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Have you ever wondered how to disable Windows Security and connect a smart card? Well, the process may be simpler than you think. By following a few steps, you can effectively disable Windows Security and connect your smart card seamlessly. Let’s explore how.
When it comes to disabling Windows Security and connecting a smart card, it’s important to understand the background and significance of this process. Smart cards are secure devices that store sensitive data and are widely used in various industries, such as banking, government, and healthcare. Disabling Windows Security allows you to bypass certain authentication requirements and directly connect your smart card to your device, enhancing convenience and efficiency. With the increasing reliance on smart card technology, knowing how to disable Windows Security and connect a smart card can greatly simplify your workflow.
To disable Windows Security Connect a Smart Card, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X, and then select «Settings» from the menu.
- Click on «Accounts» and then select «Sign-in options.»
- Under the «Windows Hello» section, locate the «Use your sign-in info to automatically finish setting up your device after an update» option and toggle it off.
- Scroll down to the «Security key» section and toggle off the «Windows Security Connect a Smart Card» option.
- Close the settings window.
Introduction
Windows Security is an essential component of the Windows operating system that provides protection against various types of threats, such as viruses, malware, and unauthorized access. One of the security features offered by Windows is the ability to connect a smart card for authentication purposes. A smart card is a small portable device that contains embedded chips capable of storing data and performing cryptographic operations. While connecting a smart card adds an additional layer of security, there may be situations where disabling the Windows Security feature or disconnecting the smart card is necessary. In this article, we will explore how to disable Windows Security and disconnect a smart card effectively.
Disabling Windows Security Connect a Smart Card
To disable the Windows Security feature and disconnect a smart card, follow the steps below:
- Step 1: Open the Windows Security application.
- Step 2: Navigate to the «Settings» option.
- Step 3: Click on «Devices» or «Security Devices» depending on your Windows version.
- Step 4: Locate the smart card device from the list of connected devices.
- Step 5: Right-click on the smart card device and select the «Disable» or «Disconnect» option.
- Step 6: Confirm the action if prompted.
By following these steps, you will be able to disable the Windows Security feature and disconnect the smart card effectively. It’s important to note that disabling Windows Security will temporarily stop the authentication using a smart card, so make sure to enable it again when required.
Step 1: Open the Windows Security application
The first step is to open the Windows Security application on your computer. You can do this by searching for «Windows Security» in the Start menu or by clicking on the Windows Security icon in the system tray.
If you are using a newer version of Windows, such as Windows 10, you can also access the Windows Security application by going to the Settings menu and clicking on «Update & Security» or «Windows Security.»
Once you have opened the Windows Security application, you will see a dashboard with various security options.
Step 2: Navigate to the «Settings» option
In the Windows Security application, you need to locate the «Settings» option. This option is usually located at the bottom left corner of the dashboard, denoted by a gear or cogwheel icon.
Clicking on the «Settings» option will open a new window with various configuration options for the Windows Security feature.
Step 3: Click on «Devices» or «Security Devices»
In the «Settings» window, you will find different categories or sections related to Windows Security. Look for options such as «Devices» or «Security Devices» and click on them to access the device management settings.
Note: The naming and organization of settings may vary slightly depending on your Windows version.
Step 4: Locate the smart card device
Once you are in the device management settings, you will see a list of connected devices. Look for the smart card device from this list.
The smart card device may be labeled as «Smart Card,» «Smart Card Reader,» or with the specific brand or model name of the device.
Step 5: Right-click on the smart card device
Once you have located the smart card device, right-click on it to open the context menu.
In the context menu, you will see various options related to the smart card device.
If you want to disable the smart card device temporarily, you can select the «Disable» option. If you want to permanently disconnect the smart card device from the system, you can select the «Disconnect» option.
Step 6: Confirm the action
After selecting the desired option (Disable or Disconnect), you may be prompted to confirm the action.
Read the confirmation message carefully and click on the appropriate button to confirm the action.
Enabling Windows Security and Reconnecting a Smart Card
If you have previously disabled Windows Security or disconnected a smart card and now want to enable it again or reconnect the smart card, follow the steps below:
- Step 1: Open the Windows Security application.
- Step 2: Navigate to the «Settings» option.
- Step 3: Click on «Devices» or «Security Devices» depending on your Windows version.
- Step 4: Locate the disabled or disconnected smart card device from the list.
- Step 5: Right-click on the smart card device and select the «Enable» or «Connect» option.
- Step 6: Confirm the action if prompted.
By following these steps, you will be able to enable Windows Security and reconnect a previously disabled or disconnected smart card.
Step 1: Open the Windows Security application
Open the Windows Security application using the same method mentioned earlier.
Make sure you have administrative privileges on the computer to perform this action.
Step 2: Navigate to the «Settings» option
Locate and click on the «Settings» option in the Windows Security application.
Step 3: Click on «Devices» or «Security Devices»
In the «Settings» window, click on the «Devices» or «Security Devices» option to access the device management settings.
Step 4: Locate the disabled or disconnected smart card device
Look for the previously disabled or disconnected smart card device from the list of connected devices.
The device may be labeled with a disabled status or a disconnected status.
Step 5: Right-click on the smart card device
Right-click on the previously disabled or disconnected smart card device to open the context menu.
In the context menu, select the «Enable» or «Connect» option to enable Windows Security and reconnect the smart card device.
Step 6: Confirm the action
If prompted, read the confirmation message and click on the appropriate button to confirm the action.
Once you have completed these steps, Windows Security will be enabled again, and the smart card device will be reconnected.
Windows Security is a crucial component of the Windows operating system, providing users with a robust layer of protection against various threats. However, there may be instances where disabling Windows Security or disconnecting a smart card is necessary. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily disable Windows Security and disconnect a smart card, as well as enable Windows Security and reconnect a previously disabled or disconnected smart card. Always exercise caution when making changes to your system’s security settings and ensure that you are aware of the potential implications.
Guide to Disable Windows Security Connect a Smart Card
If you want to disable the Windows security feature that prompts you to connect a smart card, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
- Type «gpedit.msc» and hit Enter. This will open the Local Group Policy Editor.
- In the left pane of the Local Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following path:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Smart Card. - In the right pane, double-click on «Turn off Smart Card Plug and Play service».
- Select the «Enabled» option and click Apply, then OK.
- Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
- After restarting, the Windows security feature that prompts you to connect a smart card will be disabled.
Note: The above steps are applicable for Windows operating systems with Group Policy support. If your version of Windows does not have the Local Group Policy Editor, you may need to explore alternative methods.
Key Takeaways: How to Disable Windows Security Connect a Smart Card
- Windows Security can be disabled to disconnect a smart card.
- Open the Windows Security app from the Start menu.
- Select the «Manage smart cards» option.
- Click on the «Disconnect» button next to the smart card device.
- You may need administrative privileges to disable Windows Security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about disabling Windows security and connecting a smart card:
1. How can I disable Windows security when using a smart card?
If you want to disable Windows security when using a smart card, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Windows search bar.
Step 2: In the Control Panel, navigate to the «System and Security» section and click on «Windows Defender Firewall.»
Step 3: In the Windows Defender Firewall settings, click on «Advanced settings» on the left-hand side.
Step 4: In the Advanced settings window, click on «Windows Firewall Properties.»
Step 5: In the Windows Firewall Properties, go to the «Domain Profile» tab and select «Off» under «Firewall State.»
Step 6: Repeat Step 5 for the «Private Profile» and «Public Profile» tabs.
Step 7: Click «Apply» and then «OK» to save the changes.
Please note that disabling Windows security should be done with caution, as it can leave your computer vulnerable to threats.
2. What should I do if I can’t connect my smart card to Windows?
If you’re unable to connect your smart card to Windows, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:
Step 1: Ensure that the smart card reader is properly connected to your computer.
Step 2: Check if the smart card reader driver is installed. You can do this by going to the Device Manager and looking for the smart card reader under the «Smart card readers» category. If there’s a yellow exclamation mark or a question mark next to it, the driver might be missing or outdated.
Step 3: If the driver is missing or outdated, you can try updating it by right-clicking on the smart card reader and selecting «Update driver.» You can also visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver.
Step 4: Restart your computer and try connecting the smart card again.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s recommended to contact the manufacturer or seek professional assistance.
3. Can I disable Windows security for specific applications while using a smart card?
Yes, it is possible to disable Windows security for specific applications while using a smart card. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open the Control Panel and go to «System and Security.»
Step 2: Click on «Windows Defender Firewall» and then «Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.»
Step 3: Click on «Change settings» and then «Allow another app.»
Step 4: Browse for the application or executable file that you want to exclude from Windows security. Select it and click «Add.»
Step 5: Make sure the application is checked in the list of allowed apps and features.
Step 6: Click «OK» to save the changes.
Please note that while disabling Windows security for specific applications may provide convenience, it can also increase the risk of malware or unauthorized access. Proceed with caution and only exclude trusted applications.
4. Is it possible to enable Windows security again after disabling it for a smart card?
Yes, you can enable Windows security again after disabling it for a smart card. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Control Panel and go to «System and Security.»
Step
To disable Windows Security Connect a Smart Card feature, follow these steps:
First, open the Windows Security settings by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the Settings cog icon. Then, click on the «Update & Security» option and navigate to the «Windows Security» tab. Here, select the «Device security» option and click on the «Advanced security settings» link.
Next, you will see the «Windows Security» window. Scroll down and find the «Smart Card Removal Policy» section. Click on the «Disable» button to turn off the smart card authentication feature. Finally, restart your computer to apply the changes.
By following these steps, you can easily disable the Windows Security Connect a Smart Card feature and no longer require a smart card for authentication.

Starting Windows in safe mode bypasses a forced smart card login.
Image Credit:
moodboard/moodboard/Getty Images
If a problem prevents you from logging in to Windows with a smart card, start your computer in safe mode and disable this security feature. Whether you log in with a physical or virtual smart card, Windows stores your settings in the Windows NT Registry. If you’re able to log in to Windows, you can disable smart card login for future sessions by editing your local group policies. Disabling the Smart Card Plug and Play service removes the option to insert a smart card when logging in.
Start Windows in Safe Mode
Step 1
Turn on your computer and hold down «F8» as Windows boots. Select «Safe Mode With Networking» from the boot menu and press «Enter.»
Step 2
Hold down the «Windows» key and press «R» to open the Run dialog. Type «Regedt32» (without quotes, here and throughout) at the prompt and press «Enter.» The Windows NT Registry Editor opens.
Step 3
Expand the file path to the smart card login key by selecting the following directories:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
Step 4
Right-click «scforeoption» and select «Modify» to edit the key’s properties. In the Value Data field, change the current value of «1» to «0» and click «OK.»
Step 5
Close Registry Editor and restart your computer in normal mode. The login screen prompts you to enter your username and password rather than insert a smart card.
Disable Smart Card Plug and Play Service
Step 1
Hold down the «Windows» key and press «R» to open the Run dialog. Type «gpedit.msc» at the prompt and press «Enter» to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
Step 2
Expand «Computer Configuration,» «Administrative Templates» and «Windows Components» in the tree browser. Double-click the «Smart Card» folder in the main window.
Step 3
Right-click «Turn On Smart Card Plug and Play Service» and select «Edit.» In the Properties dialog, select «Disabled» to turn off this service and remove the smart card option from the login screen. Click «Apply» and «OK» to save your changes.
Step 4
Close Local Group Policy Editor and restart Windows to finalize the changes.
How to Enable Smart Card Logon on Windows 10
Want to make logging into your Windows 10 computer easier and more secure? Enabling smart card logon could be the perfect solution! By following the steps below, you’ll be able to log in using a smart card, reducing the need for passwords and improving your security.
Setting up smart card logon on a Windows 10 device is a relatively simple process. The following steps will guide you through configuring your system to accept smart card credentials, ensuring that your login is more secure and efficient.
Step 1: Install the Smart Card Reader
First, connect your smart card reader to your computer.
Make sure that your smart card reader is properly installed by plugging it into a USB port. Windows 10 should automatically detect and install the necessary drivers. You might need to download specific drivers from the manufacturer’s website if automatic installation doesn’t work.
Step 2: Insert the Smart Card
Next, insert your smart card into the reader.
Ensure the smart card is inserted correctly according to the reader’s instructions. The card should have a chip facing the correct direction. Some readers have an LED indicator that lights up when the card is inserted correctly.
Step 3: Configure Smart Card Service
Go to the Windows Services to configure the Smart Card service.
Press Win + R
, type services.msc
, and press Enter. Locate the «Smart Card» service, right-click it, and select «Properties.» Set the «Startup type» to «Automatic» and then click the «Start» button if the service is not already running.
Step 4: Configure Group Policy
Now, configure the Group Policy to enable smart card logon.
Open the Group Policy Editor by pressing Win + R
, typing gpedit.msc
, and hitting Enter. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Smart Card. Enable the policy named «Allow Smart Card.» This ensures that your system will accept smart card logon.
Step 5: Add Smart Card Certificate to the User Account
Finally, add the smart card certificate to your user account.
Open the Control Panel, go to User Accounts, and find the option to manage your certificates. Import the certificate from your smart card into your user account. This certificate is needed to authenticate your smart card during logon.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be able to log in to your Windows 10 computer using your smart card. This method is not just more secure, but also convenient.
Tips for Enabling Smart Card Logon – Windows 10
- Ensure your smart card reader is compatible with Windows 10.
- Regularly update the drivers for your smart card reader.
- Keep your smart card in a safe place when not in use.
- Use a strong PIN for your smart card to enhance security.
- Check if your organization has specific policies regarding smart card use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special software for smart card logon?
Most smart card readers work with Windows 10 out of the box, but you might need specific drivers or software from the manufacturer.
Can I use any smart card for logon purposes?
The smart card must be compatible with Windows 10 and should contain the necessary certificates for authentication.
What happens if I lose my smart card?
If you lose your smart card, you should immediately report it and get a replacement. You might need to use alternative logon methods until you receive a new card.
Is smart card logon more secure than using a password?
Yes, smart card logon is generally more secure as it combines something you have (the card) with something you know (the PIN).
Can I enable smart card logon on multiple devices?
Yes, you can enable smart card logon on multiple devices, but each device needs to be configured separately.
Summary
- Install the Smart Card Reader.
- Insert the Smart Card.
- Configure Smart Card Service.
- Configure Group Policy.
- Add Smart Card Certificate to the User Account.
Conclusion
Setting up smart card logon on Windows 10 is a great way to enhance your computer’s security. By following the steps outlined above, you can make your logon process both secure and convenient. Remember, technology is here to make our lives easier, and smart cards are a perfect example of combining security with ease of use.
Make sure to follow the tips provided to maintain a secure environment, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you need it. Happy configuring!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.
Read his full bio here.
Manages access to smart cards read by your computer. If this service is stopped, your computer will be unable to read smart cards. If this service is disabled, any services that explicitly depend on it will fail to start.
Default Settings
Startup type: |
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Display name: | Smart Card | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Service name: | SCardSvr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Service type: | share | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Error control: | normal | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Group: | SmartCardGroup | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Object: | NT AUTHORITY\LocalService | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Path: | %SystemRoot%\system32\svchost.exe -k LocalServiceAndNoImpersonation | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
File: | %SystemRoot%\System32\SCardSvr.dll | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Registry key: | HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\SCardSvr | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Privileges: |
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Default Behavior
Smart Card is a Win32 service. It is disabled in all editions of Windows 10 1507, Windows 10 1511, Windows 10 1607, Windows 10 1703, Windows 10 1709. This service is starting only if the user, an application or another service starts it in all editions of Windows 10 1803, Windows 10 1809, Windows 10 1903, Windows 10 2004, Windows 10 20H2, Windows 10 21H1, Windows 10 21H2, Windows 10 22H2.
When the Smart Card service is started, it is running as NT AUTHORITY\LocalService in a shared process of svchost.exe along with other services. If Smart Card fails to start, the failure details are being recorded into Event Log. Then Windows 10 will start up and notify the user that the SCardSvr service has failed to start due to the error.
Dependencies
Smart Card cannot be started under any conditions, if the Windows Driver Foundation — User-mode Driver Framework service is disabled.
Restore Default Startup Configuration of Smart Card
Before you begin doing this, make sure that all the services on which Smart Card depends are configured by default and function properly. See the list of dependencies above.
1. Run the Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Depending on the version of your operating system, copy the commands below, paste them into the command window and press ENTER.
For Windows 10 1507 Home, Windows 10 1507 Pro, Windows 10 1507 Education, Windows 10 1507 Enterprise, Windows 10 1511 Home, Windows 10 1511 Pro, Windows 10 1511 Education, Windows 10 1511 Enterprise, Windows 10 1607 Home, Windows 10 1607 Pro, Windows 10 1607 Education, Windows 10 1607 Enterprise, Windows 10 1703 Home, Windows 10 1703 Pro, Windows 10 1703 Education, Windows 10 1703 Enterprise, Windows 10 1709 Home, Windows 10 1709 Pro, Windows 10 1709 Education, Windows 10 1709 Enterprise:
sc stop SCardSvr
sc config SCardSvr start= disabled
For Windows 10 1803 Home, Windows 10 1803 Pro, Windows 10 1803 Education, Windows 10 1803 Enterprise, Windows 10 1809 Home, Windows 10 1809 Pro, Windows 10 1809 Education, Windows 10 1809 Enterprise, Windows 10 1903 Home, Windows 10 1903 Pro, Windows 10 1903 Education, Windows 10 1903 Enterprise, Windows 10 1909 Home, Windows 10 1909 Pro, Windows 10 1909 Education, Windows 10 1909 Enterprise, Windows 10 2004 Home, Windows 10 2004 Pro, Windows 10 2004 Education, Windows 10 2004 Enterprise, Windows 10 20H2 Home, Windows 10 20H2 Pro, Windows 10 20H2 Education, Windows 10 20H2 Enterprise, Windows 10 21H1 Home, Windows 10 21H1 Pro, Windows 10 21H1 Education, Windows 10 21H1 Enterprise, Windows 10 21H2 Home, Windows 10 21H2 Pro, Windows 10 21H2 Education, Windows 10 21H2 Enterprise, Windows 10 22H2 Home, Windows 10 22H2 Pro, Windows 10 22H2 Education, Windows 10 22H2 Enterprise:
sc config SCardSvr start= demand
3. Close the command window and restart the computer.
The SCardSvr service is using the SCardSvr.dll file that is located in the C:\Windows\System32 directory. If the file is removed or corrupted, read this article to restore its original version from Windows 10 installation media.