Here is How to Disable Microsoft Windows Defender and Whether You Should Do It

Microsoft's in-house anti-malware component, Windows Defender (previously Microsoft Security Essentials), has come a long way. There was a time when people used to laugh at it, security experts gave little attention to it, and users used to curse it. Now, everybody loves Windows Defender. But if you still want to disable Microsoft Defender on Windows 10, we will show you how.

With the Windows 10 November Update, Microsoft has added the Windows Defender Antivirus to Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection for improved built-in security in the Windows 10 and later. However, the bigger question is why you want to turn off Windows Defender on Windows 10 computer? Should you really do it?

Let's begin.

1. Turn Off Windows Defender in Windows 10

There is no need to disable Windows Defender completely just because you want to install an app or make some system changes. You can simply disable the real-time protection component in Windows Defender and continue with the task at hand. Press Windows key+I to open Settings and search for Virus & threat protection.

Click on Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.

You can now turn off real-time protection here.

That way, you don't have to disable and remove Windows Defender completely. If you still want to do it, continue reading.

2. Run Windows Defender with Antivirus

Microsoft showed a lot of character when it updated Windows Defender to run alongside other antivirus apps. That wasn't possible in earlier versions of Windows, but it is possible with Windows 10.

I have Kaspersky running on my computer, but I also have Windows Defender switched on. I just don't have real-time protection running. That allows me to run periodic scans with Windows Defender and still use another antivirus app. I get the best of both worlds.

Should You Disable Windows Defender

Yes and no. That's not much of an answer, but let me explain.

Why Use Windows Defender

Windows Defender has turned into a solid antivirus app. It not only protects you from viruses but also zero-day and ransomware attacks.

It will disallow critical changes to your system files and help recover data in case the ransomware attack is successful. As noted earlier, Defender now offers real-time protection and works in the background, is pretty fast, and works nicely with third-party antivirus apps. This brings me to the next point.

Malware. It's a whole different story, and irrespective of which antivirus app you are using, you need Malwarebytes to fight malware. I recommend a combination of Defender and Malwarebytes (paid version) to offer the best possible protection on your Windows 10 computer.

Why Not Use Windows Defender

Some advanced antivirus apps like Kaspersky come with additional features that traditional antivirus apps like Defender lack. Kaspersky comes with a VPN (costs extra) that will further help protect you by masking your identity and encrypt your internet connection.

It also offers a password manager to store important passwords. However, third-party password managers are far superior and more recommended. Then there are parental controls if you have kids in the house. That will help protect your kids from adult content like porn, violence, abuse, and much more.

Verdict

Here is my opinion. AV Test gave Windows Defender full marks in protection and usability and only slightly less in performance. Windows Defender performs at par with some of the best antivirus apps out there. It gets a 100% rating in December 2019 which is slightly better than the industry average.

You still need Malwarebytes irrespective of which antivirus app you use. Paying for two when Windows Defender is free makes no sense. As for additional features like a password manager and VPN are considered, they already cost extra even with antivirus products like Kaspersky. I recommend Dashlane that offers both of these for the price of one.

Defend the Innocent

You can turn off Windows Defender or disable it, but you shouldn't. Here is the short version for those who skimmed the article. Use Defender with Malwarebytes and you are good. You need additional features, there are dedicated apps that are far better than what comes packaged with top antivirus apps.

Windows Defender has turned into a formidable opponent and results show it only getting better.

Next up:

Windows Defender Antivirus arrived to replace the Microsoft Security Essentials. However, it is more than a replacement and you should totally read the next post to know why Windows Defender is important.

Last updated on 24 Feb, 2020