Why Turn Off Microsoft Defender?įor instance, if you’re planning to install a better antivirus program with more features and in-depth protection options and you don’t want Microsoft Defender to consume CPU and battery in the background, then you probably need to disable it. Microsoft Defender works pretty well at keeping your computer safe from viruses and various security threats, though certain situations might call for you to disable it.
Microsoft Defender Antivirus is renamed to Windows Security app in the newer releases of Windows 10 and Windows 11.
In addition to antivirus and anti-malware protection, Microsoft Defender also offers account protection, online security, device performance and health monitoring, parental controls, and firewall and network security. Microsoft Defender Antivirus (formerly known as Windows Defender) is a built-in free anti-malware program included with Windows 11 that protects the computer from viruses and malware. Everything you need to know about enabling or disabling Microsoft Defender temporarily as well as permanently in Windows 11.