Microsoft has rolled out the Smart App Control (SAC) feature in Windows 11, incorporating a zero-trust security approach that effectively blocks untrusted software from executing on the system. SAC leverages advanced machine learning algorithms and cloud-based data analytics to proactively intercept and thwart potentially harmful applications before they can launch. This not only minimizes the consumption of system resources but also optimizes overall performance.

By default, this feature is activated solely on fresh installations of Windows 11 22H2 or subsequent updates. Once deactivated, it cannot be reactivated without significant system modifications. During the evaluation phase, SAC meticulously analyzes the user's application usage habits to ascertain its compatibility for full activation. Should the evaluation reveal no adverse impact on daily operations, SAC will automatically activate; conversely, if any hindrance is detected, it will deactivate itself.

Users retain the flexibility to manually toggle SAC on or off via the App & Browser Control settings within Windows Security. Alternatively, they can opt to force-activate it by adjusting the registry settings. Nonetheless, for the vast majority of users, it is advisable to maintain SAC in an enabled state to bolster system security.