Windows defender update when WD is not running

[Jean Rosenfeld]

I get Windows defender updates from Windows updates.

I had deactivated WD (unchecked 'use Windows Defender') because it seemed to
be causing some slowdowns and icons not appearing in system information
section on startup.
I noticed that Windows update was not offering me the latest WD update (it
did offer an updated for .NET framework, so it was working).
I then set WD to run, went back to Windows update and this time it did offer
me the WD update.

Why does Windows update not recognise that WD is installed and so requires
the updates, when it is not running?

 

[Pat Willener]

Not quite sure - why would WD need definition updates if it is deactivated?

 

[Bill Sanderson]

That's how it works--it is a design decision. Setting it to deactivated
essentially turns the application off. It should update once you re-check
that box, and you can always update manually via
www.microsoft.com/security/portal if you wish.

 

[Jean Rosenfeld]

Thanks for explanation. At least I now know it's normal and take appropriate
measures when I want to update or use WD.

 

[Bill Sanderson]

You're welcome. This is the first post I've seen reflecting this aspect of
the "Windows Defender is part of the OS" decision--and I'm glad you posted
it. This is the kind of feedback which is useful for design decisions on
future versions. I don't think this will change for Windows 7, and the next
version is too far away for me to speculate on, though.

Thanks!