Is McAfee Slowing You Down? Here’s How to Remove It

Removing McAfee antivirus software from your computer can be a straightforward process, tailored to the operating system you are using. Below are detailed instructions for uninstalling McAfee across various platforms, ensuring a smooth transition to your preferred security solution.

How to Uninstall McAfee in Windows 11 & 10

For users of Windows 11 and 10, the uninstallation process is simple and can be accomplished through the system settings:

1. Begin by typing Settings in the Windows Search box and select it from the results.
2. Navigate to Apps. In Windows 11, you will need to select Installed apps.
3. In the search box, type McAfee and choose the specific McAfee product you wish to remove.
4. Click on the three-dot menu next to the product and select Uninstall.
5. Confirm the uninstallation by selecting Uninstall again when prompted.
6. If Windows requests permission to proceed, confirm to continue with the uninstallation.
7. Once the software has been uninstalled, close the Settings window.
8. Finally, restart your computer to ensure the program has been completely removed.

How to Remove McAfee in Windows 8

For Windows 8 users, the steps are slightly different but equally straightforward:

1. Access the Start menu by either selecting it from the Charms bar or pressing the Windows key.
2. Right-click on the McAfee product you wish to uninstall and select Uninstall.
3. In the Programs and Features window, select the McAfee product again.
4. Click on Uninstall/Change.
5. Confirm the uninstallation by selecting Uninstall once more.
6. Wait for Windows to complete the uninstallation, then close the Programs and Features window.
7. Restart your computer to finalize the removal process.

How to Uninstall McAfee in Windows 7

For those still using Windows 7, the process involves the Control Panel:

1. Open the Control Panel by selecting Start > Control Panel.
2. Double-click on Add or Remove Programs.
3. Select the McAfee product you wish to remove.
4. Click on Add/Remove or Change/Remove.
5. Select Remove.
6. If prompted by Windows, confirm your decision to proceed.
7. Wait for the uninstallation to complete, then close the window.
8. Restart your computer to ensure the software has been fully removed.

How to Remove McAfee in Windows Using the McAfee Removal Tool

If you encounter difficulties uninstalling McAfee through the standard settings, the McAfee Consumer Product Removal (MCPR) tool can assist:

1. Download the MCPR tool from the official McAfee website.
2. Once downloaded, double-click on MCPR.exe.
3. Select Yes or Continue if a security warning appears, then click Run to open the tool.
4. Click Next on the McAfee Software Removal screen.
5. Agree to the End User License Agreement (EULA) by selecting Agree.
6. Enter the characters shown on the Security Validation screen and select Next.
7. Allow the tool to remove the software, which may take several minutes.
8. When the removal is complete, select Restart.

How to Uninstall McAfee From a Mac

For Mac users, uninstalling McAfee involves a few simple steps:

1. Open the Applications folder from the dock or via a Finder window.
2. Launch the McAfee Internet Security Uninstaller app.
3. Select the checkbox for Uninstall SiteAdvisor if you wish to remove the browser add-on.
4. Click Continue.
5. Enter your administrator password and select OK.
6. Once the uninstall process is complete, select Finish.

Should you have multiple McAfee applications installed, remember to uninstall them one at a time for a thorough removal.

FAQ

• If you’re having trouble uninstalling McAfee, consider performing both the standard removal through Settings > Apps and then using the MCPR tool for a complete clean-up. Alternatively, a third-party uninstaller may also be effective.
• For Android devices, navigate to Settings > Apps > Special app access > Device admin apps to toggle off McAfee Mobile Security, then return to Settings > Apps to delete the app.
• To uninstall McAfee Safe Connect, go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, select the three dots next to McAfee Safe Connect, and follow the prompts to uninstall.
• For McAfee LiveSafe, access Settings > Apps > Installed apps, select the three-dot menu next to McAfee LiveSafe, and choose Uninstall, or use the MCPR tool for removal.