Windows Defender FPS Drops Fix 2026
## Direct Answer
To fix Windows Defender FPS drops in 2026, disable the “Behavioral Detection” and “Cloud Protection” features, then adjust the “Real-time Protection” settings. This can be done by following these steps: go to Windows Defender > Virus & threat protection > Virus & threat protection settings, and toggle off the mentioned features.
## Step-by-Step Guide
1. **Open Windows Defender**: Click on the Start button and search for “Windows Defender”.
2. **Access Virus & Threat Protection Settings**: Click on “Virus & threat protection” from the left menu, then click on “Virus & threat protection settings”.
3. **Disable Behavioral Detection**: Toggle off the “Behavioral detection” switch.
4. **Disable Cloud Protection**: Toggle off the “Cloud protection” switch.
5. **Adjust Real-time Protection Settings**: Click on “Manage settings” under “Real-time protection” and adjust the settings to your preferences.
6. **Restart Your Computer**: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
## FAQ
### Q: What causes Windows Defender FPS drops?
A: Windows Defender’s real-time protection and behavioral detection features can cause FPS drops in games.
### Q: Will disabling these features make my computer vulnerable?
A: Disabling these features may reduce the security of your computer, but you can adjust the real-time protection settings to balance security and performance.
### Q: Are there any alternative antivirus software that don’t cause FPS drops?
A: Yes, some antivirus software like Norton and Kaspersky are designed to minimize performance impact on gaming computers.
### Q: Can I re-enable the features when I’m not gaming?
A: Yes, you can re-enable the features when you’re not gaming to maintain the full security features of Windows Defender.