Contrary to the popular misconception, Microsoft has been shipping a barebone anti-spyware since the Windows XP days. However, after the release of Windows 7, 8 and 10, Microsoft brought a full-fledged antivirus, Windows Defender (now called Windows Security) with support for anti-malware execution, real-time detection, and timely definition update. Having said that, some users don’t find the native antivirus effective and some find it too demanding on the computer resources. Recently, we wrote about how Windows Defender spikes the CPU usage abnormally through the msmpeng.exe process. So, if you are also facing such issues or just want to install an antivirus of your choice then follow our guide and learn how to disable Windows Defender Antivirus on Windows 10.
Here, we will use the Windows Registry tool to disable Windows Defender Antivirus. For this method, make sure you are using the Administrator account before proceeding ahead. Now, let’s begin.
- Right-click on “Windows Defender” and select New -> DWORD (32-bit) value. Name the file “DisableAntiSpyware” and click on the “Ok” button.
Note: If it does not work in the first try then try for the second time and it will surely work.
If the Registry hack is not working for you then you can take advantage of Group Policy Editor to disable Windows Defender permanently. However, keep in mind, Group Policy Editor is only available on the Administrator account and PCs running the Windows 10 Pro version. So with all that said, let’s begin.
- Here, double-click on “Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus” and select “Enabled” in the top-left corner. Subsequently, click on the “Apply” and “OK” button.
