After a discussion at a club meeting about trying to remove an anti virus program that will no longer be used (due to lack of support by the provider) I have some general Hints & Tips on removal of this type of software (the problem was a failure to uninstall).
I've laid it out in a logical progression so that if 1 is no go then try 2 etc. Always do number 6 though.
Before you start, put the kettle on and make a cuppa. It doesn't uninstall anything but if you are comfortable you will be less stressed!
- Follow the software providers uninstall instructions to the letter (if available). If that fails, or no uninstall instructions, continue down.
- Next step is to look in the Program Group to see if there is an uninstall or remove for the software:
Windows 95 / 98- Start \ Programs \
- look for the name of the company or program, click on the entry and see if there is an uninstall. If so try it.
Windows XP / Windows Vista- Start \ All Programs \
- look for the name of the company or program, click on the entry and see if there is an uninstall. If so try it.
- If 1 and 2 above fail then have a look in:
Windows 95 / 98- Start \ Settings \ Control Panel \ Add or Remove Programs.
Windows XP- Start \ Control Panel \ Add or Remove Programs.
Windows Vista- Start \ Control Panel \ Programs and Features.
and see if the anti virus software is listed there. If so try and remove it that way.
- If uninstall totally fails in normal mode (that's how the PC normally starts and works), restart in Safe Mode and try again. This will often work as the anti virus software doesn't normally start up in Safe Mode.
You do know how to restart in Safe Mode don't you? No? Take a look at the Restart Windows in Safe Mode page.
- If the uninstall routine reports that some components could not be removed, it is possible that the signature updates are still in the software folder (usually in the Program Files \ company name folder). If the actual anti virus program has been uninstalled then it should be OK to delete this folder and any contents.
- Remember to shut down and re-start when you have finished as some components of the software can only be removed during a re-boot.
If the above has not removed the software, or you are getting errors other than the ones mentioned, then you will need a bit of help from a skilled PC user or technician. This does not need to be a trip to a large computer emporium costing a fortune, there are many of us out there who do it for a "cup of tea and some biscuits". The only problem is finding one…
