Software Questions and Answers - Cannot Remove McAfee Security Center

Ray writes in with a Software question

Question:I had to restore the hard drive on my lap top computer. After restoration I knew that I would have to go on line to update XP so I attempted to install my current Norton virus protection. The Norton would not install because Service Pack II was not installed on my Windows XP (circa 2004). I then loaded McAfee Virus Scan (2004) to provide protection until I could update my Windows XP operating system. All worked as planned and after updating the system and installing Norton I then uninstalled McAfee Virus Scan. However I cannot uninstall the MacAfee Security Center. When I use the uninstall it brings up a window that says all other McAfee programs must first be removed. The problem is that they are all removed and the McAfee Security center will not uninstall. I have attempted to reinstall McAfee Virus Scan but it will not install for some reason. Is there some way that I can remove this McAfee Security Center without using the uninstall program?

Answer: I have noticed that McAfee and Norton do not like to be installed together on the same computer. It tends to cause more problems than anything. Check you Add/Remove Programs and make sure there is nothing else related to McAfee there. It may not be an obvious program related to McAfee.

I found this online which may help you get rid of McAfee Security Center.

1. Double click on My Computer
2. Double click on drive C:
3. Double click on the Program Files folder
4. Double click on the mcafee.com folder
5. Double click on the agent folder
6. Double click on the app folder
7. Delete any files that end with .adf
8. Use Add/Remove Programs to remove SecurityCenter

You can also try the McAfee removal tool that they offer on their site.
http://service.mcafee.com/FAQDocument.aspx?id=TS100507

Back to the Software Questions Index

Back to the Main Answers Page

Back to the Computer Help Home Page