How to Disable the Automatic Updates for Windows Defender

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While frequent updates are needed to ensure anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-malware programs maintain current lists of harmful programs, some users may wish to manually install updates. Turning off automatic updates in Window's Defender is not difficult, requiring only a few steps.

Disabling Windows Defender Automatic Updates

Step 1

Click on the "Start" menu. Hover over the "All Programs" tab and click on "Windows Defender."

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Step 2

Click the "Tools" icon shaped like a gear in the upper-center of the Windows Defender screen.

Step 3

Click the "Options" icon (also shaped like a gear) on the left side of the screen.

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Step 4

Notice the check boxes. If you wish to completely turn off automatic scans, uncheck the "Automatically Scan My Computer" box. This will also disable automatic updates.

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If you wish to continue having automatic scans but wish to turn off automatic updates, uncheck the "Check for Updated Definitions Before Scanning" box.

Step 5

Click "Save" in the lower-right corner of the screen. Automatic updates are now disabled for Windows Defender.

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