> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cheesehub-vip.gitbook.io/cheesehub/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cheesehub-vip.gitbook.io/cheesehub/setup-start-here/disable-windows-defender.md).

# Disable Windows Defender

The first step is to disable windows defender using dControl to ensure it is fully deactivated and not causing issues with loading the software.

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{% hint style="info" %}
What is dControl? - A lightweight tool that disables Defender persistently with one click.
{% endhint %}

1. Download [dControl](https://www.sordum.org/files/downloads.php?st-defender-control)
2. Extract the `.zip` file with winrar — **Password:** `sordum`
3. Run `dControl.exe`
4. Click **Disable Windows Defender**
5. Restart your PC.

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{% hint style="success" %}
**Done.** Windows Defender is now disabled. You can re-enable it at any time using the same method in reverse.
{% endhint %}