Security Policy Errors

How to Enable EDR in Block Mode in Microsoft 365 Defender

Tauseeq MagsiTauseeq Magsi Oct 14, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to locate and enable the Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) in block mode setting within Microsoft 365 Defender.

How to Enable EDR in Block Mode in Microsoft 365 Defender
Product
Microsoft 365 Defender
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Configuring advanced endpoint security policies in the Microsoft 365 Defender portal.
Observed behavior
The user is trying to turn on EDR in block mode but may find the option missing due to lacking administrator permissions or unsupported enterprise licenses.
Before you start

Ensure you are signed into the Microsoft 365 Defender portal with an account that has sufficient administrative privileges to modify endpoint settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Turn on EDR in Block Mode via Defender Settings

Navigate through the Microsoft 365 Defender portal settings to locate and activate the advanced feature for EDR block mode.

Enabling this feature provides an additional layer of protection by allowing Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to automatically block malicious artifacts, even if Microsoft Defender Antivirus is not the primary antivirus software.

1
Sign in to the Portal

Sign in to the Microsoft 365 Defender portal using your global administrator or security administrator credentials.

2
Navigate to Endpoints

In the left-hand navigation pane, scroll down and click on 'Settings', then select 'Endpoints'.

3
Access General Settings

Under the Endpoints menu, click on 'General' to expand the configuration options.

4
Enable the Feature

Select 'Advanced features'. Scroll down to find 'Enable EDR in block mode' and toggle the switch to turn it on, then save your changes.

Turn on EDR in Block Mode via Defender Settings
Option Not Visible: If you cannot see the 'Advanced features' tab or the EDR option, your account might not have the correct permissions, or your tenant might be missing the required licenses.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 'Enable EDR in block mode' option missing in my settings?

The option is usually missing because your account lacks the necessary Security Administrator or Global Administrator permissions, or your organization's tenant does not have the required E5 tier licensing.

Which licenses are required to use EDR in block mode?

Supported licenses include Windows 10 Enterprise E5, Microsoft 365 E5, or the Microsoft 365 E5 Security add-on attached to a Microsoft 365 E3 subscription.

Does EDR in block mode replace my third-party antivirus?

No, EDR in block mode is designed to work alongside non-Microsoft antivirus solutions. It acts as an additional layer of defense that allows Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to block malicious artifacts detected in the background.