Sometimes, you may need to temporarily disable your antivirus in Windows 11 — maybe you’re installing software that’s being falsely flagged, troubleshooting a system issue, or testing something on your PC. Whatever the reason, Windows 11 makes it pretty straightforward to turn off Microsoft’s built-in antivirus, known as Windows Security (Microsoft Defender).
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to do it step by step, explain when it’s a good idea (and when it isn’t), and share a few safety tips to keep your PC secure while your antivirus is off.
What Is Windows Security (Microsoft Defender)?
Windows Security is Microsoft’s built-in antivirus solution that protects your PC from malware, viruses, and other threats. It runs automatically in the background and updates itself regularly — which is great for most users.
But in some cases, this real-time protection can get in the way, especially if you’re installing legitimate software that Defender thinks is suspicious.
Important Warning Before You Disable Antivirus
Turning off antivirus protection leaves your PC vulnerable. Only disable it if:
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You trust the file or program you’re installing.
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You plan to turn it back on immediately after finishing the task.
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You have no internet connection while antivirus is off (to avoid accidental downloads of malicious files).
Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Off Antivirus in Windows 11
Ready to turn it off? Here’s exactly how to do it.
Step 1: Open Windows Security
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Press Windows + S to open Search.
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Type Windows Security and click the result.
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This will open the Windows Security dashboard.
Step 2: Go to Virus & Threat Protection
Inside Windows Security:
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Click on Virus & threat protection from the left-hand menu.
This is where all antivirus settings live.
Step 3: Manage Settings
Scroll down to find Virus & threat protection settings.
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Click Manage settings under this section.
Step 4: Turn Off Real-Time Protection
Now you’ll see a toggle switch for Real-time protection.
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Switch it Off.
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Windows will ask for confirmation (via UAC prompt). Click Yes to approve.
That’s it — your antivirus is now off temporarily.
How to Turn Antivirus Back On
Real-time protection usually turns itself back on after a restart or after some time. But if you want to re-enable it manually:
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Go back to Virus & threat protection > Manage settings.
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Switch Real-time protection back to On.
How to Permanently Disable Windows Defender (Not Recommended)
If you really need to completely disable Windows Defender for good (for example, when using another antivirus), you can do so via Group Policy or Registry Editor — but this is only recommended for advanced users.
Method 1: Using Group Policy Editor
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Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter. -
Navigate to:
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Double-click Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
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Select Enabled and click Apply > OK.
Method 2: Using Registry Editor
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Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. -
Navigate to:
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Right-click on the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
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Name it DisableAntiSpyware.
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Set its value to 1.
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Restart your PC.
(Again, this is not recommended unless you’re installing another security solution.)
Troubleshooting: Antivirus Turns Back On Immediately
If your antivirus keeps re-enabling itself right away, it’s by design — Windows tries to protect you. Possible fixes:
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Make sure no other security policies override your changes.
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Disable Tamper Protection in Windows Security settings (temporarily).
When You Shouldn’t Turn Off Antivirus
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When browsing unknown websites.
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When downloading files from untrusted sources.
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When your PC is already showing signs of infection.
Tips to Stay Safe While Antivirus Is Off
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Disconnect from Wi-Fi/Internet while antivirus is disabled.
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Scan the file manually after turning protection back on.
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Enable it immediately once you’re done.
Conclusion
Turning off antivirus in Windows 11 is simple, but it should only be done for trusted tasks and as a temporary measure. Windows Security is there to keep you safe, so remember to turn it back on after you’re done installing or troubleshooting.
FAQs
Q1: Is it safe to turn off Windows 11 antivirus?
Yes, but only for a short time and if you trust the files you’re working with.
Q2: Can I turn off antivirus permanently?
Yes, but it’s not recommended unless you install another antivirus solution.
Q3: Will antivirus turn back on automatically?
Yes, in most cases, Windows Defender will re-enable after a reboot.
Q4: Do I need admin rights to disable antivirus?
Yes, you need administrator privileges to turn off real-time protection.
Q5: Can I disable antivirus without opening Windows Security?
Yes, you can use PowerShell or Group Policy, but the Control Panel method is easiest for most users.