Uninstalling McAfee from your system, whether it be a Windows PC or a Mac, can often appear to be a simple endeavor. However, many users encounter complications, such as leftover files or persistent browser extensions that linger even after the main application has been removed. These remnants can lead to a cluttered system, unwanted pop-ups, and potential conflicts with new security software installations.
Uninstalling McAfee from a Windows PC
For Windows users, the process of removing McAfee typically follows the same steps as uninstalling any other application. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you through the process:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type appwiz.cpl in the text box and hit Enter.
- In the Program and Features window, locate and select McAfee from the list.
- Click the Uninstall button at the top and confirm by clicking Yes.
- Ensure both the McAfee Total Protection checkbox and the option to remove antivirus files are selected, then click Remove.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.
Upon completion, a prompt will request you to restart your PC. It’s advisable to save any ongoing work before proceeding. If you encounter difficulties or if McAfee remains on your system, the McAfee Consumer Product Removal Tool (MCPR) can assist in fully removing the program:
- Download the MCPR tool from McAfee’s support page.
- Double-click the MCPR executable file to initiate it.
- Agree to the terms of McAfee’s user agreement and complete the security validation.
- Allow the MCPR tool to run and uninstall the program.
- Click Restart to finalize the removal process.
Uninstalling McAfee from a Mac
For Mac users, the uninstallation process is equally efficient, thanks to a dedicated uninstallation utility. Here’s how to proceed:
- Close the McAfee application if it is currently running.
- Open Finder and select the Applications tab from the sidebar.
- Locate the McAfee uninstaller, typically labeled as McAfee Total Protection Uninstaller.
- Double-click the uninstaller, then click Continue.
- Enter your Mac administrator password for verification and click OK.
Follow the on-screen prompts to successfully remove the McAfee application. While the uninstaller is effective, it may leave behind residual files that require manual deletion. To do this, navigate to the following directories and delete any McAfee files found:
- /usr/local/
- /Library/Application Support/
- /Library/LaunchDaemons/
- /Library/LaunchAgents/
Utilize the search box in the top-right corner of a Finder window to filter items. After removing the files, remember to empty the Trash by selecting Empty Trash from the Finder menu to permanently delete the leftovers.
Don’t forget to remove McAfee extensions
If you have utilized McAfee’s browser extensions for enhanced security, these may still be active post-uninstallation. This can result in continued notifications or pop-ups. To ensure a complete removal, it’s essential to delete these extensions from your browser:
For Chrome or Edge users, open the browser, click the three-dot menu in the top right corner, and select Extensions > Manage extensions. Locate any McAfee extensions and use the Remove option to delete them. For Safari users, follow these steps:
- Open Safari on your Mac.
- Click the Safari menu in the top left corner and select Preferences.
- Select the Extensions tab.
- Find any McAfee extensions and click Uninstall to remove them.
Repeat this process for any other browsers in use. It’s important to note that once McAfee and its extensions are removed, your system will lack antivirus protection unless you have activated an alternative security solution. To maintain protection against viruses and malware, consider installing a trusted antivirus program such as Windows Defender.
