Windows Defender
Fix Windows security warnings.
"Windows protected your PC"
This blue popup appears for new apps. It's normal.
How to Continue
- Click More info
- Click Run anyway
- Continue with installation
Tessel is safe - this warning just means Microsoft hasn't seen it many times yet.
Windows Defender Blocks Tessel
Sometimes Defender might quarantine Tessel.
How to Allow It
- Click the Start menu and type "Windows Security"
- Open Windows Security
- Click Virus & threat protection
- Click Protection history
- Find Tessel in the list
- Click Actions → Allow
Add an Exclusion (Prevents Future Issues)
- Open Windows Security
- Click Virus & threat protection
- Click Manage settings (under Virus & threat protection settings)
- Scroll down to Exclusions
- Click Add or remove exclusions
- Click Add an exclusion → Folder
- Select:
C:\Program Files\Tessel\
Firewall Popup
If you use AI transforms, Windows might ask about network access.
What to Do
- Check both Private and Public networks
- Click Allow access
If You Already Clicked Block
- Open Windows Security
- Click Firewall & network protection
- Click Allow an app through firewall
- Click Change settings
- Find Tessel and check both boxes
- Click OK
Shortcuts Not Working?
Try Running as Administrator
- Find Tessel in the Start menu
- Right-click it
- Click Run as administrator
- Click Yes
If this fixes it, you can make it permanent:
- Right-click the Tessel shortcut
- Click Properties
- Go to Compatibility tab
- Check Run this program as an administrator
- Click OK
Using Other Antivirus?
If you have Norton, McAfee, Avast, etc.:
- Open your antivirus software
- Find the "whitelist" or "exceptions" setting
- Add Tessel to the allowed list
- Add the folder:
C:\Program Files\Tessel\
Tessel Disappeared After Windows Update
Windows updates can reset security settings.
What to Do
- Reinstall Tessel
- Re-add any exclusions you set up
- Re-enable "Start on login" in Tessel Settings
Still Having Issues?
Email support@gettessel.com with:
- Your Windows version (type "winver" in Start menu to check)
- What antivirus you use
- Any error messages you see