Note: If you forgot your account info and had to reset your security info, you must wait 60 days before closing your account.

Switch Real-time protection to Off.Note that scheduled scans will continue to run. However, files that are downloaded or installed will not be scanned until the next scheduled scan.

Microsoft support is here to help you with Microsoft products. Find how-to articles, videos, and training for Microsoft Copilot, Microsoft 365, Windows, Surface, and more.

These are the buttons and bars that sit right next to your Start button and cannot be moved.. Search on the taskbar can be set in four ways: either to Search box, which includes a full text box to enter your search (or your Bing Chat prompt; see Using the new Bing on the Windows taskbar for more) into plus additional search highlights, Search icon and label (displaying as a search icon and ...

Here's more info on what permissions allow an app to do: Access all your files, peripheral devices, apps, programs, and registry: The app has the ability to read or write to all your files (including documents, pictures, and music) and registry settings, which allows the app to make changes to your computer and settings. It can use any peripheral devices that are either attached or part of ...

Buy stuff from Microsoft Store online (from your mobile device, on Xbox One, in the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 10/11 or Windows 8.1 device, or via the web).

That verification method isn’t working right now: Sometimes the block may be tied to the verification method you are using.Try using another verification method connected to your account. For example, if you are using SMS to verify yourself and are hitting a block, try using an alternate email that is connected to the account to receive your authorization code.

Tip: If you're a Microsoft 365 Family or Personal subscriber you get Microsoft Defender, our advanced security software for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, as part of your subscription.Learn more at Getting started with Microsoft Defender.

Note: If you don't see Extensions to the right of your browser address bar, select Settings and more > Extensions.

Important: You don't need to remove old security information unless there is an account security risk (e.g. someone else has access to your old mailbox).