Windows Defender: Why Defender updates demand a reboot
I would like to know why Windows Defender updates demand a reboot? Commonly, a system reboot is required because the installer is attempting to install a file that is currently being used. With for example McAfee you don't have to reboot when you install a new definition update.Certifications: MCSA 2003 MCSE 2003
July 29th, 2009 9:53pm

Hi, Thank you for posting. Based on my research, the Definition Update for Windows Defender is offered and installed via Windows Update; checking updates, downloading updates, installing updates, rebooting computer is just the procedure about how Windows Update works. For more information about Windows Update, please also refer to: Windows Update Explained Updating needs reconfigure some system components and settings, however, this could not be done since the components and settings are in using during Windows is running; and this task will be finished after the system reboots. Just as the Definition Update for Windows Defender, it is for system security and safety; after installing this important update, to make the latest definition become effective immediately, we need to reboot the system as soon as possible. Even, if you download the Windows Defender Update Definition manually, it still need to reconfigure the system components and settings; so, a reboot is still needed. In addition, if you would like to know more information about Windows Defender and Windows Update, please also go to the specific supports: Windows Defender: Support http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/defender/support.mspx Windows Update: Community and Support http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/windowsupdate/community/default.mspx Hope this helps. Thanks.Nicholas Li - MSFT
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July 30th, 2009 12:16pm

I just want to say hi and see how this is going. If there is anything we can do for you here in this thread, please feel free to post back here. I'm looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks! :-)Nicholas Li - MSFT
August 18th, 2009 1:26pm

This answers my question. But with other spyware scanners, like McAfee it's not necesarry to reboot your system, I was wondering why Windows Defender demands it. I would be nicer if Windows Defender requires no reboot after installing an update, just restarting the service should be enough. Certifications: MCSA 2003 MCSE 2003
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September 5th, 2009 4:41pm

Hi, Thank you for your update. For different applications, such as McAfee and Windows Defender, they have different on design and mechanism. At this time, as you thought it would be better if Windows Defender requires no reboot after updating, it is recommended to contact our Windows Defender and Windows Update supports to give your feedback and ideas on Windows Defender: Windows Defender: Support http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/defender/support.mspx Windows Update: Community and Support http://www.microsoft.com/windows/downloads/windowsupdate/community/default.mspx Thanks. Nicholas Li - MSFT
September 15th, 2009 9:28am

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