📅 February 10, 2025

Windows

Alex Ruben

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How to Disable Windows Defender on Windows 10/11: A Step-by-Step Guide

This guide will walk you through multiple methods to disable Windows Defender on Windows 10 and Windows 11, either temporarily or permanently. By following these steps, you’ll learn how to manage Windows Defender settings effectively, making it easier to install third-party antivirus software or adjust your system protection preferences.

Step 1: Disable Windows Defender Temporarily

To temporarily disable Windows Defender, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows key to open the Start menu.
2. Type Windows Security and hit Enter.
3. In the Windows Security window, click on Virus & threat protection.
4. Next, select Manage settings under the “Virus & threat protection settings” section.
5. Toggle off the Real-time protection switch.

Step 2: Disable Windows Defender Permanently Using Group Policy

To permanently disable Windows Defender via Group Policy, perform the following:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type gpedit.msc and hit Enter.
3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components, and then click on Windows Defender Antivirus.
4. Double-click on Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus.
5. Select Enabled, then click OK to apply the changes.

Step 3: Stop Windows Defender Using Registry Editor

Disabling Windows Defender through Registry Editor can be done as follows:

1. Press Windows + R to launch the Run dialog.
2. Type regedit and hit Enter.
3. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender.
4. If there’s no DisableAntiSpyware DWORD, right-click on the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it DisableAntiSpyware.
5. Set the value of DisableAntiSpyware to 1.

Step 4: Turn Off Real-Time Protection

Additionally, you can turn off the real-time protection feature:

1. Open Windows Security again as outlined in Step 1.
2. Navigate to Virus & threat protection.
3. Click Manage settings and toggle off the Real-time protection.

Step 5: Important Considerations Before Disabling Windows Defender

Keep in mind:

• Disabling Windows Defender leaves your system vulnerable to threats. Only proceed if absolutely necessary.
• Ensure you have an alternative antivirus solution installed and updated.
• Consider re-enabling Windows Defender after the task requiring its disablement is complete.

Extra Tips & Common Issues

Some tips to enhance your experience:

• Always create a system restore point before making changes in Group Policy or Registry to easily revert settings if needed.
• If you encounter issues re-enabling Windows Defender, consider running a system scan or using built-in Windows repair tools.

Conclusion

By following this guide, you should now have a clear understanding of how to disable Windows Defender on Windows 10/11. Whether for installing new software or managing security settings, always weigh the risks before making these changes. If you have further questions, consider checking out related articles for more tips and tricks.

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