How to Permanently Disable or Remove Windows Defender on Windows?

Disabling Windows Defender may be preferable for users relying on third-party antivirus software. As Windows Defender is deeply integrated into the OS, disabling it involves editing the registry or modifying Group Policy settings. These methods require precise steps to ensure the changes are correct.

Before proceeding, choose a reliable third-party antivirus, as disabling Windows Defender will leave your system vulnerable.

1. Use Group Policy Editor

Modifying the Group Policy Editor is a straightforward way to disable Windows Defender. This method is more permanent, as the Group Policy Editor allows users to modify core Windows functions.

If you have Windows Home edition, you need to install the Group Policy Editor.

1. Right-click the Start Menu and select Run.
   
2. In the Run Dialog box, type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
   
3. Navigate to:

   Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus

4. Double-click Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus, then select Enabled.
5. Click Apply and then OK to save the settings.
6. Next, select Allow Antimalware service to remain running always, and set it to Disabled.
7. Click Apply and then OK.
   
8. Open the Real-time protection folder, and double-click Turn off real-time protection.
9. Select Enabled, click Apply, and then OK.
10. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

2. Use Registry Editor (Only for Windows 10)

The Registry Editor can also be used to disable Windows Defender.

1. Click the Start Menu and type Registry Editor, then press Enter to open it.
   
2. In the Registry Editor, navigate to:

   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender

3. Right-click on an empty space in the right pane, hover over New, and click DWORD (32-bit) Value.
4. Name the newly created DWORD as DisableAntiSpyware.
   
5. Double-click the DisableAntiSpyware entry, set its value to 1, and click OK.
   
6. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer to apply the changes.

After following these methods, ensure you’ve installed reliable antivirus software. Consult our guide on the 5 BEST Antiviruses for Windows 2024 to choose trustworthy antivirus software.