Hi! Windows Defender is the integrated security solution for Windows systems. In effect, it is the shield that protects the server from local or external threats. Specifically from network threats since they can harm the organization’s services. For that reason, Windows Defender is the ideal solution to safeguard the system. However, there are special circumstances where it is necessary to disable or even uninstall it. For example, in support tasks, configuration errors, or even the purchase of a firewall or external security system. Inattention to those cases, today we will see how to uninstall and disable Windows Defender in Windows Server 2016/2019.
How to disable Windows Defender from the Security settings
Windows Defender is integrated into the security section of the system. Therefore, you only have to access this section. With this intention, press the Win+Q combination and type Security in the search bar.
The security section will be deployed immediately. Please click on Virus & Thread protection settings. Specifically, in Manage settings.
Finally, you only have to deactivate the pin to remove the protection in real-time. This way, Windows Defender will be temporarily suspended.
Disable Windows Defender from PowerShell
Next, we’ll use the PowerShell console to temporarily disable Windows Defender. With this in mind, launch the console and run the following command:
Set-MpPreference -DisableRealtimeMonitoring $true
Once the work is done, you can reactivate Windows Defender using this command:
Set-MpPreference -DisableRealtimeMonitoring $false
How to uninstall Windows Defender from PowerShell
Next we will see how to uninstall Windows Defender. For this we will use again the PowerShell console. Once there, please execute the following command:
Uninstall-WindowsFeature -Name Windows-Defender
After a few seconds, the uninstallation will be complete. Please reboot the server to complete the changes.
A positive aspect of this method is that it is possible to reinstall the service. With this in mind, please execute the following command:
Install-WindowsFeature -Name Windows-Defender
How to uninstall Windows Defender from CMD
Next, we will use the Command Prompt to uninstall Windows Defender. Specifically, we will use the DISM command. In addition, this command allows you to manage the system image. Please proceed with caution, as you will be uninstalling the app and installation package. Consequently, it will not be possible to reinstall Windows Defender. Finally, If you are sure to proceed, run this command from CMD:
Dism /online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:Windows-Defender /Remove /NoRestart /quiet
How to Uninstall Windows Defender from Server Manager
It is well known that the server administrator is a central console that allows managing multiple aspects. This time we will use it to uninstall Windows Defender. With this in mind, click on Manage. Then, select Remove Roles and Features
In the next window, please click next.
Now select the server.
A list of installed features will follow. Please check the box corresponding to Windows Defender. Once you have made your selection, you are ready to begin. Finally, confirm the selection and press Remove to start the process.
After a few moments, Windows Defender will be uninstalled from the system. Please note that to reinstall it, just repeat the process. However, in the wizard please select the Add Roles and Features option.
Conclusion
In the final discussion, we’ve seen numerous ways to disable and uninstall Windows Defender in Windows Server 2016/2019. As you could see, there are graphic and command-line options. The intention is that as an administrator, you have control over the system. Consequently, you will be able to better manage the interests of the company. Before I go, I invite you to see our post about disable automatic updates in Windows Server 2016/2019. Bye!
