Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus program on Windows 11 designed to protect your computer from threats. However, sometimes it may block third-party antivirus software like Avast, causing conflicts. This can lead to reduced protection or error messages.
If you want to use Avast as your main antivirus, it’s important to ensure Windows Defender does not interfere. Fixing this issue involves adjusting some security settings in Windows 11.
This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to stop Windows Defender from blocking Avast. Each step is explained clearly to help you follow along without confusion.
By the end, you’ll know how to configure your system so both programs can coexist or allow Avast to work without interruption.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure Avast is properly installed and updated to the latest version.
- Ensure Windows 11 has the latest system updates installed for compatibility.
- Backup important files before making changes to security settings, as a precaution.
- Be aware that disabling Windows Defender entirely can leave your PC vulnerable if Avast is not functioning correctly.
Step 1: Turn Off Real-Time Protection in Windows Defender
Windows Defender’s real-time protection can conflict with Avast if both are trying to scan files simultaneously. Turning off this feature allows Avast to run without interference.
- Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
- Go to Privacy & security in the left menu.
- Click on Windows Security.
- Press Virus & threat protection.
- Under Virus & threat protection settings, click Manage settings.
- Toggle off Real-time protection.
Note: This temporarily disables Windows Defender’s active scanning, allowing Avast to take full control.
Step 2: Add Avast as an Exclusion in Windows Defender
Adding Avast folders and processes as exclusions prevents Windows Defender from scanning or blocking Avast components.
- Open Settings and navigate back to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Click Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
- Scroll down to Exclusions and click Add or remove exclusions.
- Choose Add an exclusion > Folder.
- Browse to the Avast installation folder, typically
C:Program FilesAvast Software, and select it. - Repeat this for any other Avast folders or files you want to exclude.
This tells Windows Defender to ignore Avast files, reducing conflicts and false detections.
Step 3: Disable Windows Defender Temporarily via Group Policy (Advanced)
If you want to fully disable Windows Defender and rely only on Avast, you can do so through Group Policy Editor. This method is recommended for advanced users or business PCs.
- Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor. - Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
- Double-click on Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
- Select Enabled, then click Apply and OK.
- Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Warning: Disabling Defender means no built-in protection is active, so ensure Avast is running perfectly.
Alternative Method: Use Avast’s Built-in Conflict Resolver
Avast includes tools designed to detect and resolve software conflicts automatically. You can try this if manual steps are complicated.
- Open Avast Antivirus.
- Go to Menu > Settings.
- Navigate to Troubleshooting.
- Click on Resolve Conflicts or similar options if available.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to fix detected issues.
FAQs
Why does Windows Defender block Avast?
Windows Defender may detect Avast files as suspicious due to overlapping antivirus functions, leading to conflicts or false positives.
Can I run Windows Defender and Avast together?
Running both simultaneously is not recommended because it can cause system slowdowns and software conflicts. It’s best to disable Defender if you prefer Avast.
Will disabling Windows Defender make my PC unsafe?
Disabling Defender without having a reliable third-party antivirus active can increase security risks. Always ensure Avast is fully operational before disabling Defender.
How do I know if Avast is working correctly?
Open Avast and check its dashboard. It should show that protection is active and updated with no errors.
What if Avast still gets blocked after these steps?
Double-check exclusions, update both Windows and Avast, and consider reinstalling Avast if problems persist.
When Nothing Works
If you continue facing issues, you can try these final options:
- Reinstall Avast: Uninstall Avast completely, restart your PC, and install the latest version from the official Avast website.
- Reset Windows Security: Use PowerShell commands to reset Windows Security settings, but only if you are comfortable with command-line tools.
- Contact Support: Visit the official Avast Support or Microsoft Support for personalized help.
Conclusion
Conflicts between Windows Defender and Avast on Windows 11 can disrupt your antivirus protection. The simplest fix is to disable Defender’s real-time protection and add Avast as an exclusion. For more control, you can fully disable Defender via Group Policy.
Always ensure Avast is up to date and working properly before making changes to Windows Defender. With these steps, you can enjoy seamless antivirus protection without software conflicts.