

Antimalware Service Executable is a process with the file msmpeng.exe as its counterpart. Go through the background processes list in Task Manager. The process is called Antimalware Service Executable in the Task Manager’s Processes tab.


Updating antivirus definitions and whatever else a security program like Windows Defender has to do. Running background system scans to look for malicious software. It’s in charge of scanning files for malware when you open them. However, this feature is off by default.Windows Defender’s Service ”the Antimalware Service Executable” process, always runs in the background. If you see Microsoft Defender using CPU even while you have other antivirus tools installed and want to stop it, head here and ensure the Periodic scanning feature is set to “Off.” If it doesn’t bother you, feel free to enable Periodic scanning-it’s another layer of protection and additional security. On this same screen, you can expand “Microsoft Defender Antivirus options” and enable “Periodic scanning.” Defender will then perform regular background scans even while you’re using another antivirus program, providing a second opinion and potentially catching things your main antivirus might miss. However, there is a way to use both your antivirus program of choice and Microsoft Defender. RELATED: How to Periodically Scan Your Computer With Windows Defender While Using Another Antivirus The process may run in the background, but it shouldn’t use CPU or disk resources attempting to scan your system. This means that Windows Defender is disabled. If you head to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection, you’ll see a message saying “You’re using other antivirus providers” if you have another antivirus program installed and activated. If you do have another antivirus program installed (like Avira or BitDefender), Microsoft Defender will automatically disable itself and get out of your way.
