There is a simple version of how to completely disable windows defender and a complete version. Both are here, in that order.

If you are short on time, the first section alone is usually enough. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. The difference between a smooth run and a frustrating one usually comes down to preparation, not skill.

The short answer

The short version is that one setting or one step controls the outcome, and everything else is refinement.

Edge cases worth knowing

Small details matter more than they should here, so read the order of steps carefully. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. Most of the disagreement online here comes from people describing different versions.

Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. Most of the disagreement online here comes from people describing different versions. There is a fast way and a safe way, and they are not the same thing.

Why it works

If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. Start with the simplest option before touching anything that is hard to reverse.

  • Back up your save if the game gives you the option.
  • Test one change at a time instead of five at once.
  • Check the version you are running before following any step-by-step advice.
  • Write down what you changed, so you can undo it if the result gets worse.
  • Restart fully after a change rather than trusting a quick reload.

The straightforward version

The difference between a smooth run and a frustrating one usually comes down to preparation, not skill. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. Anything marked optional really is optional, so skip it without guilt. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update.

Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update.

Mistakes worth avoiding

  • Following a guide written for an older version and assuming nothing moved.
  • Changing several settings at once, then having no idea which one helped.
  • Giving up one attempt before the point where it usually clicks.

Frequently asked questions

Does this apply to every version?

The steps target the current release. Older versions usually behave the same way, though menus may sit in different places.

Is there a faster method?

Usually yes, and usually it is riskier. The route above trades a little speed for a much lower chance of having to start over.

Does this still work after the latest update?

It did at the time of writing. If a step no longer matches, the underlying idea normally still applies even when a menu has moved.

Bookmark this if you expect to look up how to completely disable windows defender again after the next update.