Lost internet connectivity using VPN in Windows Defender Exploit Guard - Network Protection

This article provides a solution to an error that occurs when you use the Network Protection feature in Windows Defender Exploit Guard in Audit or Block mode and a virtual private network (VPN).

Applies to:   Windows 10 - all editions
Original KB number:   4560203

Symptoms

When using the Network Protection feature in Windows Defender Exploit Guard in Audit or Block mode and a virtual private network (VPN), you lose network connectivity and receive the General Failure error message when pinging an IP address.

Cause

This issue occurs because the current (4.12.x.x) antimalware platform update supporting the Network Protection feature is missing.

Solution

Install the latest (4.18.x.x) antimalware platform update as described here:

• Update for Windows Defender antimalware platform.
• Manage Windows Defender Antivirus updates and apply baselines.
• SCCM-Endpoint Protection: Enabling "Platform Update" for Microsoft Defender AV via SCCM ADR (Part 4).

Workaround

Set the following Group Policy to Not Configured:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows components > Windows Defender Antivirus > Windows Defender Exploit Guard > Network protection > Prevent users and apps from accessing dangerous websites