Windows Security, previously known as Windows Defender, is the default security software in all Windows 11 and 10 devices. This security software is one of the best security software on the market; however, this high performance software may cause issues for users with low-end hardware as Windows Security takes chunks out of their limited system resources.
Whether you are trying to reduce system workload, speed up Windows 11, or simply want to get rid of the Microsoft security solution, this article will teach you how to enable or disable Microsoft Security.
How to enable or disable Microsoft Security
Warning: Disabling Windows Security may put your computer at risk from cyber attacks. Please disable at your own discretion.
- Click on Start ⊞ and select Settings ⚙ , or use Windows + I to quickly open Settings.
- Select Privacy & security in the left pane, then click Windows Security.
- Click on Open Windows Security to open the Windows Security app in a dedicated window.
- In the Windows Security home screen, click on Virus & threat protection.
- Click on Manage settings to reconfigure Windows Security on Windows 11.
- Click the toggle to turn Real-time protection to Off. This will temporarily disable Windows Security on your Windows 11 computer.
- To re-enable Windows Security, click the toggle to turn Real-time protection back to On.
Note: Disabling Microsoft Security is temporary and your computer will turn it back on automatically if it has been disabled for too long.