Seeing the error “Failed to start process for this game: An Application Control policy has blocked this file” can be annoying. 😤 This issue usually appears on Windows 11 or Windows 10 while launching games or apps. Fortunately, several proven fixes can help you resolve it quickly. 🛠️✨
Why This Application Control Policy Error Appears ⚠️
This error usually occurs due to Windows security restrictions. Application Control policies block files that seem unsafe. Sometimes, third-party antivirus tools also cause conflicts. Additionally, corrupted system files may trigger this issue. Understanding the cause makes fixing it much easier. ✅
Run the Game as Administrator 🧑💻
Running the game with admin rights often bypasses restrictions.
- Right-click the game executable file.
- Select Run as administrator.
- Click Yes when prompted.
This gives the app required permissions and often fixes the error instantly. ✔️
Disable Smart App Control or Application Control 🔐
Windows 11 includes Smart App Control, which can block games.
- Open Windows Security.
- Go to App & browser control.
- Click Smart App Control settings.
- Turn it Off temporarily.
Restart your PC and try launching the game again. 🔄
Allow the Game Through Windows Security 🛡️
Blocked files can be manually allowed.
- Open Windows Security.
- Select Virus & threat protection.
- Go to Protection history.
- Find the blocked game file.
- Click Allow on device.
This prevents Windows from blocking the file again. ✅
Add the Game Folder to Exclusions 📂
Excluding the game folder reduces false positives.
- Open Windows Security.
- Go to Virus & threat protection > Manage settings.
- Scroll to Exclusions.
- Click Add or remove exclusions.
- Add the game installation folder.
This step ensures smooth game launches. 🎮✨
Verify Game Files 🔄
Corrupted or missing files often cause policy blocks.
Steam
- Right-click the game.
- Select Properties > Installed Files.
- Click Verify integrity of game files.
Epic Games
- Open Library.
- Click the three dots near the game.
- Select Verify.
This replaces broken files automatically. ✔️
Temporarily Disable Third-Party Antivirus 🚫🦠
Some antivirus programs block game executables.
- Disable antivirus protection briefly.
- Launch the game.
- Re-enable protection afterward.
If this fixes the issue, add the game to antivirus exclusions. 🔐
Check Group Policy Editor (Advanced Users) ⚙️
Application Control policies may be enforced system-wide.
- Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
- Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings.
- Open Application Control Policies.
- Disable unnecessary rules.
Restart your PC after making changes. 🔁
Use Command Prompt to Repair System Files 🖥️
Corrupted Windows files can trigger security errors.
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type:
sfc /scannow - Press Enter and wait for completion.
Restart your system and try again. 🛠️
Reinstall the Game 🔁
If nothing works, reinstalling is the best option.
- Uninstall the game completely.
- Restart your PC.
- Download and reinstall the game from the official launcher.
Fresh files often bypass policy errors. 🎯
Conclusion ✅
The “Failed to start process for this game: An Application Control policy has blocked this file” error looks serious but is easy to fix. Start with admin access and security settings. Then verify files and check antivirus conflicts.
After applying these fixes, your game should launch normally without interruptions.
