Windows Security Service Started and then Stopped in Windows 11

After installing the Windows 11 22H2 update, the Windows Security dialog may not launch. It may show a blank page, as shown below:

Also, when you attempt to start the Windows Security Service (“SecurityHealthService“) using the Services MMC console, the following error occurs:

The Windows Security Service service on Local Computer started and then stopped. Some services stop automatically if they are not in use by other services or programs.

The system repeatedly tries to install the KB5007651 update “Update for Windows Security platform antimalware platform – KB5007651 (Version 1.0.2303.28002)”, as seen on the Windows Update history page.

Cause

The above issues occur if the registry points to an old or non-existent path for the Security Health core files. As a result, the Security Health service tries to load outdated modules and fails to start.

Solution

To resolve the Windows Security app, Windows Security Service (“SecurityHealthService“) startup error, and the KB5007651 repeated installation problem, follow these steps:

1. Download AdvancedRun from Nirsoft.net and run it.
2. Launch the Registry Editor c:\windows\regedit.exe as TrustedInstaller (using the AdvancedRun utility).
3. Close AdvancedRun.
4. In the Registry Editor window, go to the following branch:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows Security Health\Platform

5. Inspect the path mentioned for the CoreLocation value. It should point to the latest Windows Security platform folder.
   To know the latest Windows Security platform folder name, open the folder C:\Windows\System32\SecurityHealth and note the highest version numbered subfolder — e.g., 1.0.2303.28002-0.

   

   Assuming 1.0.2303.28002-0 is the latest version installed, set the value data for CoreLocation as follows:

   \\?\C:\Windows\System32\SecurityHealth\1.0.2303.28002-0

   

6. Exit the Registry Editor.
7. Restart the computer. Important: Shutdown and then powering on will not help. You must use the “Restart” option.

Note that the above fix is especially applicable for Windows 11 systems that have been upgraded to version 22H2.