How to Remove or Disable the System Debugger
By Tammy Clevenger
Updated September 28, 2017
The system debugger application is included with the standard install of Windows operating systems. In earlier versions of Windows, the system debugger application is named Dr. Watson. The system debugger may not be permanently removed from the operating system. However, the debugger application may be disabled by editing the Windows registry.
Click the "Start" button in Windows.
Select the "Run" option to enter a command.
Type "regedit" in the Run input box and click the "OK" button. The registry editor application window will appear.
Use the registry search function to find the key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\AeDebug
Delete the key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\AeDebug.
Reboot the computer. The system debugger is now disabled.
Warnings
If you wish to reactivate the system debugger in the future, first export the registry file before making any changes to the registry. To reactivate the debugger, import the original registry file and reboot the computer.
References
Writer Bio
Tammy Clevenger works in the I.T. industry while maintaining creative outlets through film making, writing and audio production. She is a published academic author and is an accomplished and certified Project Management Professional.