Msmpeng.exe – what is it? A simple explanation

Have you ever asked yourself: “msmpeng exe, what is that”? At first glance, it is not clear what is hidden behind the entry. We will tell you what the program is for.

Msmpeng.exe: What is it and how can you optimize it?

The core process of Windows Defender, msmpeng.exe (Microsoft Malware Protection Engine), is the central component for real-time and background monitoring of the system for malware, viruses, Trojans and other threats. Its main features and functions are real-time protection, background scans, and integration into Microsoft products.

• The program’s main task is to remove spyware to prevent the computer from being infected. The file also scans for viruses and Trojans. The process continuously monitors the system to immediately detect and block potential threats. It checks files that are created, modified, or opened for malicious code.
• In addition to real-time protection, msmpeng.exe performs regular system scans to identify and remove known malware. The process is used in both Windows Defender (for end users) and enterprise solutions such as Forefront Client Security
• However, the process causes high CPU utilization – sometimes for hours at a time – and requires significant system resources, especially during intensive scans. This can cause slowdowns on older or low-performance devices. The process can also use a significant amount of memory, which can be problematic for devices with limited RAM
• There are several solutions to fix performance issues. First, exclude files or folders that are frequently scanned and trusted. This will reduce a large portion of the load. To do this, go to Windows Security ☻ Virus & Threat Protection ☻ Manage settings ☻ Add or remove exclusions.
• If you continue to experience performance issues, you may want to consider switching to a more lightweight antivirus solution. In this case, Windows Defender is automatically disabled. Bitdefender Free Edition is free and offers basic protection with minimal system load. The paid version is the test winner at Stiftung Warentest and AV-Test. The program is certified for outstanding protection and user-friendliness.
• Very good rating from Computer Bild (grade 1.5) was also given to Norton 360 Advanced and McAfee+ Ultimate. While Norton is ideal for advanced users with comprehensive protection needs against phishing and malware, McAfee+ offers a variety of security features and is particularly suitable for families. However, both programs are subject to a fee.

Windows Defender: How to temporarily disable protection

Windows Defender can be temporarily disabled via the Control Panel. If you do not find the files described below, you probably already have another antivirus program. In this case, Windows Defender was terminated when the program was installed.

• If your system is running slowly, it’s worth taking a look at the task manager. Open the program by pressing the CTRL+ALT+DEL keys simultaneously. A blue screen will open. Select Task Manager here.
• Look for the program “Antimalware Service Executable”. The “CPU” column indicates how many resources the process is using. It is not possible to shut down the service directly in Task Manager because it is a protected system service.
• Alternatively, you can temporarily disable Windows Defender. To do this, open the settings via the Start menu or by pressing the Windows key + I.
• Navigate to Update and Security ☻ Windows Security ☻ Virus & Threat Protection ☻ Manage settings. Here, disable “real-time protection”.
• Note: Windows will automatically re-enable protection the next time you restart.

Performance optimization: practical tips for faster Windows Defender

There are numerous other ways to optimize the performance of Windows Defender. This will help you to maintain security while minimizing system slowdowns.

• DefenderUI is a third-party tool that provides a user-friendly interface to optimize hidden settings of Windows Defender. Using the tool’s menu, you can reduce the average CPU usage during scans. Alternatively, you can turn on the “Low CPU priority” option to set the Defender process to a lower priority level.
• Use the PowerShell command to directly control the Defender process’s resource management. To do this, click the Start menu, type “Powershell” and right-click on “Windows PowerShell”. Select “Run as administrator”. Use “Set-MpPreference -ScanAvgCPULoadFactor 50” to limit CPU usage to 50%. Press ENTER to complete the command. Note: Only the value is set. Visually, nothing happens.
• Set your system’s power plan to “High Performance” to ensure the Defender process is running efficiently. Open the Start menu and type “Control Panel.” Click “System and Security,” then click “Power Options.” Select the “High performance” power plan. Note: If it’s not displayed, click “Show advanced power plans”.
• Also, perform regular general optimizations. Remove unnecessary background processes and regularly update drivers and Windows.