Deactivate Microsoft Defender (MDATP) on managed Mac

Deactivate Microsoft Defender (MDATP) on managed Mac

If you are using a managed Mac computer and want to deactivate Microsoft Defender (MDATP), here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. Please note that this guide is intended for entry-level users.

Step 1: Open Microsoft Defender Security Center

Start by opening the Microsoft Defender Security Center application on your Mac. You can find it in the Applications folder or by searching for it using Spotlight (press Command + Space and type "Microsoft Defender Security Center").

Step 2: Access Settings

Once the Microsoft Defender Security Center is open, click on the gear icon located in the bottom left corner of the window. This will open the Settings menu.

Step 3: Disable Real-Time Protection

In the Settings menu, locate the "Real-time protection" option. By default, it should be enabled. Click on the toggle switch next to it to turn off real-time protection.

<img src="real-time-protection.png" alt="Real-time Protection" />

Disabling real-time protection will prevent Microsoft Defender from actively scanning your Mac for threats in real-time. However, it's important to note that this does not fully deactivate Microsoft Defender.

Step 4: Disable Cloud-Delivered Protection

In the same Settings menu, find the "Cloud-delivered protection" option. Again, it should be enabled by default. Click on the toggle switch to turn it off.

<img src="cloud-delivered-protection.png" alt="Cloud-delivered Protection" />

Disabling cloud-delivered protection will prevent Microsoft Defender from using the cloud to enhance threat detection on your Mac.

Step 5: Confirm Deactivation

After disabling both real-time protection and cloud-delivered protection, Microsoft Defender will be deactivated on your managed Mac. However, it's always a good idea to confirm the deactivation. You can do this by checking the main window of the Microsoft Defender Security Center, where it should display a message indicating that protection is off.

<img src="deactivation-confirmation.png" alt="Deactivation Confirmation" />

Step 6: Keep Your Mac Protected

While Microsoft Defender is deactivated, it's essential to have an alternative security solution installed on your Mac to ensure its protection. Speak to your IT department or follow your organization's guidelines to install a suitable antivirus software.

Remember, keeping your Mac protected is crucial to safeguard your data and privacy from potential threats.

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