Preface
Windows Defender, now known as Microsoft Defender Antivirus, is built-in security software for Windows systems. It protects your PC from malware, ransomware, and other threats. But sometimes, you may need to turn it off. You may install trusted software that conflicts with it, run performance tests, or use a third-party antivirus.
While disabling it can serve a purpose, it's not always easy to find the correct method. You can turn it off temporarily, permanently or shut down the firewall. This article gives you a complete, transparent, and accurate guide to help you do exactly that.
Part 1: How to Temporarily Turn Off Windows Defender
This is the easiest and safest method if you only need to stop Windows Defender for a short time. Temporarily turning off real-time protection pauses Defender’s active scanning, but it will automatically reactivate after a reboot or after a while.
Steps to Temporarily Disable Real-Time Protection
Open Settings
→ Press Win + I or click the gear icon in your Start menu.
2. Go to Update & Security → Windows Security.
3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
4. Select Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
5. Toggle off the switch for Real-time protection.
Tip:
Use this method if you’re installing software that Defender mistakenly blocks. But remember, it won’t stay off permanently. Windows will turn it back on after a reboot or after some time.
Part 2: How to Permanently Disable Windows Defender
If you want to turn off Windows Defender fully, use the Group Policy Editor. This method is only available on Windows 10/11 Pro or Enterprise editions. It stops Microsoft Defender Antivirus from running entirely.
Steps to Permanently Disable Defender Using Group Policy
Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
Navigate to Computer Configuration subfolder → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
Double-click Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
Select Enabled, then click Apply and OK.
Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Tip:
This method won’t work on Windows Home editions unless you manually enable Group Policy using third-party tools, which is not recommended for beginners.
Part 3: How to Turn Off Windows Defender Firewall
Sometimes, keep antivirus protection on but turn off only the firewall. This can help when troubleshooting network issues or when using a third-party firewall.
Steps to Turn Off the Firewall
Open the Control Panel.
Navigate to System and Security → Windows Defender Firewall.
On the left panel, click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
Select Turn off Windows Defender Firewall for both Private and Public network settings.
Click OK to apply.
Warning:
Turning off your firewall makes your device more vulnerable. Before proceeding, ensure you have another firewall (like Norton, Bitdefender, or router-level).
Part 4: How to Turn Off Windows Defender Antivirus
To fully turn off antivirus protection without using Group Policy, you can turn off every individual protection feature within Windows Security settings. This includes cloud-delivered protection, sample submission, and more.
Steps to Turn Off All Antivirus Protection
Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
Go to Virus & threat protection.
Click Manage settings.
Toggle off the following:
Real-time protection
Cloud-delivered protection
Automatic sample submission
Tamper Protection
Tips:
This method is helpful for short-term tasks, but leaves your system unprotected. Consider scheduling Defender scans instead of entirely turning off the antivirus.
Part 5: Why Use WPS Office Instead?
Before you disable Windows Defender for software compatibility, ask yourself: Is there a safer alternative? Tools like WPS Office offer full office functionality without triggering security alerts.
Why WPS Office is a Smart Choice
Lightweight and fast — won't slow your PC or trigger Defender.
Microsoft Store Verified — trusted by antivirus platforms
Fully featured — includes Word, Excel, PDF, and PowerPoint alternatives.
Built-in WPS AI — helps summarise, edit, and write documents fast.
No bloatware or suspicious background processes
Tip:
With Windows Defender, WPS Office works out of the box, making it an excellent tool for students, freelancers, and professionals.
The Advantages of Using Windows Defender for PC Security
Windows Defender, now called Microsoft Defender Antivirus, is a reliable, built-in security solution for your PC. It comes with frequent updates and works seamlessly with your operating system to protect your computer from online threats. Here’s why it should be your first choice for antivirus protection.
1. Free and Built-In Protection
Windows Defender is completely free. Unlike third-party antivirus programs that require a subscription or hidden fees for complete protection, Windows Defender provides everything you need without any cost. It’s pre-installed and activated on your PC, saving you time and money.
2. Seamless Integration with Windows
Windows Defender integrates directly with Windows 10 and 11. It works smoothly with your system, offering real-time protection and automatic updates. You don’t need to do anything manually. Unlike other antivirus software, it won’t slow down your computer and has minimal impact on system performance.
3. Real-Time Protection and Threat Detection
Windows Defender actively monitors your PC for threats. It scans files and apps as you download or open them. It quickly detects and blocks malware, ransomware, spyware, and viruses. Cloud-powered protection stays updated with the latest threat definitions, always protecting you.
4. Comprehensive Security Features
Windows Defender offers more than just virus scanning. It includes key features like:
Firewall & Network Protection: Blocks unauthorised access to your device.
App & Browser Control: Protects you from dangerous apps and websites.
Device Performance & Health: Monitors your PC’s health and performance.
Controlled Folder Access: Shields your files from ransomware by blocking unauthorised changes.
5. Low System Impact
Windows Defender has a minimal impact on your PC’s performance. Windows Defender rarely affects your Windows speed.
6. Automatic Updates
Windows Defender receives regular updates from Microsoft. These updates occur automatically, ensuring your protection remains up-to-date. You won’t have to worry about manually installing new security patches.
With Windows Defender, you get free, seamless, and adequate protection. It’s built into your Windows system, so there’s no need for extra software.
FAQs
Q1: Is it safe to turn off Windows Defender?
A: Yes, but only temporarily and only if you trust the task you're performing. For long-term use, install another antivirus first.
Q2: Will Windows Defender turn back on automatically?
A: Yes, if you only turn off real-time protection. To completely stop it, use Group Policy or Registry edits.
Q3: Can I disable just the firewall or antivirus?
A: Yes. You can disable either the firewall or antivirus individually through system settings.
Summary
Disabling Windows Defender depends on your needs:
Temporarily turn it off via Settings for short-term tasks.
Permanently turn it off using Group Policy Editor (Pro versions only).
Turn off the firewall separately if you're troubleshooting or using a different firewall.
Disable antivirus features manually via Windows Security for greater control.
Security Reminder: Disable Defender only when necessary. Always re-enable it or use trusted antivirus software.
Looking for reliable office software that works without security conflicts?
WPS Office is a fast, secure, and comprehensive productivity suite, featuring built-in AI tools and a reliable system.
