Updated
To uninstall third-party antivirus software in Windows, start with the app list in Settings. If the uninstaller fails or a new antivirus installer still detects the old product after a restart, use the removal instructions for your exact product. Afterward, check Windows Security to see which antivirus is active.
Uninstall antivirus from Windows Settings
These steps apply to antivirus you installed yourself or a trial that came with your PC. For a work or school computer, ask your IT team to handle any change to its security software.
| Windows version | Where to uninstall |
|---|---|
| Windows 11 | Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps. Select the three dots next to the antivirus and choose Uninstall. |
| Windows 10 | Open Settings → Apps → Apps & features. Select the antivirus and choose Uninstall. |
Follow the product’s prompts, then restart if asked. If the product is missing from Settings, look in Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features. Microsoft covers both routes in its guide to removing Windows apps.
Official antivirus removal tools and instructions
If the normal uninstall fails, restart and try it once more. If the error comes back, note the exact product name and error message. Before using a vendor’s cleanup tool, check which components it removes and save any settings or license details you’ll need if you plan to reinstall.
| Antivirus | Official support page | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Avast | Avast Uninstall Tool | Follow Avast’s Safe Mode prompts when the standard uninstall fails. |
| AVG | AVG Uninstall Tool | Choose your AVG product in the instructions and follow its Safe Mode steps. |
| Avira | Uninstall Avira for Windows | Start with Avira Security in the Windows app list. Contact Avira support if the installer still detects it. |
| Bitdefender | Troubleshoot Bitdefender removal | Choose the removal tool for your product. Follow Bitdefender’s Safe Mode steps if removal finishes with errors. |
| ESET | ESET Uninstaller | Read ESET’s instructions on backing up network adapter settings before running the tool in Safe Mode. |
| F-Secure | F-Secure support tools | Use the Windows uninstallation tool if normal removal fails. |
| Kaspersky | Remove a Kaspersky home app | Start with the Windows steps. The support page links to kavremover for failed removals. |
| Malwarebytes | Malwarebytes Support Tool | The Advanced Clean option clears app files and settings. Reinstallation is optional. |
| McAfee | McAfee removal instructions | McAfee points home users to the Consumer Product Removal tool (MCPR) if the standard method fails. |
| Norton | Norton 360 Remover | Choose the removal-only option if you’re switching products. |
| Panda Dome | Panda Dome Generic Uninstaller | Use it after a failed standard uninstall and expect a restart. |
| Trend Micro | Uninstall Trend Micro Security | Follow the home product instructions for the Diagnostic Toolkit if the Windows method fails. |
For other products, search the vendor’s support site for the exact product name and “uninstall.” Follow the vendor’s steps for any leftover components. If the vendor requires Safe Mode, have your BitLocker recovery key available if your drive is encrypted. See Microsoft’s startup settings guide.
Check antivirus protection after restarting
- Open Windows Security from Start and select Virus & threat protection.
- Under Who’s protecting me?, choose Manage providers.
- Check that Microsoft Defender Antivirus or your replacement antivirus is active. If Windows reports that protection is off, follow the alert in Windows Security.
Microsoft Defender Antivirus normally becomes active after a third-party antivirus is removed. Check its status after restarting, especially if the previous uninstall failed. If you want to run a scan afterward, see our guide to quick, full, and offline scans in Microsoft Defender.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an antivirus removal tool every time?
Use Windows Settings first. The vendor’s tool is for failed removals or for cases where the vendor specifically recommends it.
Why does another antivirus installer still detect my old product?
Restart the PC and check the app list and security providers again. If the old product is still listed, follow its vendor’s cleanup instructions before retrying the new installer.
Can I remove leftover antivirus folders myself?
Use the vendor’s instructions to remove leftover services, drivers, and settings together. Deleting a program folder by itself can leave parts of the antivirus registered in Windows.
Does uninstalling antivirus cancel a paid subscription?
Uninstalling removes the app from the PC. Manage billing and auto-renewal in your account with the antivirus vendor or retailer.
Will Microsoft Defender turn back on?
It normally turns back on when you remove the third-party antivirus. Confirm the active provider after restarting with Microsoft’s Windows Security instructions.