So, you’ve just bought a new Windows 11 PC and noticed that McAfee LiveSafe came pre-installed. At first, it might seem helpful, but after a while, many users decide to uninstall it—maybe because they prefer Windows Defender, or they don’t like the constant subscription reminders.
If you’re in that boat, don’t worry. Removing McAfee LiveSafe from Windows 11 is straightforward when you know the right steps. In this guide, I’ll walk you through multiple ways to completely uninstall McAfee from your system, step by step.
Why Remove McAfee LiveSafe from Windows 11?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly look at why so many people uninstall McAfee.
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Pre-installed bloatware: It comes bundled on many new PCs, eating up space.
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Subscription costs: After the free trial, it asks for paid renewals.
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Windows Defender is enough: Microsoft’s built-in security is strong and free.
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Pop-ups & notifications: Frequent reminders can get annoying.
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Performance concerns: Some users feel it slows down their PC.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s time to take action.
Different Ways to Remove McAfee LiveSafe
Windows 11 gives you a couple of ways to uninstall programs, and McAfee also provides a special removal tool to ensure no leftovers remain.
1. Uninstall McAfee LiveSafe via Settings
The most common method is through the Windows Settings app.
Steps:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Apps > Installed apps.
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Scroll down and find McAfee LiveSafe.
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Click the three dots (â‹®) next to it and select Uninstall.
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Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process.
This should remove the main McAfee application, but sometimes it leaves behind extra files.
2. Uninstall McAfee Using Control Panel
The old-school Control Panel method still works in Windows 11.
Steps:
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Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
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Type appwiz.cpl and hit Enter.
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In the Programs and Features window, find McAfee LiveSafe.
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Right-click it and select Uninstall.
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Follow the uninstallation wizard.
This is basically the same as the Settings method but via the classic interface.
3. Use McAfee’s Official Removal Tool (MCPR Tool)
McAfee offers a dedicated uninstaller called the MCPR Tool to remove all traces of its software.
Steps:
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Go to McAfee’s official website and download the MCPR Tool.
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Double-click the downloaded file to run it.
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Accept the license agreement.
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Enter the security captcha when prompted.
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Let the tool scan and remove all McAfee files.
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Restart your PC when finished.
This ensures no leftover files or registry entries remain.
4. Remove McAfee Leftover Files Manually
Sometimes, even after uninstalling, McAfee leaves behind folders. To clean up:
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Open File Explorer.
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Navigate to these locations and delete any McAfee folders:
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C:\Program Files\ -
C:\Program Files (x86)\ -
C:\ProgramData\
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Empty your Recycle Bin afterward.
Be cautious not to delete unrelated files.
5. Disable McAfee from Startup (Before Uninstalling)
If McAfee keeps running in the background, disable it before removal.
Steps:
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Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
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Go to the Startup tab.
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Look for McAfee services.
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Right-click and select Disable.
This prevents McAfee from interfering during the uninstall process.
Switching to Windows Defender After Removing McAfee
One of the best parts of removing McAfee is that Windows Defender (now called Microsoft Defender) automatically takes over.
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No need to install anything extra.
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Provides real-time protection, firewall, and ransomware protection.
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Lightweight and integrated into Windows 11.
To check if it’s working:
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Open Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security.
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Click Open Windows Security.
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Make sure Virus & threat protection is active.
Tips to Ensure McAfee Is Completely Removed
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Restart your PC after uninstalling.
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Use the MCPR tool for thorough cleanup.
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Double-check Task Manager for any McAfee processes.
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Scan with Windows Defender to confirm everything is secure.
Should You Keep McAfee Instead?
Some people prefer third-party antivirus programs, and McAfee does have its strengths:
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Strong protection against malware.
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Extra features like a VPN and password manager.
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Works across multiple devices.
But for most casual users, Windows Defender is more than enough. Unless you need the extra bells and whistles, removing McAfee makes sense.
Troubleshooting Uninstallation Issues
Sometimes, McAfee can be stubborn. Here are quick fixes:
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Uninstall stuck? Restart your PC in Safe Mode and try again.
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Error messages? Use the MCPR Tool instead of Settings.
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Still seeing pop-ups? Check for leftover scheduled tasks in Task Scheduler.
Pros and Cons of Removing McAfee LiveSafe
Pros:
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Frees up space.
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Fewer pop-ups.
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No subscription costs.
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Windows Defender is enough.
Cons:
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You lose extra features (VPN, parental controls).
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Some people feel safer with third-party antivirus.
Conclusion
Removing McAfee LiveSafe from Windows 11 is simple, whether you use Settings, Control Panel, or the official MCPR Tool. Once it’s gone, Windows Defender automatically steps in to keep your system secure.
If you’re tired of pop-ups, subscriptions, or just want a cleaner system, uninstalling McAfee is the right move. Follow the steps in this guide, and you’ll have a lighter, smoother-running Windows 11 PC in no time.
FAQs
1. Is Windows Defender enough after uninstalling McAfee?
Yes! Windows Defender in Windows 11 offers real-time protection, firewall, and ransomware protection.
2. Can I reinstall McAfee later if I change my mind?
Absolutely. You can always download it again from the McAfee website.
3. Why does McAfee keep reinstalling after removal?
Sometimes it comes bundled with updates or OEM apps. Disable auto-installers in your PC manufacturer’s software.
4. How long does it take to uninstall McAfee?
Usually 5–10 minutes, but the MCPR Tool may take longer.
5. Do I need to restart my PC after uninstalling McAfee?
Yes, restarting ensures all background services are fully removed.