How To Safely Remove Antivirus Software?

Answer 1

There are some antivirus programs that cause more trouble than benefits for some people. Be sure to take the proper steps in removing antivirus software, as improperly attempting to remove it may cause additional problems.

Find The Antivirus Uninstall Tool

The first step is to reboot the computer. Never uninstall antivirus programs using the Control Panel's uninstall feature. The best and fastest way to remove the software is to use its own uninstall tool. As soon as the system loads properly, click on the Windows icon on the bottom left corner of the screen. Go to Programs, then select the antivirus program. There should be several more options that appear in a list below the program's name. One of the included options is uninstalling the program. If an antivirus program doesn't offer this option in a list, don't panic. Open the Program Files folder. Find the antivirus software's file, open it and select the uninstall option. Another option for finding the program's location is to search the name of the software. To do this, click on the Windows button, click on the search box and type in the program's name.

Begin The Uninstall Process

There should be one or more options after opening the program's uninstall tool. If there is a complete uninstall option, select that. At this point, most antivirus companies send a survey prompt. Skip the survey to save time. Once the final uninstall option is selected, the tool will automatically remove the software. Depending on computer speed and the individual program, this may be a quick or lengthy process.

Complete The Uninstall Process

Once the tool is finished with its tasks, a written confirmation text on the screen will indicate that the process is finished. A reboot dialog box will also appear. Be sure to confirm an immediate reboot, as this ensures future antivirus installations won't be negatively affected. If the software's uninstall tool won't work properly, shows an error message or takes more than three hours, contact the company for support.

Ensure All Files Are Gone

After uninstalling the program, it is beneficial to run a system registry cleaner. One of the best programs for this task is Advanced System Optimizer, which is available for download at CNET. The program is simple to use after downloading it. Follow the prompts to run the cleaner, then check the results to see if the antivirus software is completely gone. Delete any extra antivirus files that the registry cleaner finds.

Be sure to reboot the computer after the entire process is complete, as this will prevent the device from malfunctioning, crashing and meeting its early demise. Rebooting immediately also helps prevent interference issues with other programs on the computer. After uninstalling the software, be sure to install another antivirus program. Anyone who uses the internet, regardless of time spent online, needs a good antivirus software program to be properly protected from the virtual burglars and robbers in cyberspace.