Windows 11's Smart App Control is better than traditional antivirus software, says Microsoft

Microsoft recently shared a surprising reason to consider a clean install of Windows 11 — it could make your PC faster. In a recent blog post, the company explains how a built-in security feature, Smart App Control, is only available on clean Windows 11 installations and may perform better than traditional antivirus software.

For the uninitiated, Smart App Control was introduced with Windows 11 version 22H2. It works by blocking potentially harmful apps before they run, using Microsoft’s cloud-powered AI models. But what makes it stand out, according to the company, is how it handles performance.

Smart App Control uses a proactive approach to detect threats

Unlike typical antivirus tools that scan constantly in the background, Smart App Control doesn’t need to check every file as you work. That means fewer interruptions and less CPU usage, especially during gaming or intensive tasks. Microsoft says this design leads to a lighter, faster system overall, without sacrificing protection.

Also read: How to Turn Smart App Control On or Off

The feature also adapts over time. By analyzing behavior and patterns instead of relying only on known virus signatures, it can block threats that more reactive antivirus apps might miss. Microsoft positions it as a smarter approach that fits directly into the OS, with no need for extra software.

But here’s the key detail: it only works if you’ve clean-installed Windows 11. Devices upgraded from earlier versions won’t get Smart App Control unless wiped and reinstalled. Microsoft clearly sees this as a reason to start fresh, not just for security, but for better performance too.