In addition, it also removes any startup items that defined as Windows Defender related (only useful in earlier version of Windows). So this method is useful if your home edition of Windows 10 does not come with Local Group Policy Editor. The following changes to registry essentially implements the group policy that turns off Windows Defender as outlined in method 2 above. Method 4: Remove Auto Startup and Disable Windows Defender via Registry

If applicable, click or tap on Yes on User Account Control dialog prompt to allow the app makes changes to the system.

Under the “Real-time protection” section, toggle the slider to Off.

Go to Update & security -> Windows Defender.

In Windows 10 RTM, Windows 10 November Update and Windows 10 Anniversary Update: This method is temporary, until the next system reboot. Method 3: Turn Off Real-Time Protection of Windows Defender You may need to restart the computer for the change to take effect.

Select Enabled radio button to disable the Windows Defender.

In the right pane, double click on Turn off Windows Defender or Turn off Windows Defender Antivirus.

Navigate to Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Defender (in Windows 10 RTM / v1511 / v1607) or Windows Defender Antivirus (in Windows 10 v1703 or later).

Open Local Group Policy Editor ( GPedit.msc).

Method 2: Disable Windows Defender via Group Policy For example, Symantec, Norton, McAfee, Kaspersky, AVG, Comodo, 360, Avira, Panda, ZoneAlarm, ESET and etc. Windows 10 disables Windows Defender when it detects another antivirus security protection software is installed. Method 1: Install Another Antivirus or Anti-Malware Security Software If you want to get rid of Windows Defender Security Center icon on the Taskbar (which is available since Windows 10 Version 1703) even after you have installed another antivirus software or have disabled Windows Defender, here’s how to remove the Windows Defender notification icon.

Windows defender periodic scanning