

You can also navigate to this path using the GUI after unhiding the “ProgramData” folder. Open File Explorer and enter the path below: C:\programdata\Microsoft\Windows Defender\ Enter the path to Defender’s files You must now take complete ownership of the Windows Defender executable files to permanently disable it. Log in to the administrator account and continue to the next phase. Your device will now restart and boot into Safe Mode. In the confirmation dialog box, click Restart. Switch to the Boot tabĬlick “Safe boot,” and then click Apply and Ok. Open the System Configuration window by typing in “msconfig” in the Run Command box. Here’s how to boot into Safe Mode in Windows 11: The purpose of booting into Safe Mode is to avoid the running of unnecessary apps, programs, and services that may hinder the process. We have divided these methods into different parts so that you can keep track of the activity while performing it.īefore you begin, make sure that you have access to an administrator account. However, there seems to be a method that does the trick of taking ownership of Windows Defender files and folders, and then removing all permissions. However, none of these have worked for us so far. I have tested most of the methods available on the Internet, including Windows Registry manipulation, disabling services, and removal of the Wdboot driver.


Therefore, it is not a means to disable Windows Defender permanently. However, this GPO is also reset when the Windows 11 device is restarted. There is a Group Policy Object (GPO) in Windows 11 by the name “ Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus” which is supposed to turn off the Defender once enabled. Disable Windows Defender in Windows 11 Permanently However, Windows Defender will re-enable itself the next time the device is restarted. This will temporarily disable only the real-time protection component from your Windows Defender, which means that you should be able to install any app or program that was being prevented by it.

Toggle the slider under “Real-time protection” to the Off position. Manage virus and threat protection settings Navigate to the following: Settings app > privacy & security > Windows Security > Virus and Threat ProtectionĬlick on the “Manage settings” under the “Virus & threat protection” section. Our first step will be to temporarily disable Defender. Disable Windows Defender in Windows 11 Permanentlyĭisable Windows Defender in Windows 11 Temporarily.Disable Windows Defender in Windows 11 Temporarily.
