How to add a Trusted File in McAfee to prevent the antivirus software quarantining it
Here’s how to add a trusted file (i.e., exclude it from scans) in McAfee — the options vary slightly depending on the version you’re using:
Adding a Trusted File to McAfee Exclusions (for most consumer versions)
- Open your McAfee app.
- Go to My Protection (often visible on the left-hand menu).
- Click on Real-Time Scanning.
- Find the Excluded Files section and click Add file.
- Browse to and select the file you want to trust. Click OK (or Add), then confirm or save the changes.
(McAfee)
For McAfee VirusScan Enterprise (older business versions):
- Open the VirusScan Console.
- Select On-Access Scanner.
- Click Properties, then go to Exclusions.
- Choose Exclude by File Name/Location.
- Enter or browse to the file you want to trust and set options like “On Read” or “On Write” as needed.
- Click OK to apply.
(Chron – Small Business)
From the firewall perspective (optional)
If you also need the file (or its associated program) to communicate freely over the internet:
- From the McAfee home screen, click Firewall, then Settings.
- Go to Program Permissions.
- Add the program if it’s not listed, then set its access to Full.
(McAfee)
Notes from Users & Troubleshooting
- Some files may automatically be removed from the exclusion list if they change—common with executable files that get updated often (such as during development).
(Reddit)
One user wrote:
“Files are removed from the excluded list if they change.”
(Reddit)
If your file (e.g., an executable you’re actively modifying) keeps reverting to being scanned or blocked, this may explain it.
Quick Summary Table
| McAfee Version | Steps to Exclude / Trust File |
| McAfee (consumer, e.g., LiveSafe) | My Protection → Real-Time Scanning → Excluded Files → Add file |
| McAfee VirusScan Enterprise | VirusScan Console → On-Access Scanner → Properties → Exclusions → Add |
| Firewall allowances | Firewall → Settings → Program Permissions → Add → Set to Full |