How to Uninstall McAfee on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 4, 2025

McAfee often comes pre-installed on many Windows 11 computers. While some users find it useful, others prefer to remove it in favor of a different antivirus or just stick with Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender). If you’ve tried uninstalling McAfee and found the process a bit tricky, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to uninstall McAfee on Windows 11—step by step—using different methods to ensure it’s completely gone.

Why Remove McAfee from Windows 11?

  • Preference for Another Antivirus: You may want to install a different antivirus program that better suits your needs.

  • System Performance: Pre-installed security software can sometimes slow down your PC by running in the background.

  • Expired Trial Version: Many devices come with a McAfee trial version that expires after some time, leading to annoying pop-ups.

  • Relying on Windows Security: Windows 11 already includes a built-in antivirus solution that’s capable enough for most users.

Methods to Uninstall McAfee on Windows 11

1. Uninstall McAfee Using Windows Settings

This is the easiest and most straightforward method.

  1. Click the Start Menu and go to Settings (or press Windows + I).

  2. Select Apps from the left sidebar.

  3. Click on Installed apps.

  4. Scroll through the list and find McAfee (it may appear as McAfee LiveSafe, McAfee Security, or McAfee Total Protection).

  5. Click the three dots next to it and select Uninstall.

  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove it completely.

After the process, restart your PC to ensure all McAfee services stop running.

2. Use the Control Panel

If the Settings method doesn’t work or the uninstall option is missing:

  1. Press Windows + R, type control, and hit Enter.

  2. Go to Programs → Programs and Features.

  3. Locate McAfee from the list of installed programs.

  4. Right-click and choose Uninstall/Change.

  5. Complete the uninstall wizard and restart your computer.

3. Remove McAfee Completely with MCPR Tool (McAfee Consumer Product Removal Tool)

Even after uninstalling McAfee using Settings or Control Panel, some residual files may remain. To clean them up, McAfee offers an official removal tool:

  1. Download the MCPR Tool from the official McAfee website.

  2. Run the downloaded file (MCPR.exe).

  3. Accept the license agreement.

  4. Enter the CAPTCHA when prompted.

  5. Wait while the tool removes all McAfee components.

  6. Restart your PC when done.

This ensures no leftover files, services, or registry entries remain.

4. Disable McAfee Before Uninstallation (If It Resists Removal)

Sometimes, McAfee may resist removal if it’s actively running. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Right-click the McAfee icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).

  2. Select Exit or Disable Protection temporarily.

  3. Now, follow the uninstall steps via Settings or Control Panel.

5. Manually Delete Leftover Files (Optional)

After using the MCPR Tool, most files are gone. But if you want to ensure a clean slate:

  1. Open File Explorer.

  2. Check these locations:

    • C:\Program Files\McAfee

    • C:\ProgramData\McAfee

  3. Delete any remaining folders.

  4. Open the Run dialog (Windows + R), type %appdata%, and remove any McAfee-related folders.

What Happens After Uninstalling McAfee?

  • Windows Security (Windows Defender) automatically activates to protect your system.

  • You may need to restart your computer for the changes to fully apply.

  • If you’re installing another antivirus, you can now proceed without conflict.

Common Problems During McAfee Uninstallation

McAfee Doesn’t Show Up in the App List

  • Ensure you’re checking all entries (McAfee LiveSafe, Total Protection, or Security).

Error Messages During Uninstallation

  • Restart your computer and try again.

  • Use the MCPR Tool to force removal.

Residual Pop-ups Even After Removal

  • Clear leftover tasks in Task Scheduler or delete related folders manually.

Should You Keep McAfee or Switch to Windows Security?

Windows 11 comes with built-in antivirus protection (Windows Security), which has improved significantly over the years. For most users:

  • It provides real-time protection.

  • Requires no subscription.

  • Consumes fewer system resources.

If you prefer simplicity, uninstalling McAfee and relying on Windows Security is a smart move.

Tips to Ensure a Clean and Smooth Uninstallation

  • Create a restore point before uninstalling any major software.

  • Back up your data to avoid accidental loss.

  • If switching to a new antivirus, install it only after removing McAfee completely.

Final Thoughts

Uninstalling McAfee from Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you use the built-in Settings, the Control Panel, or McAfee’s official removal tool, the process is straightforward once you know the steps. Just make sure to restart your PC afterward and enable your preferred security solution—whether that’s Windows Security or another trusted antivirus.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to uninstall McAfee on Windows 11?
Yes, as long as you enable Windows Security or install another antivirus, your system will remain protected.

2. Will uninstalling McAfee improve performance?
In many cases, yes. Removing resource-heavy security suites can free up memory and CPU usage.

3. Do I need to use the MCPR Tool?
Not always, but it’s recommended if you want to ensure no leftover files remain.

4. Can I reinstall McAfee later if needed?
Yes, you can download it from the official McAfee website and reinstall anytime.

5. Does Windows Security activate automatically after uninstalling McAfee?
Yes, it usually activates automatically once no third-party antivirus is detected.

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