STIGQter: STIG Summary: Microsoft Defender Antivirus Security Technical Implementation Guide Version: 2 Release: 9 Benchmark Date: 01 Jul 2026:

Microsoft Defender AV must be configured to monitor for file and program activity.

DISA Rule

SV-213443r1192802_rule

Vulnerability Number

V-213443

Group Title

SRG-APP-000278

Rule Version

WNDF-AV-000019

Severity

CAT II

CCI(s)

CCI-002624 - Configure malicious code protection mechanisms to perform real-time scans of files from external sources at endpoint; and/or network entry and exit points as the files are downloaded, opened, or executed in accordance with organizational policy.

Weight

Fix Recommendation

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Microsoft Defender Antivirus >> Real-time Protection >> "Monitor file and program activity on your computer" to "Enabled" or "Not Configured".

Check Contents

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Microsoft Defender Antivirus >> Real-time Protection >> "Monitor file and program activity on your computer to be scanned" is set to "Enabled" or "Not Configured".

Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key:
HKLM\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\Real-Time Protection

Criteria: If the value "DisableOnAccessProtection" is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

If the value does not exist, this is not a finding.

If the value is 1, this is a finding.

Microsoft Defender AV must be configured to monitor for file and program activity.

DISA Rule

Vulnerability Number

Group Title

Rule Version

Severity

CCI(s)

Weight

Fix Recommendation

Check Contents

Vulnerability Number

Documentable

Rule Version

Severity Override Guidance

Check Content Reference

Target Key