“Virus Scan Failed” on every download attempt

[GeorgiaLor06]

Hi, I use an hp laptop 14 with windows 11. whenever I try to download a file, it says “virus scan failed.” I’ve disabled and uninstalled my anti virus, restarted my laptop, rearranged browser settings, ran the sfc/ scannow command, adjusted my registry editor, adjusted internet options, made sure my internet/wireless connection is good, and it is still not letting me download a single thing, after basically every common resolution method listed on the internet. Someone please help!! (and i would attempt to use the malwarebytes or mcafee (the antivirus i use) customer uninstaller.exe, but i have to download them and thats the problem! Any help is appreciated, i need to be able to download files! 

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @GeorgiaLor06,

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for reaching out!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

I understand your HP Laptop 14 with Windows 11 shows a “Virus Scan Failed” error on every download attempt, and previous attempts to fix it (disabling antivirus, registry edits, SFC scan, browser tweaks) haven’t worked. Let’s go through a few steps to troubleshoot this.

1. Check Windows Security/Defender

Open Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection.

Temporarily turn off real-time protection.

Try downloading a small file to see if the error persists.

If it works, the issue may be Windows Defender or conflicting antivirus.

2. Remove Conflicting Antivirus Remnants

Even after uninstalling antivirus software, remnants can block downloads.

Use the official uninstall tool for your antivirus:

McAfee: MCPR Tool

Malwarebytes: MB-Clean Tool

If you cannot download the tools directly, try using another PC to download the uninstall tool onto a USB and run it on your HP laptop.

3. Reset Browser and Network Settings

Open Command Prompt as Admin:

netsh winsock reset 

ipconfig /flushdns

Restart the laptop.

Test downloads using another browser (Edge, Chrome, or Firefox).

4. Check for Windows Update

Go to Settings > Windows Update and ensure your system is fully updated.

Outdated security components can cause download and virus scan errors.

5. Scan for Corrupt System Files

You already ran sfc /scannow, but also try: 

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth 

Restart and test downloads again.

6. Create a Temporary Admin User

Create a new local administrator account and log in.

Try downloading files from that account; this can bypass profile-specific corruption.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,