1. Using Windows Security Settings:
– Open the Start menu and click on the gear icon to open the Settings app.
– In the Settings app, click on “Privacy & Security”.
– On the left-hand side, select “Windows Security”.
– Click on “Virus & Threat Protection”.
– Under the “Virus & Threat Protection Settings” section, click on “Manage settings”.
– Toggle the “Real-time protection” switch to the off position.
2. Using Group Policy Editor:
– Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
– Type “gpedit.msc” and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
– In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to “Computer Configuration” → “Administrative Templates” → “Windows Components” → “Windows Defender Antivirus”.
– Double-click on the “Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus” policy.
– Select the “Enabled” option.
– Click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
3. Using the Registry Editor:
– Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
– Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
– In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender
– If the “Windows Defender” key does not exist, right-click on the “Microsoft” key, select “New” → “Key”, and name it “Windows Defender”.
– Right-click on the “Windows Defender” key, select “New” → “DWORD (32-bit) Value” and name it “DisableAntiSpyware”.
– Double-click on the “DisableAntiSpyware” value and set its data to “1”.
– Click on “OK” to save the changes.
It is important to note that deactivating Windows Defender leaves your computer more vulnerable to security threats. Therefore, it is recommended to only deactivate it temporarily and ensure you have alternative antivirus protection in place.
To reactivate Windows Defender, simply reverse the steps mentioned above. Enable real-time protection in the Windows Security Settings, set the “Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus” policy to “Not Configured” in the Group Policy Editor, or delete the “DisableAntiSpyware” value in the Registry Editor.
In conclusion, deactivating Windows Defender on Windows 11 can be done through various methods such as using the Windows Security Settings, Group Policy Editor, or Registry Editor. However, it is crucial to remember the potential risks involved in disabling this essential security feature.