Information
This policy setting turns off Microsoft Defender Antivirus. If the setting is configured to Disabled, Microsoft Defender Antivirus runs and computers are scanned for malware and other potentially unwanted software.
The recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.
Rationale:
It is important to ensure a current, updated antivirus product is scanning each computer for malicious file activity. Microsoft provides a competent solution out of the box in Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
Organizations that choose to purchase a reputable 3rd-party antivirus solution may choose to exempt themselves from this recommendation in lieu of the commercial alternative.
Impact:
None - this is the default behavior.
Solution
To establish the recommended configuration, set the following Device Configuration Policy to Disabled:
To access the Device Configuration Policy from the Intune Home page:
Click Devices
Click Configuration profiles
Click Create profile
Select the platform (Windows 10 and later)
Select the profile (Administrative Templates)
Click Create
Enter a Name
Click Next
Configure the following Setting
Path: Computer Configuration\Windows Components\Microsoft Defender Antivirus
Setting Name: Turn off Microsoft Defender AntiVirus
Configuration: Disabled
Select OK
Continue through the Wizard to complete the creation of the profile (profile assignments, applicability etc.)
Note: More than one configuration setting from each of the Configuration profiles (ex: Administrative Templates, Custom etc.) can be added to each Device Configuration Policy.
Default Value:
Disabled. (Microsoft Defender Antivirus runs and computers are scanned for malware and other potentially unwanted software.)