Welcome to our article on how to stop Windows Defender! Windows Defender is a default antivirus software that comes with the Windows operating system. While it is a powerful tool for protecting your computer against viruses and malware, you might need to disable it temporarily to perform certain activities, such as installing software that is blocked by Windows Defender.
In this article, we will provide you with 12 steps on how to stop Windows Defender from running on your computer. We will also give you some tips and tricks to help you troubleshoot any problems that might arise during this process. So, let’s get started!
Steps
Step 1: Turn off Real-Time Protection
The first step in disabling Windows Defender is to turn off the Real-Time Protection. This feature continuously scans your computer in the background for any potential threats. Here’s how you can turn off this feature:
1. Click on the Start menu and type “Windows Security” in the search bar.
2. Click on the Windows Security app from the search results.
3. Click on the “Virus & threat protection” tab located on the left-hand side of the window.
4. Under the “Virus & threat protection settings” section, click on “Manage settings.”
5. Toggle the switch next to “Real-time protection” to the “Off” position.
Step 2: Disable Cloud-Delivered Protection
Cloud-Delivered Protection is another feature in Windows Defender that uses cloud-based analysis to detect and prevent threats. Here’s how you can disable this feature:
1. From the “Manage settings” screen in Step 1, toggle the switch next to “Cloud-delivered protection” to the “Off” position.
Step 3: Turn off Automatic Sample Submission
Automatic Sample Submission is a feature in Windows Defender that sends samples of potentially harmful files to Microsoft for analysis. Here’s how you can turn off this feature:
1. From the “Manage settings” screen in Step 1, click on “Virus & threat protection settings.”
2. Scroll down to the “Automatic sample submission” section and toggle the switch to the “Off” position.
Step 4: Stop the Windows Defender Service
The Windows Defender Service is responsible for running Windows Defender in the background. Here’s how you can stop this service:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to bring up the Run dialog box.
2. Type “services.msc” into the Run box and press Enter.
3. Locate the Windows Defender Service from the list and double-click on it.
4. From the “General” tab, click on the “Stop” button to stop the service.
Step 5: Use Group Policy Editor
Group Policy Editor is a tool in Windows that allows you to make changes to the operating system’s settings. Here’s how you can disable Windows Defender using this tool:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to bring up the Run dialog box.
2. Type “gpedit.msc” into the Run box and press Enter.
3. Navigate to “Computer Configuration” > “Administrative Templates” > “Windows Components” > “Windows Defender Antivirus.”
4. Double-click on the “Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus” policy.
5. Select the “Enabled” option and click “Apply” and “OK.”
Step 6: Disable Windows Defender using Registry Editor
Registry Editor is another tool in Windows that allows you to make changes to the operating system’s registry. Here’s how you can disable Windows Defender using this tool:
1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to bring up the Run dialog box.
2. Type “regedit” into the Run box and press Enter.
3. Navigate to “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender.”
4. Right-click on the “Windows Defender” folder and select “New” > “DWORD (32-bit) Value.”
5. Name the new key “DisableAntiSpyware.”
6. Double-click on the new key and set its value to “1.”
Step 7: Disable Windows Defender Scheduled Scan
Windows Defender runs scheduled scans automatically to check for threats. Here’s how you can disable this feature:
1. From the Windows Security app, click on the “Virus & threat protection” tab located on the left-hand side of the window.
2. Under the “Current threats” section, click on the “Scan options” link.
3. Click on the “Custom scan” option.
4. Uncheck the box next to “Windows Defender Scheduled Scan.”
5. Click on the “Save” button to save the changes.
Step 8: Disable Windows Defender Firewall
Windows Defender Firewall is a security feature in Windows that blocks unauthorized access to your computer. Here’s how you can disable this feature:
1. Click on the Start menu and type “Windows Security” in the search bar.
2. Click on the Windows Security app from the search results.
3. Click on the “Firewall & network protection” tab located on the left-hand side of the window.
4. Click on the current network that you are connected to (i.e., “Public network” or “Private network”).
5. Toggle the switch next to “Windows Defender Firewall” to the “Off” position.
Step 9: Disable Notifications from Windows Defender
Windows Defender sends notifications to alert you about potential threats. Here’s how you can disable these notifications:
1. From the Windows Security app, click on the “Virus & threat protection” tab located on the left-hand side of the window.
2. Click on the “Manage settings” link under the “Virus & threat protection settings” section.
3. Scroll down to the “Notifications” section and toggle the switch next to “Receive alerts and notifications from Windows Defender Antivirus” to the “Off” position.
Step 10: Use a Different Antivirus or Antimalware Program
If you want to stop Windows Defender permanently, you can use a different antivirus or antimalware program instead. Here’s how you can install a different program:
1. Download and install the new antivirus or antimalware program of your choice.
2. Uninstall Windows Defender from your computer by following the instructions in Step 11.
Step 11: Uninstall Windows Defender
If you want to completely remove Windows Defender from your computer, you can uninstall it using PowerShell. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard to bring up the Power User menu.
2. Click on “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the menu.
3. Type the following command and press Enter: “Get-AppxPackage *WindowsDefender* | Remove-AppxPackage”
4. Wait for the uninstallation process to complete.
Step 12: Restore Windows Defender
If you want to restore Windows Defender to its default settings, you can do it by resetting the app. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Click on the Start menu and type “Windows Security” in the search bar.
2. Click on the Windows Security app from the search results.
3. Click on the “App & browser control” tab located on the left-hand side of the window.
4. Scroll down to the “Settings” section and click on the “Reputation-based protection settings” link.
5. Click on the “Reset settings” button to restore Windows Defender to its default settings.
Explanations
Now that we have gone through the 12 steps on how to disable Windows Defender, you might be asking, “Why would I want to disable Windows Defender?” Here are a few reasons why you might need to disable it:
– You want to install software that is being blocked by Windows Defender.
– You are using another antivirus or antimalware program that conflicts with Windows Defender.
– You are troubleshooting a problem and need to eliminate Windows Defender as a possible cause.
It is important to note that disabling Windows Defender can leave your computer vulnerable to threats. Additionally, some of the steps we have outlined may not work on all versions of Windows, so be sure to check which version you are running before attempting any of these steps.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you troubleshoot any problems that might arise during the process of disabling Windows Defender:
Tip 1: Use Safe Mode
If you are having trouble disabling Windows Defender, you can try booting your computer in Safe Mode. This will load a minimal version of Windows and may make it easier to perform the steps outlined in this article.
Tip 2: Use Command Prompt
If you prefer using Command Prompt over PowerShell, you can use it to uninstall Windows Defender. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard to bring up the Power User menu.
2. Click on “Command Prompt (Admin)” from the menu.
3. Type the following command and press Enter: “sc delete WinDefend”
Tip 3: Disable Windows Defender before Installing Software
If you know that Windows Defender will block a software installation, it is best to disable it before attempting to install the software. This will prevent any conflicts from occurring during the installation process.
Tip 4: Enable Windows Defender if You Need Protection
Remember to enable Windows Defender again once you have finished the task that required it to be disabled. This will ensure that your computer remains protected against threats.
Tip 5: Check for Updates
If you are still having trouble with Windows Defender after following the steps outlined in this article, be sure to check for any updates to the program. Microsoft releases regular updates to Windows Defender that may address any issues you are experiencing.
Tip 6: Use a Virtual Machine
If you are experimenting with Windows Defender and do not want to risk compromising your computer’s security, you can use a virtual machine to test out the steps outlined in this article.
Tip 7: Use System Restore
If you encounter any problems or errors after disabling Windows Defender, you can use the System Restore feature in Windows to restore your computer to a previous point in time.
Tip 8: Use Third-Party Antivirus Programs
If you decide to permanently disable Windows Defender, be sure to install a reputable third-party antivirus program to protect your computer against threats.
Tip 9: Consider the Risks
Remember that disabling Windows Defender can leave your computer vulnerable to threats. Consider the risks carefully before proceeding with the steps outlined in this article.
Tip 10: Seek Professional Help
If you are unsure about any of the steps outlined in this article or encounter any problems, it is always a good idea to seek professional help from a computer technician or IT specialist.
Advantages and Disadvantages of How to Stop Windows Defender
Advantages
1. Increased performance: By stopping Windows Defender, you may notice a significant increase in system performance, as the program uses up system resources while running in the background.
2. Improved compatibility: Some third-party antivirus programs may be incompatible with Windows Defender, leading to software conflicts. By turning off Windows Defender, you can use these antivirus programs without any issues.
3. More control over protection: You may prefer to use a different antivirus program that offers better protection or more features than Windows Defender. By turning it off, you gain more control over your system’s protection and can choose the solution that works best for you.
4. Reduced distractions: Windows Defender often displays pop-ups and notifications that may be distracting or annoying. Disabling it can reduce these interruptions and improve your focus.
5. Preserving system resources: If you have an older or less powerful computer, stopping Windows Defender can help you preserve system resources and avoid performance issues.
6. Preventing false positives: Windows Defender may sometimes identify safe files or programs as threats, leading to false positives. By turning it off, you can avoid these false alarms and prevent unnecessary interference with your work or browsing.
7. Enhanced privacy: Windows Defender collects data from your computer, including information about your files and settings. By stopping it, you can improve your privacy and prevent this data from being shared with Microsoft or other parties.
8. Reducing update hassles: Windows Defender requires regular updates to stay effective. If you’re using a third-party antivirus program, these updates may be unnecessary and time-consuming.
9. Customization options: Stopping Windows Defender allows you to customize your antivirus setup according to your needs and preferences, whether that means using a different antivirus program or adjusting settings in an existing one.
10. Troubleshooting compatibility issues: If you’re experiencing problems with your computer, disabling Windows Defender can help you troubleshoot the issue and find a solution.
Disadvantages
1. Increased risk of malware: Without Windows Defender or another antivirus program running, your computer is more vulnerable to malware and other threats.
2. Less protection: While third-party antivirus programs may be more comprehensive or feature-packed than Windows Defender, turning it off altogether means losing the basic protection it provides.
3. Decreased security updates: Windows Defender also provides regular security updates to protect against new threats and vulnerabilities. By turning it off, you may miss these essential updates.
4. Technical difficulties: Stopping Windows Defender may cause technical difficulties, such as software and hardware conflicts or system errors.
5. Potentially harmful files: Turning off Windows Defender may allow potentially harmful files to enter your system unnoticed, posing a security risk.
6. Lower confidence in system security: Knowing that you’re not using any antivirus protection may decrease your confidence in your system’s security and make you more cautious when using your computer.
7. Difficulty with reinstatement: If you decide to turn Windows Defender back on, you may encounter difficulties reinstating the program or restoring it to its default settings.
8. Lost features: Windows Defender offers several features, such as email filtering and firewall protection, that you won’t have access to if you disable it.
9. Increased maintenance: Without Windows Defender, you may need to perform more regular system checks and maintenance tasks to ensure your computer is secure and error-free.
10. Legal or policy issues: In some cases, turning off Windows Defender may be against your organization’s or workplace’s policies, or it may be illegal in your country or region.
FAQ
1. What is Windows Defender?
Windows Defender is a security software developed by Microsoft that provides protection against viruses, malware, spyware, and other types of malicious software.
2. Why would someone want to stop Windows Defender?
Although Windows Defender is a reliable security software, some users may want to disable it to install other antivirus software or to improve their computer’s performance.
3. How can I temporarily disable Windows Defender?
You can temporarily disable Windows Defender by following these steps:
- Go to the Start menu and open “Settings.”
- Click on “Update & Security.”
- Select “Windows Security.”
- Click on “Virus & threat protection.”
- Click on the “Manage settings” link under “Virus & threat protection settings.”
- Toggle off the switch under “Real-time protection.”
4. How can I permanently disable Windows Defender?
To permanently disable Windows Defender, you can follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R and type “regedit” in the Run dialog box.
- Press Enter and navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender.
- Right-click on the “Windows Defender” key and click on “New” and then “DWORD (32-bit) Value.”
- Name the new value “DisableAntiSpyware.”
- Double-click on the newly created value and set its value to 1.
- Restart your computer.
5. Is it safe to disable Windows Defender?
Disabling Windows Defender can potentially expose your computer to security risks. However, if you have installed another antivirus software program, it may be safe to disable Windows Defender.
6. How do I know if Windows Defender is disabled?
If Windows Defender is disabled, you will see a notification in the Windows Security app that reads “Your device may be vulnerable.” Additionally, the “Real-time protection” toggle switch will be turned off.
7. Can I disable Windows Defender on Windows 10 Home?
Yes, you can disable Windows Defender on Windows 10 Home by following the same steps as for Windows 10 Pro.
8. Can I disable specific features of Windows Defender?
Yes, you can disable specific features of Windows Defender by going to “Virus & threat protection settings” and clicking on “Manage settings,” then toggling off the switches next to the features you want to disable.
9. Will disabling Windows Defender improve my computer’s performance?
Disabling Windows Defender may slightly improve your computer’s performance, but it is unlikely to have a significant impact.
10. How can I re-enable Windows Defender after disabling it?
You can re-enable Windows Defender by following these steps:
- Go to the Start menu and open “Settings.”
- Click on “Update & Security.”
- Select “Windows Security.”
- Click on “Virus & threat protection.”
- Click on the “Manage settings” link under “Virus & threat protection settings.”
- Toggle on the switch under “Real-time protection.”
11. Can I use Windows Defender and another antivirus software simultaneously?
No, it is not recommended to use Windows Defender and another antivirus software at the same time, as they may conflict with each other and cause performance issues.
12. Do I need to disable Windows Defender to install another antivirus software?
It is not necessary to disable Windows Defender to install another antivirus software, as most antivirus software programs will automatically disable Windows Defender during the installation process.
13. How often should I run a virus scan with Windows Defender?
You should run a virus scan with Windows Defender at least once a week to keep your computer protected from malicious software.
How to Stop Windows Defender
Windows Defender is an anti-malware software that comes pre-installed with Windows operating system. It provides real-time protection against software threats like viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. Although it is a useful tool in protecting your computer, for some users, turning it off is necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a few ways to stop Windows Defender from running in your system. You can either disable it temporarily or permanently, depending on your needs. However, make sure to enable it again or install other anti-malware software to keep your computer protected from threats.
Closing
Thank you for reading this article on how to stop Windows Defender. We hope that we have provided you with useful information on how to disable it. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to leave a comment below. Good luck on your computer maintenance journey!