1. Disabling Windows Defender may be required when using third-party antivirus software or avoiding conflicts, but it will increase the risk of system exposure. 2. Professional version users can completely shut down through Group Policy: run gpedit.msc, enter the corresponding path, and enable the "Close Microsoft Defender Antivirus" option. 3. The Home Edition can be added to the DisableAntiSpyware value of 1 through the Registry Editor to prevent it from running. 4. Temporary pause can turn off real-time protection through the virus protection option in the settings. 5. It is recommended to keep it on in case of non-replacement antivirus software to ensure safety.
Disabling Windows Defender can be necessary in certain cases, like when you're using a third-party antivirus and want to avoid conflicts. But keep in mind that turning it off leaves your system more exposed if there's no replacement protection in place.

Why You Might Want to Disable It
Some users disable Windows Defender because they're running another antivirus program. Running two at the same time can cause slowdowns or false alerts. Others might find its real-time scanning intrusive during gaming or heavy workloads. Whatever the reason, just make sure you understand the trade-offs before moving forward.
Using Group Policy (Best for Pro Versions)
If you're on Windows 10 Pro, 11 Pro, or any business version, this method is solid:

- Open
Run
by pressing Win R , typegpedit.msc
, and hit Enter. - Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus .
- Double-click on Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus .
- Set it to Enabled , then click Apply and OK.
This method fully disables the service, including background scanning. Just note that it won't work on Windows Home editions.
Editing the Registry (For All Versions)
If you're on Home edition or GP isn't an option:

- Press Win R , type
regedit
, and open the Registry Editor. - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender
- Create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named
DisableAntiSpyware
and set it to1
.
This stops Defender from running and blocks most of its features. Be careful with registry edits — a mistake can cause system issues.
Temporarily Pausing Through Settings
Sometimes you don't need to fully disable it — just pause for a while:
- Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security .
- Click Virus & threat protection .
- Under Virus & threat protection settings , click Manage settings .
- Toggle off Real-time protection .
This only turns off active scanning but doesn't stop Defender completely. Useful for short-term tasks like installing software or troubleshooting.
Do one of these methods fit your situation? If you're not replacing Defender with something else, consider leaving it on — even partial protection is better than none.
The above is the detailed content of How to disable Windows Defender?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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