Is it best to have Microsoft Defender installed while running Norton 360?

Norton 360 for Windows
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Issue abstract: Microsoft Defender

Detailed description: Run Defender with 360 or not?

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This Norton article says to disable periodic scanning with Windows Defender:

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All: When third party antiviral software is installed in Windows, all the functions of Defender are disabled with the exception of Windows Firewall. It is excluded so that Windows Updates performs correctly and nothing more. As stated by Geek007 having periodic scanning enabled in Windows Defender can cause issues with A/V software functionality. More info here:

AI Overview

You can run Microsoft Defender’s limited periodic scanning as a secondary backup tool alongside a third-party antivirus on Windows 10 and 11. [1, 2]

When a third-party antivirus is active, Microsoft Defender automatically turns off its real-time protection. Enabling periodic scanning lets Defender run automatic, lightweight background checks using a limited feature set without conflicting with your main security app. Opinions are mixed on forums like Reddit regarding whether it is necessary, as some users find it redundant or prone to minor alert overlaps, while others appreciate the extra second opinion. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

How to Enable Periodic Scanning

  • Open the Start menu and type Windows Security.

  • Select Virus & threat protection from the menu.

  • Look below your listed third-party antivirus provider and click on Microsoft Defender Antivirus options.

  • Switch the Periodic scanning (or Limited periodic scanning) toggle to On. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Important Details

  • Frequency: Defender runs these quick scans automatically (usually about twice a week) when you are not actively using your computer.

  • Limitations: It only uses a small subset of Defender’s capabilities and is not meant to replace full real-time protection.

  • Conflicts: Some third-party suites (like Norton) may display an advisory prompt when this setting is active, as they prefer managing all scanning themselves. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Further Exploration

  • Read official instructions on Microsoft Learn to enable limited periodic scanning.

  • Review third-party guidance from NinjaOne

SA