Windows 11 "Smart App Control Blocked an App": Fixing Blocked Diagnostic Software (J2534 Toolbox, Techline Connect, ODIS, JLR)
Why Windows 11 can block your diagnostic software or installer, and how to turn Smart App Control off.
What Smart App Control Does
Windows 11 includes a security feature called Smart App Control. It blocks apps it does not recognize, and diagnostic software, drivers, and installers are often not recognized. It can be turned on by a Windows update, even on a computer that has worked for months.
Symptoms
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Opening J2534 Toolbox, Techline Connect, or another diagnostic program shows "Smart App Control blocked an app that may be unsafe."
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A GM Techline Connect or AEZ Flasher 3 tool will not open after a Windows update.
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A JLR or ODIS installer stops, or will not connect to the vehicle, because Windows blocks it.
How to Turn Smart App Control Off
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Open Windows Security.
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Select App & browser control.
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Select Smart App Control settings.
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Choose Off.
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Restart the program or installer and try again.
Turn It Off Before Installing-
Turn Smart App Control off before installing JLR, ODIS, GM, or other diagnostic software, along with any antivirus or firewall steps in the install guide for that brand. Turning it off after a failed install is harder to untangle.
If It Is Already Off-
If Smart App Control is already off and the program is still blocked, the cause is something else. Check the troubleshooting article for your brand, or contact support.