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Saad_Farooq's avatar
Saad_Farooq
MCT
Dec 04, 2025

‎Bitdefender active mode , configure MDE passive mode

Hi 

We have scenario where client currently has Bitdefender in Active Mode and uses it to manage their endpoints and now plans to use Defender for Endpoint in Passive Mode for Endpoints (Windows 11/Server)

How to configure MDE in passive mode step by step 

I have 500 devices how to onboard that on MDE step by step in co-management

While MDE in Passive mode any performance issue along with 3rd party antivirus solution

1 Reply

  • Moetaz_Rabai's avatar
    Moetaz_Rabai
    Copper Contributor
    Dec 04, 2025

    Hello Saad,

    The recommended approach is :

     

    Mutual exclusions:

    First, exclude Microsoft Defender from Bitdefender.

    Then, exclude Bitdefender from Defender.

    This helps avoid conflicts and performance issues between the two antivirus solutions.

    MDE Deployment:

    For devices managed via Intune, the best method is to deploy MDE using Intune policies.

    For devices managed via GPO or SCCM, You can use the new MDE deployment tool.

    When you deploy Microsoft Defender for Endpoint on Windows devices with Bitdefender Antivirus active, Defender Antivirus will automatically go into passive mode. No interaction is needed on your part.

    It’s best to start with a pilot group to test, and then gradually extend the scope to all devices

     

    Thanks,

    Moetaz RABAI

     

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