Alex Ruben
How To Resolve “Operation Did Not Complete Successfully Because the File Contains a Virus” Error
If you’ve ever tried to run a game installer or software maybe from those sketchy repack sources like FitGirl or DODI, and got hit with that annoying “Operation did not complete because the file contains a virus” message, you know how frustrating it can be. It’s Windows Defender’s way of screaming, “Hey, this might be malware!” even if you’re pretty sure it’s safe. Sometimes, though, it’s just a false positive. So, if you just want to get past that and install your stuff without so much paranoia, here’s a process that can help. No guarantees—it’s kind of finicky, and sometimes Windows just has to make everything harder than it should be. But this method has worked on a couple of setups I tried, so maybe it’ll help you too.
How to Fix ‘Virus Detected’ Blocking Your Software Install
Access the Windows Security Settings
This is step one, because if you can’t get into Windows Security, everything else is moot. Usually, you’ll want to disable real-time scanning temporarily. Here’s how:
- Hit the Windows key or click Start.
- Type Windows Security or just search for it, then click on the app.
Alternatively, you can get there from Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security.
Navigate to Virus & Threat Protection & Manage Settings
This menu is where Windows Defender lets you toggle protection features. Why is this helpful? Because temporarily turning off some settings can prevent the false alarms from triggering while you install your file. On some machines, this step might have weird delays or need a restart, so be mindful.
- Click on Virus & threat protection.
- Click on Manage settings (under Virus & threat protection settings).
Disable Real-Time Protection
This is the main part — turning off real-time scanning. It kind of sucks having to disable your security, but if you’re sure the file is safe (and you downloaded it from a trusted source, double-check that), it’s worth a shot. Remember, Windows likes to auto-reenable this after some time or after a reboot, so plan accordingly.
- Switch the toggle off for Real-time protection.
- If prompted, confirm with administrator rights or give permission.
Check the Protection History & Quarantine List
This part is kinda revealing. Sometimes, Windows quarantines the file, thinking it’s malicious — but it’s not. You want to see if your installer got caught, so:
- In the Virus & threat protection menu, click on Protection history.
- Look for your setup or installer file. If it’s marked as quarantined or even suspicious, good chance that’s your culprit.
Restore the Quarantined File
If you spot your installer in quarantine, you can try to restore it — but beware, only do this if you’re 100% sure it’s safe. In many cases, this will allow you to run the installer, bypassing the false positive.
- Click on the file’s entry to see details.
- Choose Restore if you trust the source.
- Confirm any prompts. If Windows needs you to turn off some warnings again, do that.
Re-enable Real-Time Protection
Because of course, Windows has to make us do this twice. Once you’ve restored the file, turn the real-time protection back on. Default position in most cases.
- Return to Manage settings.
- Switch Real-time protection onto On.
Attempt to Run the Installer Again
This is the moment of truth. Now that the file’s restored and protections are back up, try running the installer again. If you see “More info” or “Run anyway” options, click through that. Windows will try to be the hero, but if your source is sketchy, there’s always a risk.
- Double-click the setup file.
- If a warning pops up, click More info then Run anyway.
- Proceed with the installation as usual.
Extra Tips & Common Problems
A few things to keep in mind: because false positives are common, always try to get your files from reputable sites. Also, keep Windows and your antivirus (like Defender) updated, since updates can fix these detection issues. Just remember, disabling security features should be a temporary thing for installing or troubleshooting, then turn them back on. If your antivirus keeps flagging the same files, you might want to add exclusions in Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Viruss & threat protection > Exclusions.
Wrap-up / Final Thoughts
This whole process is kinda annoying, especially because Windows Defender just loves to throw up false alarms. But if you’re careful and confident about the source, temporarily disabling protections and restoring files can get your installation moving. Sometimes it’s just a matter of trial and error, and other times it’s a matter of patience—Windows can be slow to re-enable protections or update security logs. Still, it’s better than banging your head against the wall for hours.
Summary
- Access Windows Security.
- Temporarily disable Real-time protection.
- Check the Protection history for quarantined files.
- Restore the installer if it’s quarantined.
- Re-enable real-time protection.
- Run the installer again with the protections on.
Fingers crossed this helps
Honestly, this isn’t the perfect fix, but it’s the quickest way I found to get past those stupid false positives. If this gets one update moving, mission accomplished. Good luck, and don’t forget to turn your antivirus back on afterward!