Toggle the Real-time protection switch off. You may receive a User Account Control (UAC) prompt asking if you want to allow the change to occur. Select Yes. When you're ready to turn system protection ...

In a proof-of-concept, a security researcher demonstrated how the Windows Security Center API can be used to block the scans by Microsoft’s built-in antivirus tool. Windows Defender can be tricked ...

There are times when you may want to turn off Windows Security. I'll show you how to (temporarily or permanently) disable it on Windows 11 Home and Pro. I also recommend creating a restore point, and ...

To permanently remove Windows Security, use Local Group Policy Editor, Windows Registry tweaks, or the Windows Defender Remover tool. Be cautious— removal can leave your PC vulnerable. Always back up ...

Update, March 31, 2025: This story, originally published March 29, has been updated with an explanation of LOLBINS as well as further technical information regarding the Windows Defender Application ...