Windows Vista/Seven Speed Secret #17: Disable Automatic Windows Defender Operation

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