Cannot Open Trend Micro Security on Windows: How-To-Fix

1. Press Windows + R to open Run window.
2. Type supporttool.exe then click OK.
3. If Windows asks "Do you want to allow this app to make changes?" click Yes.
4. In Trend Micro Diagnostic Tool, go to the "(C) Uninstall" tab.


5. Click "5. Stop all components" and wait until the Trend Micro icon disappears from the system tray.


6. Wait for 10-15 seconds then click "4. Start all components" to restart the program.

7. Try opening Trend Micro again.

1. Press Windows + R to open Run window.
2. Type %programdata% then click OK.
3. Open the newest folder (the one with the most recent date).
4. Open the SupportTool folder and double-click supporttool.exe
5. Repeat Steps 4-7 from Method 1.

Helpful Tip: After restarting Trend Micro components, try launching Trend Micro shortcut icon from your desktop screen or Windows Start menu. If it still doesn't open, contact Trend Micro Support.

What are "overlays"?

Overlays are small windows or pop-ups that appear on top of other apps while you are using your computer. They usually come from apps running in the background and may show notifications, quick controls, messages, or status updates. In some cases, these on-screen elements can block or prevent other apps—like the Trend Micro app—from opening properly.

To fix the issue, follow the steps below:

1. Check for applications running in the background that may block the Trend Micro app
   1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
   2. Look for apps running that show pop-ups, floating windows, or on-screen notifications while running in the background.
   3. Select the app and click End Task to close it.
2. Restart the Trend Micro app
   • After closing these apps, try opening the Trend Micro app again.
3. Restart your computer if the issue continues.