Windows Defender real-time protection against malware continues to run despite having Automatic operation disabled.

In actuality, this built-in malware protector from Microsoft is very poor at protecting your computer from external threats. You are much better off using a 3rd-party software program like XoftSpy for total protection (see Vista Speed Secret #9 for more information).

To disable:

1. Click the Start button
2. Type “services” into the Start Search box
3. Find Windows Defender in the list of programs
4. Double-click on Windows Defender
5. Choose Tools from the top menu
6. Select Options
7. Uncheck Auto Start at the bottom of the window

Related posts:

1. Vista Speed Secret #4: Disable Automatic Disk Defragment
2. Windows Vista Tips: Disable Automatic Restart
3. Vista Speed Secret #9: Disable Unused Services
4. Vista Speed Secret #2: Disable Unnecessary Graphical Effects
5. Vista Speed Secret #11: Shut-Off Windows Hibernation