---
title: "Windows SmartScreen blocks the installer"
description: "Verify the download source and open an independently distributed Stellaris Companion release."
---

> Stellaris Companion documentation
> Complete index: https://galacticfilingcabinet.com/llms.txt

# Windows SmartScreen blocks the installer

Windows may warn about a new or independently distributed application before it has built download reputation.

## Verify before continuing

1. Confirm that the installer came from the [official latest release](https://github.com/gitmaan/stellaris-companion/releases/latest) or this site's download button.
2. Check that the filename and version match the release notes.
3. Scan the file with your normal security tools.
4. In the SmartScreen dialog, open the additional information only after those checks.

If the file came from a mirror, unsolicited message, or unfamiliar domain, stop and download it again from the official release.

Security prompts and exact button labels can differ across Windows versions. The project should never ask you to disable antivirus protection globally.

Source: https://galacticfilingcabinet.com/docs/troubleshooting/windows-smartscreen/index.mdx