Microsoft Security Essentials is available for Windows 7, Vista and XP, but it was replaced by Windows Defender in Windows 8. Like its predecessor, Windows Defender also has an option to turn it off.

Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP), Microsoft's security software that combines end-point security and data collection with cloud analytics, has hitherto been unique to Windows 10.

If Micosoft Defender does not turn off even when you have installed 3rd party AntiVirus, then learn how to turn off Windows Defender.

Why Turn Off Windows Defender Despite its essential role in Windows security, there are good reasons to disable Windows Defender.

Learn how to Disable, Enable or Turn Off or On the default Windows Defender Firewall. To permanently disable Windows Firewall, disable the Firewall Service.