Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus program included in the Microsoft Windows operating system. It was first released as an anti-spyware program in 2006, then was incorporated into Windows Vista and later versions of Windows. Windows Defender is designed to guard computers against malicious and fraudulent software, as well as other threats such as viruses and ransomware.
If you want to turn off Windows Defender, there are several options available. You can disable it through the Windows Security Center, disable real-time protection, or completely uninstall it. Depending on your version of Windows, the steps may vary, so be sure to check the instructions for your specific version.
1. Disable Windows Defender Through Windows Security Center
In Windows 10, Windows 8, or Windows 7, you can disable Windows Defender by going to the Windows Security Center. To do this, open the Start menu and type “Security” into the search box. When the results appear, select “Windows Security” from the list of applications. In the Windows Security window, click on “Virus & threat protection,” then select “Virus & threat protection settings.” On the “Virus & threat protection settings” page, you can toggle Windows Defender to the “Off” position.
2. Disable Real-Time Protection
Alternatively, you can disable Windows Defender’s real-time protection without completely disabling the program. To do this, open the Start menu, type “Windows Defender” into the search box, and select “Windows Defender Security Center” when the results appear. In the Windows Defender Security Center window, select “Virus & threat protection,” then select “Virus & threat protection settings.” On the “Virus & threat protection settings” page, you can toggle “Real-time protection” to the “Off” position.
3. Uninstall Windows Defender
If you want to completely uninstall Windows Defender, you will need to use the Programs and Features window. To open this window, open the Start menu and type “Programs and Features” into the search box. When the results appear, select “Programs and Features” from the list of applications.
In the Programs and Features window, scroll down the list of programs until you find “Microsoft Windows Defender.” Select it, then click on “Uninstall/Change” at the top of the window. Follow the on-screen instructions until the uninstallation is complete.
Once you have disabled or uninstalled Windows Defender, you may need to install another antivirus program if you want to continue using one. Otherwise, your computer will be unprotected against malicious and fraudulent software.