2 Ways to Show Windows Defender on Taskbar in Windows 10

By Jennifer | Last Updated August 20, 2025

Want quick access to your antivirus status from the taskbar? Below are two easy ways to show the Windows Defender (Windows Security) icon on your taskbar or system tray for peace of mind and handy access.

• Way 1: Pin it to taskbar.
• Way 2: Show it on taskbar via Registry Editor.

Way 1: Pin it to taskbar.

Step 1: Open Start Menu.

Step 2: Choose All apps, tap Windows System, right-click Windows Defender and select Pin to taskbar on the list.

Way 2: Show it on taskbar via Registry Editor.

Step 1: Turn on Registry Editor.

Step 2: Open HKEY_CURRENT_USER/SOFTWARE/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Run.

Step 3: Right-click blank area on the right, point at New and choose String Value in the menu.

Step 4: Type Windows Defender to name the value.

Step 5: Double-tap Windows Defender, enter "c:\program files\windows defender\msascui.exe"-runkey and hit OK in the Edit String window.

Step 6: Turn off Registry Editor.

Step 7: Restart the computer or sign out.

What to do if windows defender icon not showing in taskbar

If the SecurityHealthSystray.exe isn't launched automatically, your Windows Defender (Windows Security) icon would be missing from the taskbar or system tray. The following method can help you make it show up automatically.

Step 1: Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and press Enter to open your startup folder.

Step 2: Right-click inside the folder, choose New and then the Shortcut option.

Step 3: Enter the target: C:\Windows\System32\SecurityHealthSystray.exe .

Step 4: Name it e.g., Windows Security Tray.

Step 5: Click Finish. Restart your computer. The icon should now consistently appear in the system tray.

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• How to Open and Use Windows Defender in Windows 8/10/11
• 2 Ways to Unpin Programs from Taskbar in Windows 10
• Create Shortcut of Windows Firewall with Advanced Security on Desktop
• Add Settings to Taskbar in Windows 10