How To Manually Disable Windows Defender In Windows 8

Users will be well aware that Windows 8 has a built-in security system to protect them from malware and spyware. Called Windows Defender, this protection system provides the same protection from malwares and spywares as Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) gives. You can also use Windows 8 compatible security suite from third-party vendors to protect your PC and the Windows Defender will automatically get turn off. However, would you like to disable Windows Defender manually?


Of course, there is no need to disable Windows Defender on your system. However, if you want to install a third party antivirus application, sometimes it may need you. Follow these simple steps to disable Windows Defender in Windows 8.

Search Windows Defender in the Apps list (Click Win + F keys to get search box) and open Windows Defender.

Under Settings tab, select “Administrator” from the left side of the window. Now uncheck the option “Turn on Windows Defender” and click on save changes. A pop up window will appear saying Windows Defender has been disabled.

Now you can install any third party anti-virus application easily, however not Microsoft Security Essentials. When you uninstall third party antivirus application, the Windows Defender will re-enables automatically upon restarting the system.