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Is turning off Windows Security a bad idea in 2026? A PC expert's bottom line

ID: 5dda8261-bef4-555f-848e-9aac5f9d5212

STIX ID: report--5dda8261-bef4-555f-848e-9aac5f9d5212

Feed Name: ZDNet Security

Date Published: 2026-01-09

Date Updated: 2026-04-26

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This ZDNET guide explains when and how to disable Windows Security (Microsoft Defender) on Windows 11, covering temporary deactivation through the app and permanent methods via Group Policy (Pro) or the Registry (Home), with clear cautions about increased risk and potential system instability. It also advises creating a system restore point and provides steps to re-enable protection after completing software installations or tests.

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