According to MakeUseOf, a writer who uninstalled their antivirus software after repeated system freezes discovered their PC actually became safer and more stable. Windows Security, previously considered basic during the Windows 7 era, now uses cloud-based machine learning, automatic sample submission, and SmartScreen reputation checks. Between 2013 and 2016, Windows Defender scored between 0.5 and 3.5 in AV-TEST’s independent security testing, but has since improved to a near-perfect 6 for protection. The writer also learned that antivirus software itself can become a target – Google’s Project Zero researchers found several popular anti-malware tools had high-severity vulnerabilities. Performance improved dramatically after removal, with faster boot times and no more annoying pop-ups creating security fatigue.
The Windows Security surprise
Here’s the thing – most of us still operate on outdated assumptions about Windows Defender. We remember the Windows 7 days when it was basically a bare minimum protection. But Microsoft has been quietly building what’s essentially an enterprise-grade security suite right into the operating system. And it’s free. The cloud-based machine learning means it’s constantly updating its threat detection without you even noticing. SmartScreen reputation checks happen automatically when you download files. Basically, Windows is doing most of the heavy lifting whether you install third-party antivirus or not.
When security becomes the vulnerability
This was the real eye-opener for me. Antivirus software needs deep system access to do its job – it installs drivers and runs with full privileges. But that means any vulnerability in the antivirus itself becomes a golden ticket for attackers. Google’s Project Zero research showed how flawed file parsers and insecure network filters in popular antivirus tools created major security holes. There was even malware in 2024 that exploited an Avast/AVG kernel driver to disable security software entirely. So you’re adding this massive, privileged code base to your system, and suddenly your “protection” might actually be your biggest vulnerability.
The performance tax
Let’s be honest – we’ve all felt it. That moment when your antivirus decides to run a full scan right when you’re trying to get work done. The writer noticed immediate improvements after uninstalling: faster boot times, no more browser stuttering, and an end to background task spikes. And they’re not alone – this Reddit thread shows countless complaints about AVG specifically slowing systems. But it’s not just about raw performance. The constant pop-ups and upgrade prompts create what security experts call “alert fatigue.” You get so used to ignoring warnings that when a real threat appears, you might miss it entirely.
Modern threats need modern protection
The old antivirus model was built around signature-based detection – basically matching files against a database of known malware. But modern threats don’t play by those rules anymore. We’re dealing with fileless attacks, PowerShell abuse, and living-off-the-land techniques where malware hides in legitimate system processes. Windows Security is actually better equipped for this new reality with its behavior-based detection. SmartScreen blocks suspicious downloads before they even start, and cloud protection can flag unusual activity within seconds. The shift here is fundamental – we’re moving from looking for bad files to monitoring for bad behavior.
So should you delete your antivirus?
Look, I’m not saying everyone should immediately uninstall their antivirus. Premium suites still offer value with bundled extras like VPNs, identity monitoring, or parental controls. But for the average user? Windows Security combined with smart browsing habits might be all you need. The writer found themselves becoming more security-conscious – being careful with downloads, skeptical of email attachments, and using browser security extensions. And honestly, that behavioral change might be more valuable than any software. Your computer’s built-in protections have gotten really good, and sometimes the best security upgrade is just getting out of their way.
