To temporarily stop Microsoft Defender Antivirus from scanning files in real time, open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings and switch Real-time protection off. Microsoft says the protection turns back on automatically after a short while. This does not permanently remove Defender or turn off every Windows Security feature.
Turn off real-time protection
- Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
- Select Virus & threat protection.
- Under Virus & threat protection settings, select Manage settings.
- Switch Real-time protection to Off. Approve a Windows permission prompt if one appears.
Microsoft’s current guidance uses the Windows Security app path above for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Labels or navigation can vary slightly by version. Microsoft’s older Windows 10 instructions also describe reaching Windows Security through Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security. See Microsoft’s Windows Security guidance and its Virus and threat protection instructions.
Why the switch may be unavailable
Tamper Protection may prevent changes to Defender settings. Microsoft says to turn Tamper Protection off before switching off Real-time protection. In Windows Security, open Virus & threat protection > Manage settings, find Tamper Protection, and switch it off; then return to Real-time protection. Tamper Protection helps prevent apps from changing important Defender settings. Turning it off reduces that safeguard. Microsoft explains the requirement in its Windows Security instructions.
What happens while real-time protection is off
Files you open or download while Real-time protection is off are not scanned by that real-time feature. Microsoft says scheduled scans continue, but downloaded or installed files may not be checked until the next scheduled scan. Turn Real-time protection back on as soon as the task is complete if it has not already resumed automatically. Microsoft’s support guidance describes this temporary behavior.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems#1 Best Overall
- 1.1 GHz (boost up to 2.4GHz) Intel Celeron N5030 Quad-Core
If no other security product is available, Microsoft warns that disabling Defender leaves the device vulnerable to malware. Defender may turn on automatically if there is no other security product or the other product has expired. See Microsoft’s antivirus and antimalware FAQ.
Use a narrower option for a single file or folder
If Defender is incorrectly flagging one trusted file, file type, folder, or process, an exclusion is more targeted than turning off all real-time protection. In Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage settings, find Exclusions and choose Add or remove exclusions to add the specific item.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
An excluded item is no longer checked by Defender’s real-time scanning. Scheduled scans or third-party antimalware may still scan it, so exclude only items you trust; an exclusion is a security trade-off, not a general performance fix. Microsoft details exclusions in its Windows Security guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Switching to another antivirus
Microsoft says compatible non-Microsoft antivirus software automatically turns Defender Antivirus off. It advises against running multiple real-time antivirus or antispyware products at the same time because performance can be affected and errors may occur. Check that another product supports your Windows version and provides the protection you need; do not assume every product is compatible. Microsoft’s FAQ and Windows Security instructions cover these points.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Efficient Performance】 Powered by Intel Core i3 processor (2 cores, 4 threads, up to 3.4GHz) with 12GB RAM and 256GB SSD. Handles multitasking, office software, online classes, and HD video streaming smoothly. Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Backlit Keyboard & Complete Package】Comes with a cool backlit keyboard. Comes with awebcam, dual stereo speakers (8Ω/1.0W each), DC charger, and user manual – ready for late-night studying, online classes, video conferencing, and daily productivity
- 【Vibrant Display】 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with 16:9 aspect ratio delivers crisp images and vivid colors – perfect for studying, watching lectures, or entertainment. Thin-bezel design maximizes viewing area
- 【Fast Connectivity & Expansion】 Equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable, high-speed wireless. Features 3 x USB 3.0, HDMI 2.1, Type-C (supports PD3.0 fast charging), and a TF card slot expandable up to 2TB – easily connect external monitors, mice, drives, or expand storage for all your files
- 【Long Battery Life & Portable】 Built-in 11.55V 5000mAh/57.75Wh high-capacity battery delivers approximately 7 hours of mixed-use battery life – enough for a full day of classes and assignments. Lightweight at just 1.63kg (3.6 lbs) and 19.5mm thin, plus a compact packing size – easily slips into a backpack for campus, library, or coffee shop
Rank #4
- EFFORTLESS EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 Home system, delivering reliable, low-power efficiency for daily tasks like document editing, email, online classes, and web browsing
- 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: Enjoy immersive visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920x1080) anti-glare screen with micro-edge bezels. Delivers clear details and comfortable viewing for long study sessions, working on spreadsheets, and video playback
- RESPONSIVE MULTITASKING & STORAGE: Built with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 128GB eMMC storage for smooth daily essential use. Expand your storage by up to 1TB via the integrated TF card slot to easily store movies, photos, and working files
- ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY: Outfitted with 2x Full-Featured Type-C ports for data transfer, fast charging, and dual-monitor output, alongside 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and a 3.5mm audio jack for complete peripheral compatibility
- LIGHTWEIGHT & SILENT OPERATION: Slim and portable for effortless travel or commuting. Features a 1MP HD webcam for remote meetings, 38Wh battery with 45W Type-C fast charging, and a fanless silent design for peaceful work environments.
Rank #3
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
