Windows 11 is warning people that Defender Antivirus has been turned off, but don't worry, says Microsoft
Microsoft has confirmed that recent Windows 11 notifications claiming Defender Antivirus is disabled are a software bug. Users are advised that their security remains active and a fix is currently in development.
Why it matters
False security alerts can cause unnecessary user panic and lead to risky behavior like disabling actual security software to 'fix' the notification.
By Simon Batt Published Aug 29, 2026, 11:30 PM EDT Simon is a Computer Science BSc graduate who has been writing about technology since 2014, and using Windows machines since 3.1. After working for an indie game studio and acting as the family's go-to technician for all computer issues, he found his passion for writing and decided to use his skill set to write about all things tech. Since beginning his writing career, he has written for many different publications such as WorldStart , Listverse , and MakeTechEasier . However, after finding his home at MakeUseOf in February 2019, he would eventually move on to its sister site, XDA, to bring the latest and greatest in Windows, Linux, and DIY electronics.
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