A fresh PC normally feels glossy and interesting, otherthan when it comes jam-packed with additional softwareapplication that you neverever asked for—like a trial of McAfee’s anti-virus softwareapplication. Inevitably, the assessment duration ends, and with it starts an assault of notices asking you indication up for a paid membership. Heck, often the pointers start long before the expiration date.
If you’re wornout of the harassment, or simply desire to get back to Windows’ more structured integrated defenses, here’s how to uninstall McAfee anti-viruses.
Looking for more choices? Check out PCWorld’s roundup of the finest anti-virus softwareapplication of 2024.
Step 1: Open the Settings app
To uninstall programs, veryfirst you needto head to the Apps area within the Settings app.
In Windows 10, hit the Start crucial on your keyboard, and then type apps. Select Apps & functions.
In Windows 11, hit the Start essential on your keyboard,, then type installed apps. Choose Installed Apps.
Step 2: Uninstall McAfee
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Scroll down the list of setup apps and discover McAfee.
In Windows 10, click on McAfee in the list, then on the Uninstall button.
In Windows 11, click the 3 dot icon on the far right, then select Uninstall.
If a User Account Control approval window appears, click Yes to authorize the demand to make a opportunity on your PC. McAfee might then flash a pop-up asking for you to response a study (you can decrease), as well as another for verification that you desire to getridof the softwareapplication.
After the uninstallation is total, reboot your PC.
Step 3: Repeat for other McAfee parts
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PCWorld
PCWorld
You might have more than simply McAfee’s anti-virus softwareapplication on your system—if the trial was for a morecomprehensive membership that likewise consistedof services like the business’s VPN and adult manages, you’ll requirement to uninstall those apps independently.
Reboot your PC after uninstalling each part.
Step 4: Confirm Windows Security is active
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PCWorld
PCWorld
After the dust settles, open the Start menu, then type windows security and launch the app.
Under Virus & hazard security, your status must state No action required. If it states Unknown, reboot your PC and then appearance onceagain. We advise likewise turning on App & webbrowser control if you see a timely to do so (like in the screenshot above).
After you’ve carriedout this action, you needto be excellent to go—you can either let Windows continue doing its thing, or setup various third-party anti-virus softwareapplication more to your preference.