Windows Defender

Turn Off Windows Defender for the Time Being

1. Launch Windows Security
   After selecting the Start menu, type Windows Security and hit Enter.
2. Go to Threat & Virus Protection
   Choose Virus & Threat Protection from the Windows Security window.
3. Control the Configuration
   Under Virus & Threat Protection options, scroll down and select Manage settings.
4. Disable Real-Time Security
   Locate and turn off Real-time protection.
   Click Yes to confirm if User Account Control (UAC) asks you to.
5. (Optional) Turn off Windows Defender Firewall
   Select Windows Defender Firewall under Control Panel > System and Security.
   Click Activate or disable Windows Defender Firewall.
   Choose to disable the Windows Defender Firewall on both public and private networks.

Note: Unless it is permanently disabled using Registry Editor or Group Policy, Windows Defender will automatically re-enable itself after a restart.

Reactivating Windows Defender

1. Launch Windows Security
   After selecting the Start menu, type Windows Security and hit Enter.
2. Select Threat & Virus Protection
   Click on Threat & Virus Protection.
3. Activate Real-Time Security
   Under Virus & Threat Protection options, select Manage settings.
   Turn on Real-time protection.
4. Turn on Windows Defender Firewall
   Select Windows Defender Firewall under Control Panel > System and Security.
   Click to activate or deactivate Windows Defender Firewall.
   Choose to activate Windows Defender Firewall on both public and private networks.