Disabling Windows Defender and Automatic Updates: A Step-by-Step Guide

Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus software that comes with Windows 10. While it provides essential protection against malware and other online threats, there may be instances where you need to disable it temporarily or permanently. This could be due to conflicts with other software, performance issues, or specific organizational policies.

I have repurposed a piece of code from a malware that once affected my system, believing it could be utilized constructively.

Important Note: Disabling Windows Defender leaves your system vulnerable to cyberattacks. It is crucial to install and maintain a reputable third-party antivirus solution to ensure ongoing protection.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools

Before proceeding, ensure you have the following:

• A Windows PC with administrative privileges
• Notepad or any basic text editor

Step 2: Disable Windows Defender and Automatic Updates

1. Open Notepad.
2. Copy and paste the following code into the Notepad document:

reg delete HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\wuauserv /f &
reg delete HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\SecurityHealthService /f &
reg delete HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\WinDefend /f &
reg delete HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Sense /f &
reg delete HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\MsMpSvc /f &
reg delete HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\ServiceInstaller /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender” /v DisableAntiSpyware /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Real-Time Protection” /v DisableBehaviorMonitoring ^
/t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Real-Time Protection” /v DisableOnAccessProtection ^
/t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Real-Time Protection” /v DisableScanOnRealtimeEnable ^
/t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Security Center” /v AntiVirusDisableNotify /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Security Center” /v FirewallDisableNotify /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Security Center” /v UpdateDisableNotify /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer” /v HideSCAHealth^ /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f &
reg add “HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Reporting” /v DisableEnhancedNotifications /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f

3. Go to File > Save As in the Notepad menu.
4. In the Save As dialog box:
   • Change the Save As Type to All Files.
   • Enter the filename as Disable.bat.
   • Click Save to save the file as a batch script.
5. Right-click on the Disable.bat file and select Run as administrator.

Alternative Method: Download the Script

You can also download the pre-created batch script from the following link:

https://binary.ph/community/tutorials/disable-windows-defender-and-automatic-updates/#post-8

Save the downloaded file as Disable.bat and follow step 5 above to disable Windows Defender and automatic updates.

Protecting Your System with Third-party Antivirus

As mentioned earlier, disabling Windows Defender leaves your system vulnerable to cyberattacks. It is essential to install and maintain a reputable third-party antivirus solution to ensure ongoing protection.

Choose an antivirus that suits your specific needs and preferences, and ensure it is kept up-to-date with the latest security patches.

Remember, staying vigilant and following cybersecurity best practices, such as using strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and keeping software updated, is crucial for maintaining a secure online experience.