What is "Windows Defender Service" in my Windows 8 service list? And how is "Windows Defender Service" service related to MsMpEng.exe?

"Windows Defender Service" is a Windows 8 service that is part of the malware protection tool, Windows Defender. It normally runs in the background and notifies you when you need to take specific action. However, you can use it anytime to scan for malware if your computer isn’t working properly or if you clicked a suspicious link online or in an email message. "Windows Defender Service" service is provided by MsMpEng.exe program file.

Detailed information on "Windows Defender Service" service:

Service name: WinDefend
Display name: Windows Defender Service
Execution command: "C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MsMpEng.exe"
Dependencies: {RpcSs}

"Windows Defender Service" service is provided by a program called: MsMpEng.exe:

Name: MsMpEng.exe
Location: C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MsMpEng.exe
Description: Antimalware Service Executable
File version: 4.3.0215.0
Size: 16048 bytes
Modified: 7/2/2013 12:44:21 AM UTC

Disabling "Windows Defender Service" service should not cause any issues when running Windows 8 system.

⇒Application Services on Windows 8

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