When using Windows, you’ll notice that it comes with its own antivirus called Windows Defender (now called Windows Security and Microsoft Defender in later versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11). For some, Windows Defender is more of a hindrance than a help, and they’ll want to disable Windows Defender completely. As you’ll discover in this tutorial, disabling Windows Defender isn’t as easy as it should be. Regardless, making sure Defender goes down and stays down isn’t very tricky at all. Show
ContentWhy Not Use the Default Option?It may seem a little confusing that turning off Windows Defender permanently is trickier than it should be. After all, there’s an option within Windows to disable Defender.
Also, just as in Windows 10, turning everything off is just temporary. This is great if you just need to turn Windows Defender off for a short while but doesn’t solve the ultimate goal of turning off Windows Defender permanently. Note: if you’re already using another antivirus instead of Windows Defender, you may not see these settings at all – which is a fix in itself and will be detailed below. Fortunately, there are ways to make it so that Windows Defender doesn’t reenable itself. Keep in mind that you’ll have to make sure you do not browse the Web without a functioning antivirus active! You need to have something installed beforehand to make up for Windows Defender being turned off. You have a few options when it comes to disabling Windows Defender.
If you don’t use any of the above editions, or aren’t sure which one you’re using, don’t worry! All versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11 can turn off Windows Defender using the registry method. Just follow the steps below, and you should have your problem fixed in no time. Before you proceed with registry options, you have to disable Windows Defender Tamper Protection. This is a great feature that helps prevent another user or even a virus from disabling your built-in antivirus. Otherwise, any changes you make in the following sections will go away once you restart.
Using the Registry (Available for ALL Users)
Note: Make a backup of your registry before you make any changes. You can do this by opening the Registry Editor, then “File -> Export.” Place the copy in a safe place. If you want to clean up your registry from time to time, learn how to defragment it.
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender
If anything related to Defender is still running, add the following DWORD values in the following folder locations using the same process as above:
You may also need to create three new folders under Windows Defender. Right-click the “Windows Defender” folder and select “New -> Key.” Add three new Keys: “Signature Updates,” “Real-Time Protection,” and “Spynet.” Next, add the following DWORD values to the corresponding folders: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Signature Updates
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Real-Time Protection
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Spynet
Tip: if you’re having trouble opening Windows Security on your PC, here are some fixes. Using Local Group Policy
Use a Third-Party AntivirusYou’re not under any obligation to use what Windows comes with. While it does work surprisingly well, you can use any third-party antivirus. This is also an easy way to permanently disable Windows Defender.
Windows Defender issues might cause you to get a “This setting is managed by your administrator” error. Fortunately, we can help you solve it. Disable Periodic ScanningEven if you’ve installed another antivirus, Windows may still run periodic scans. These won’t run at the same time as your third-party antivirus, but if you want to fully disable Windows Defender, you’ll want to stop these extra scans. By default, Windows 11 turns periodic scans off when installing another antivirus, but Windows 10 doesn’t always do this.
Disable Windows Defender TasksIf Windows Defender is still trying to run, you may need to manually disable a few tasks and services.
Ever wondered if your antivirus is working properly? Learn how to test your program against real malware to get the answer. Frequently Asked QuestionsIs it safe to permanently disable Windows Defender?Yes. However, you should immediately turn on another antivirus program. Windows Defender is designed to protect you from the moment you start using Windows, but you don’t have to use it if you don’t want to. That’s why it’s a good idea to leave it running until you’re ready to install something else. Even if you’re extremely careful, odds are that you’ll encounter a virus at some point. Blocking it is much easier than trying to remove it. While you can remove it without an antivirus, it’s not easy. Can Windows Defender cause my PC to run slowly?Unless you’re running a full scan, you shouldn’t notice any real interference. In fact, Windows Defender uses fewer system resources than most antivirus apps. If your PC is running slowly, check Task Manager (Win + X and select “Task Manager”) to see what’s running and using the most resources. It could actually be a sign of a virus infection that got past Windows Defender or another antivirus app you have installed. Is it safe to run Windows Defender with another antivirus app?Yes, but you can only use the firewall and periodic scans in Windows Defender while another antivirus is active. Consider Defender a backup antivirus. Or, if something happens to your third-party antivirus, Windows Defender will immediately take over until you resolve any issues with your other antivirus. Why is Windows Defender coming back on after every restart?Ensure you turned off Tamper Protection in the Windows Defender settings. Outside of installing a third-party antivirus, anything you do to disable Windows Defender will go away after a restart if Tamper Protection is left on. It’s also possible you don’t have admin privileges to change these settings. Image credit: Unsplash. All screenshots by Crystal Crowder. Crystal Crowder Crystal Crowder has spent over 15 years working in the tech industry, first as an IT technician and then as a writer. She works to help teach others how to get the most from their devices, systems, and apps. She stays on top of the latest trends and is always finding solutions to common tech problems. Subscribe to our newsletter! Our latest tutorials delivered straight to your inbox What will happen if Windows Defender is off?Turning off Microsoft Defender Firewall could make your device (and network, if you have one) more vulnerable to unauthorized access. If there's an app you need to use that's being blocked, you can allow it through the firewall, instead of turning the firewall off.
How do I fix Microsoft Defender Antivirus is turned off?Turn on real-time and cloud-delivered protection. Select the Start menu.. In the search bar, type Windows Security. ... . Select Virus & threat protection.. Under Virus & threat protection settings, select Manage settings.. Flip each switch under Real-time protection and Cloud-delivered protection to turn them on.. |