Complete guide to uninstall Windows Defender

Windows Defender, Microsoft's built-in antivirus, is an effective security tool that protects users against threats and malwareHowever, there are times when you might want to disable this feature temporarily or permanently. Whether it's because you need to install another antivirus or because you're interested in performing certain tasks that Windows Defender might block, learning how to disable it can be useful. Although disabling it carries risks, it is possible to do so by following clear and safe procedures.

Did you know that Windows Defender, although valued for its effectiveness, does not always satisfy everyone? If you are one of the users who are looking for more control over their antivirus or simply want to try an alternative solution, here we explain step by step how to do it. In this article you will find detailed methods to Disable Microsoft Defender depending on the type of configuration and edition of Windows you have, as well as knowing the risks that this may entail.

Why disable Windows Defender?

There are several reasons that may motivate a user to disable Windows Defender. One of the most common is the need to install another antivirus, since Microsoft's software could conflict with other security applications. In addition, some specific programs that are considered safe by the user could be wrongly detected as malicious by the antivirus.

However, disabling Windows Defender is not without risk. Doing so leaves your device more exposed to threats from viruses, malware, and ransomware. It's important to take additional steps to protect your device if you decide to disable it. For example, make sure you use another reliable antivirus or strengthen your online security habits. It's also critical to be aware of the features you lose by disabling it, such as its firewall and real-time protection.

How to disable Windows Defender from settings

One of the easiest ways to disable Windows Defender is through the system settings. This method is ideal if you want to do a temporary deactivation. Here are the steps:

• Access settings from the start menu or by pressing the key combination Win + I.
• Select option "Update and security".
• In the menu on the left, click "Windows Security".
• Accede to “Virus and Threat Protection”.
• Inside the section «Antivirus and threat protection settings», Click on «Manage settings».
• Turn off the options Real-time protection y Cloud-based protection.

These steps will temporarily disable Windows Defender. Please note that this setting may automatically revert after a while or after a restart of your computer.

Disable Windows Defender from the Registry

If you need to disable Windows Defender more permanently, you can use the Registry Editor. However, this option is a bit more advanced and requires caution. Before you proceed, create a restore point in case something goes wrong.

To disable it from the Registry:

1. Press Win + R to open the run box and type "Regedit".
2. Navigate to the route: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SOFTWARE \ Policies \ Microsoft \ Windows Defender.
3. Right click on the folder Windows Defender, Select New> DWORD value (32 bits).
4. Name the value as Disable AntiSpyware.
5. Double click on it and set the value to 1.
6. Close the editor and restart your computer.

This method permanently disables Windows Defender until you manually re-enable it by following the same steps, but deleting or modifying the created value.

Advanced Options: Local Group Policies

If you're using Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education, you can disable Windows Defender via Local Group Policies. This method is not available for the Home edition.

Steps to disable it:

1. Open the run box with Win + R and writes "Gpedit.msc".
2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
3. Double click on the option «Disable Microsoft Defender Antivirus».
4. Select option "Enabled", apply the changes and restart the computer.

Deactivation using third-party programs

If you prefer not to manually adjust system settings, you can use specialized programs such as Ultimate Windows TweakerThis software is designed to make changes to Windows easily and safely.

To disable Windows Defender with Ultimate Windows Tweaker:

• Download the version compatible with your operating system from its official site.
• Run the program as administrator.
• Access the section «Security & Privacy» and select "Disable Microsoft Defender".
• Apply the changes and restart your PC.

Associated risks and additional protections

Before you make the decision to disable Windows Defender, it's important to be aware of the risks involved. By doing so, you'll lose key protections against threats like viruses, ransomware, and other forms of malware. Additionally, the built-in firewall and advanced security features like real-time and cloud-based protection will no longer be active.

To mitigate these risks:

• Install another reliable antivirus instead of relying solely on the Windows Firewall.
• Practice safe online habits, such as avoiding suspicious websites and not downloading files from unverified sources.
• Make regular backups of your important data.

Although Windows Defender is a powerful tool, there are times when you might need to disable it. With the methods described above, you can do so safely and appropriately according to your needs. Always remember to assess the risks and complement your computer's security with alternative solutions.