The Tools You Need to Uninstall Popular Antivirus/Security Software
Most security software companies will tell you it’s as easy as using Control Panel/Programs/Uninstall a program to remove their antivirus/security software. That’s what they’d like you to believe, but the truth is that if you uninstall most security software using Control Panel, you’ll end up with a lot of leftovers and even running services you don’t need or want.
We’ve compiled a list of programs offered by the security software companies that will help you completely remove antivirus/security software from your computer.
Avast Removal Tool
Note: Avast claims you must run this in safe mode, but we’ve successfully uninstall Avast from many computers just running it in normal Windows.
Removes most McAfee security products
Norton Remove and Reinstall Tool
Removes most Norton Security products
Note: This is called the Norton Remove and Reinstall Tool and that’s just what it will do if you’re not careful :It will remove Norton and reinstall it, unless you do this:
Double-click the NRnR icon. Read the license agreement, and click Agree.
Click Advanced Options. Click Remove Only.
Click Remove.
Click Restart Now.
Thinking about changing your security software?
We use and recommend Emsisoft. When you purchase an Emsisoft license from this page, we’ll remove your old security software and set up Emsisoft correctly – all for the price of the Emsisoft license.
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Thank you, thank you, thank you. I got my computer a couple years ago and it came with McAfee. I immediately installed Emsisoft and used the add/remove to uninstall it. Imagine my surprise when it kept popping up wanting me to reinstall it. After Xing out of the popup numerous times, it would eventually go away. However, every time I would have to restart my computer or Microsoft did it for me after an update, it would be back. I just used the removal tool, restarted my computer and it didn’t pop up as soon as it rebooted. And so far it hasn’t reared its ugly head again. YAY! I can’t thank you enough for this post. It has helped me out tremendously.
What is wrong with Revo Uninstaller and going for the most thorough uninstall option?
Revo is good for many things but when it comes to uninstalling AntiVirus, nothing is better than the tool created by the company that created the AV.
Thank you for your kind help!
Is there a special tool to uninstall Emsisoft??
Emsisoft uninstalls completely using Control Panel. If you have a damaged installation you can use Emsiclean but it’s not necessary to remove Emsisoft in most cases.
LOVE Emsisoft! I’ve had it from day one of your recommend–I’d never ever change because it’s always rated as # 1! We always get a great deal through C-8 as well! I’ll be renewing in a few months for sure.
Many thanks!
Love, love Emsisoft!!! I buy it for all my computers ….and for family ! I have uninstalled Norton and McAfee on laptops… I am so pleased with Emsisoft since you first recommended it…have never looked back on anything you have suggested. Thank you for your diligence in keeping us all safe and protected on our computers !!! Deb J.
Wondering if there is a proper tool for completely uninstalling BitDefender, other than Add/Remove Programs. It is a bit of a pain in the trousers! Using Windows 10.
Sure is.. see https://www.bitdefender.com/site/view/uninstall_consumer_paid.html
Wow! Thanks! You are the best!