Here’s how to enable/disable Microsoft Defender in Windows 11:įirst, open Settings by right-clicking the Start icon on the taskbar and selecting the ‘Settings’ option from the Start button context menu OR simply press the Windows+ I keyboard to launch Windows Settings app. There are plenty of reasons to turn off Windows Defender temporarily especially when you are installing or opening third-party software from unknown or untrusted sources. Enable/Disable Microsoft Defender Temporarily using Settings App In this step-by-step guide, we will explain how to enable or disable Microsoft Defender in Windows 11. There are different ways you can disable Microsoft Defender in Windows 11. If you’re not going to connect your Windows 11 PC to the internet, then there’s no risk in disabling Windows Defender to save system resources. It also uses a significant amount of the device’s resources from CPU to disk space and RAM.

Also if you’re using a third-party antivirus program while the Defender is enabled, it may cause issues or conflict with that anti-virus program.Īnother reason might be that when you’re trying to install some third-party software or app, Microsoft Defender may block the installation. Why Turn Off Microsoft Defender?įor instance, if you’re planning to install a better antivirus program with more features and in-depth protection options and you don’t want Microsoft Defender to consume CPU and battery in the background, then you probably need to disable it. Microsoft Defender works pretty well at keeping your computer safe from viruses and various security threats, though certain situations might call for you to disable it. Microsoft Defender Antivirus is renamed to Windows Security app in the newer releases of Windows 10 and Windows 11. In addition to antivirus and anti-malware protection, Microsoft Defender also offers account protection, online security, device performance and health monitoring, parental controls, and firewall and network security. Microsoft Defender Antivirus (formerly known as Windows Defender) is a built-in free anti-malware program included with Windows 11 that protects the computer from viruses and malware. Everything you need to know about enabling or disabling Microsoft Defender temporarily as well as permanently in Windows 11.

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