How to disable Microsoft Antimalware and Windows Defender in Windows OS - WKB48255
Article number: 48255
OBJECTIVE or GOAL
Disable the Microsoft Antimalware service. (This service can cause communication problems with Waters instruments and software.)
ENVIRONMENT
- Windows OS (multiple versions)
- All Waters instruments and software platforms
- Empower
- MassLynx
- NuGenesis
- waters_connect
- UNIFI
PROCEDURE
Note: Microsoft have made changes to Windows 11 and some Windows 10 versions. Unless a non-Microsoft antivirus/antimalware solution is installed then Defender Antivirus software is ON by default. It cannot be disabled. See this Microsoft article: Microsoft Defender Antivirus compatibility with other security products. and this article: Microsoft Windows Defender keeps switching on - WKB329302
If you have alternative antivirus software installed follow this procedure to disable the Microsoft Antimalware service
- Open Windows services by clicking on the Windows start button, type "services" into the text search box, and open the services program.
- Locate Windows Defender from the list of services.
- Right-click > properties > select Startup type as "disabled".
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Windows Defender could also be turned off without disabling the service:
- Control Panel > Windows Defender
- Tools > Options > Administrator
- Deselect (uncheck) the "Use this program" box