Windows Defender

Fix Windows security warnings.


"Windows protected your PC"

This blue popup appears for new apps. It's normal.

How to Continue

  1. Click More info
  2. Click Run anyway
  3. 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

  1. Click the Start menu and type "Windows Security"
  2. Open Windows Security
  3. Click Virus & threat protection
  4. Click Protection history
  5. Find Tessel in the list
  6. Click ActionsAllow

Add an Exclusion (Prevents Future Issues)

  1. Open Windows Security
  2. Click Virus & threat protection
  3. Click Manage settings (under Virus & threat protection settings)
  4. Scroll down to Exclusions
  5. Click Add or remove exclusions
  6. Click Add an exclusionFolder
  7. Select: C:\Program Files\Tessel\

Firewall Popup

If you use AI transforms, Windows might ask about network access.

What to Do

  1. Check both Private and Public networks
  2. Click Allow access

If You Already Clicked Block

  1. Open Windows Security
  2. Click Firewall & network protection
  3. Click Allow an app through firewall
  4. Click Change settings
  5. Find Tessel and check both boxes
  6. Click OK

Shortcuts Not Working?

Try Running as Administrator

  1. Find Tessel in the Start menu
  2. Right-click it
  3. Click Run as administrator
  4. Click Yes

If this fixes it, you can make it permanent:

  1. Right-click the Tessel shortcut
  2. Click Properties
  3. Go to Compatibility tab
  4. Check Run this program as an administrator
  5. Click OK

Using Other Antivirus?

If you have Norton, McAfee, Avast, etc.:

  1. Open your antivirus software
  2. Find the "whitelist" or "exceptions" setting
  3. Add Tessel to the allowed list
  4. Add the folder: C:\Program Files\Tessel\

Tessel Disappeared After Windows Update

Windows updates can reset security settings.

What to Do

  1. Reinstall Tessel
  2. Re-add any exclusions you set up
  3. 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