Turn Off Enhanced Notifications in Windows Defender - Guide

Managing Windows Defender Notifications in Windows 10

Following the Anniversary Update for Windows 10, Windows Defender began providing notifications for actions previously handled silently. Users desiring a return to the previous, less verbose notification system can disable these enhanced notifications.

Disabling Enhanced Notifications

Previously, Windows Defender operated with minimal user interruption. Now, it informs you each time a scan is completed, or a minor threat is neutralized. If you find these notifications disruptive, reverting to the quieter operation is straightforward.

Begin by opening the Windows Settings application. This can be achieved by clicking the Start button and then selecting the Settings icon, or by utilizing the keyboard shortcut Windows+I.

Within the Windows Settings window, navigate to the "Update & security" section.

Accessing Windows Defender Settings

In the "Update & security" settings, select "Windows Defender" from the options presented in the left-hand pane.

On the subsequent screen, locate and disable the "Enhanced notifications" toggle switch, positioned towards the bottom of the window.

This simple adjustment will restore the previous notification behavior of Windows Defender.

Benefits of Adjusting Notification Settings

While increased information can be beneficial, providing peace of mind through detailed reporting of Defender’s activities, the frequency of these notifications can be undesirable for some users.

Microsoft has provided a convenient method to disable these new enhanced notifications. Importantly, disabling enhanced notifications does not prevent alerts regarding critical events requiring user intervention; you will still be informed of significant security concerns.

Windows Defender continues to protect your system, even with these notifications turned off.