Windows Defender otherwise known as the Microsoft Defender Antivirus comes automatically with the Windows 11, gives 24 hours and all round protection against viruses, malware, and online threats. It’s usually suggested to keep it on. Nevertheless, there may be scenarios where advanced users are looking to temporarily or permanently turn it off for instance, when using a trusted third-party antivirus or working with development tools that Defender flags incorrectly.

Before moving forward, keep the fact in mind that disabling Windows Defender exposes your system to potential security risks. Take the measures on the given methods if you completely understand the reasons and already have a reliable security solution in place.

Important Warning

Disabling Windows Defender exposes the security issues from your PC. Take this only if:

• You fully understand the applications you’re using.
• You are installing another antivirus
• You know what malware exposure can do.

Proceed with caution.

What is Microsoft Defender and Why Should You Think of Disabling It?

Microsoft Defender is Windows 11’s pre-installed antivirus that is for providing real-time protection but can create lack of performance, false positives, and lead to the software conflicts.

We have observed the MsMpEng.exe takes up to 200-500MB of RAM even when the system is sitting “idle,” with this much RAM it can create system slowdowns. As reported by multiple developers, they have noticed 30-50% faster build times after turning off the real-time scanning, on the other side gamers see 10-15 FPS boost in CPU-intensive titles.

Ways to Permanently Disable Windows Defender on Windows 11

1. Disable Microsoft Defender Using CMD

You can try the Command Prompt app to turn off the Microsoft Defender. You can do this by pasting a registry modification command that is given below, and it will keep Microsoft’s default antivirus solution aside. Read below to discover how to do it:

1. Simply press Win + R to start the Run command box. Afterwards, type cmd in the text input area and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter key to launch Command Prompt with admin privileges.
2. Now, type the following command and press the enter key: reg add “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Microsoft Defender” /v DisableAntiSpyware /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
3. You will be prompted with “The operation completed successfully.” message once the command is done.

2. Turn Off Real‑Time Protection in Windows Security

Go to the Start ➔ Settings ➔ Privacy & Security ➔ Windows Security ➔ Virus & Threat Protection ➔ Manage Settings. Once you are there, turn off Real‑time Protection and Cloud‑delivered Protection.

You may see a prompt confirming you want to turn off Windows Defender via Windows Security; accept to proceed.

3. Disable Windows With The Help of Group Policy Editor

1. Press the Windows + R → and give this command “gpedit.msc” → click ok

Once done go to the Defender: Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Microsoft Defender Antivirus

Look for “Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus” and double click to activate this.

Select “Enabled” → Apply → OK

Disable Real-Time: Open “Real-time Protection” folder

Once done save the changes and restart the system.

What are the Risks of Disabling Windows Defender?

If you are planning to disable Windows Defender that is the last resort for particular contexts, it can highlight significant security risks. Below we have listed few instances:

• Vulnerability for cyber attacks: Systems will be more exposed for the malware and ransomware.
• Compliance Breach: various companies need security standards that need to be updated with the endpoint protection.
• Overlapping Other Security Softwares: Users Disable Defender when they are deploying some third-party antivirus, but contradicting programs can create overlapping softwares if not managed correctly.

Best Practices To Keep In Mind:

• Never forget to create the backup of your system or keep a restore point prior to making registry or group policy tweaks.
• If you are planning to disable Defender for a while, set a reminder to re-activate it timely.
• For the optimum results please turn off the enterprise-grade security solutions if Defender is disabled.
• Keep an eye on your system’s security status on a day to day basis, particularly after disabling automatic protections.

Conclusion

Having control over the Windows Defender in 11 is an important aspect of the system administration, and security workflow optimization. Undoubtedly the built-in protections are perfect if you are looking for something as first line of defence but if you are in a condition where its disablement is required proceed with meticulous planning, execution, and considering the risk factor.

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