How to disable Defender Antivirus on Windows 11

Note: if you want to prevent scanning of specific folders from antivirus then you can do it with the exclusion feature of Windows Defender. there is no need to disable the entire Windows Defender because it makes your PC vulnerable.

If you install non-Microsoft antivirus, Microsoft Defender antivirus automatically turns itself off.

1. How to exclude specific folders from defender

To exclude specific folders from defender antivirus then goto start>setting>updateand security>virus and threat protection.

Under Select manage setting, click on exclusion, and select Add or remove exclusion.

Add your preferred file or folder location and save it windows defender will not scan that folder or file until you remove it from this settings.

2. Turn off Windows Defender temporary

1. Type "Windows Security" and click on the "Windows Security" app in the search results. This will open the Windows Security interface.

2. In the Windows Security window, click on the "Virus & threat protection" option.

3. Under the "Virus & threat protection settings" section, click on "Manage settings." You might need to provide administrative permission to proceed.

4. Scroll down to the "Real-time protection" section and click on the toggle switch to turn off real-time protection. A warning message will appear, informing you about the risks of turning off the antivirus protection. Confirm your decision to disable it.