How to Completely Uninstall TotalAV from Your PC or Mac (Step-by-Step Guide)
TotalAV, a popular antivirus software, often finds its way onto computers through bundled installations or aggressive marketing tactics. While it aims to provide security, some users find its performance intrusive, resource-heavy, or simply unnecessary. If you’ve decided to remove TotalAV from your PC or Mac, this comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to ensure a clean and complete uninstallation, leaving no traces behind.
Why Uninstall TotalAV Completely?
Simply deleting the application icon isn’t enough. TotalAV, like many antivirus programs, installs various components deep within your operating system. These components can include:
* Background processes: Continuously running processes that consume system resources, even when the main application is closed.
* Scheduled tasks: Automated tasks that run in the background, potentially impacting performance.
* Browser extensions: Extensions that can affect your browsing experience and security.
* Registry entries (Windows): Entries in the Windows Registry that can cause conflicts with other software.
* Configuration files: Files containing settings and preferences that can remain even after the application is deleted.
Leaving these components behind can lead to several issues:
* System slowdown: Background processes and scheduled tasks can consume CPU and memory, slowing down your computer.
* Conflicts with other software: Remnants of TotalAV can interfere with the installation or operation of other security software.
* Security vulnerabilities: Outdated or incomplete installations can create security vulnerabilities.
* Unwanted notifications: You might continue to receive notifications from TotalAV, even after you think it’s uninstalled.
Therefore, a thorough uninstallation is crucial to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues.
Before You Begin: Important Considerations
* Back up your data: As a precautionary measure, back up your important files before uninstalling any software, including TotalAV. While unlikely, data loss can occur during the uninstallation process.
* Close TotalAV: Ensure that TotalAV and all its associated processes are completely closed before you begin. Check the system tray (Windows) or the menu bar (Mac) for the TotalAV icon. Right-click on the icon and select “Exit,” “Quit,” or a similar option.
* Administrator privileges: You’ll need administrator privileges to uninstall TotalAV. If you’re not an administrator, you’ll need to log in with an administrator account.
* Internet connection: While not always necessary, having an active internet connection can help with downloading the latest uninstaller or accessing online support resources.
Uninstalling TotalAV on Windows: A Comprehensive Guide
There are several methods for uninstalling TotalAV on Windows. We’ll cover the most effective approaches:
Method 1: Using the Windows Control Panel/Settings App
This is the standard method for uninstalling programs in Windows.
1. Open the Control Panel (Windows 7/8/8.1):
* Click the Start button.
* Select “Control Panel.”
* If the Control Panel is in Category view, click “Uninstall a program” under the “Programs” category.
* If the Control Panel is in Icon view, click “Programs and Features.”
2. Open the Settings App (Windows 10/11):
* Click the Start button.
* Click the gear icon to open the Settings app.
* Click “Apps” (or “Apps & Features” in older versions of Windows 10).
3. Locate TotalAV:
* In the Control Panel or Settings app, find TotalAV in the list of installed programs.
* The list is usually alphabetical, so scroll down to find it.
4. Uninstall TotalAV:
* Control Panel: Click on TotalAV and then click the “Uninstall” button at the top of the list.
* Settings App: Click on TotalAV and then click the “Uninstall” button. You might be prompted to confirm your choice – click “Uninstall” again.
5. Follow the Uninstallation Wizard:
* A TotalAV uninstallation wizard will appear. Follow the on-screen instructions.
* You may be asked why you’re uninstalling TotalAV. You can provide feedback or skip this step.
* The wizard might prompt you to restart your computer. It’s generally recommended to restart your computer after uninstalling software to ensure that all files are removed and the changes take effect.
Method 2: Using the TotalAV Uninstaller (if available)
Some programs include a dedicated uninstaller file that can be used to remove the software. Check the TotalAV installation folder for an uninstaller file.
1. Locate the TotalAV Installation Folder:
* The default installation folder is usually `C:\Program Files\TotalAV` or `C:\Program Files (x86)\TotalAV`.
* You can find the installation folder by right-clicking on the TotalAV shortcut on your desktop or in the Start Menu, and then selecting “Properties.” In the Properties window, look for the “Target” field, which will show the path to the TotalAV executable file. The installation folder is the directory containing that executable file.
2. Look for an Uninstaller:
* In the TotalAV installation folder, look for a file named `uninstall.exe`, `unins000.exe`, or something similar. The name may vary slightly depending on the version of TotalAV.
3. Run the Uninstaller:
* Double-click the uninstaller file to run it.
* Follow the on-screen instructions in the uninstallation wizard.
4. Restart Your Computer:
* Restart your computer after the uninstallation is complete.
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Uninstaller Tool
Third-party uninstaller tools can help remove stubborn programs and leftover files. Popular options include Revo Uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller, and Geek Uninstaller. These tools often scan your system for residual files, registry entries, and other components that the standard uninstaller might miss.
1. Download and Install a Third-Party Uninstaller Tool:
* Download a reputable third-party uninstaller tool from its official website. Be cautious when downloading software from unofficial sources, as they may contain malware.
* Install the uninstaller tool following the on-screen instructions.
2. Run the Uninstaller Tool:
* Launch the uninstaller tool.
3. Locate TotalAV:
* The uninstaller tool will display a list of installed programs. Find TotalAV in the list.
4. Uninstall TotalAV:
* Select TotalAV and click the “Uninstall” button. The uninstaller tool will usually offer different uninstallation modes, such as “Safe,” “Moderate,” and “Advanced.” The “Advanced” mode typically performs a more thorough scan for leftover files and registry entries.
* Follow the on-screen instructions in the uninstallation wizard.
5. Scan for Leftover Files and Registry Entries:
* After the initial uninstallation process, the uninstaller tool will scan your system for leftover files and registry entries related to TotalAV.
6. Delete Leftover Files and Registry Entries:
* The uninstaller tool will display a list of leftover files and registry entries. Review the list and select the items you want to delete. Be cautious when deleting registry entries, as deleting the wrong entries can cause system instability. If you’re unsure about an entry, it’s best to leave it alone.
* Click the “Delete” or “Remove” button to delete the selected items.
7. Restart Your Computer:
* Restart your computer after the uninstallation is complete.
Method 4: Removing Browser Extensions (if applicable)
TotalAV may install browser extensions in your web browsers. You’ll need to remove these extensions manually.
Google Chrome:
1. Open Chrome: Launch the Google Chrome browser.
2. Access Extensions:
* Click the three vertical dots (Menu) in the top-right corner of the Chrome window.
* Select “More tools” and then “Extensions.”
* Alternatively, type `chrome://extensions` in the address bar and press Enter.
3. Locate TotalAV Extension:
* Find the TotalAV extension in the list of installed extensions. It may be named “TotalAV Web Shield,” “TotalAV Safe Browsing,” or something similar.
4. Remove the Extension:
* Click the “Remove” button next to the TotalAV extension.
* Confirm the removal by clicking “Remove” again in the confirmation dialog.
Mozilla Firefox:
1. Open Firefox: Launch the Mozilla Firefox browser.
2. Access Add-ons:
* Click the three horizontal lines (Menu) in the top-right corner of the Firefox window.
* Select “Add-ons.”
* Alternatively, type `about:addons` in the address bar and press Enter.
3. Locate TotalAV Extension:
* Click the “Extensions” tab on the left side of the Add-ons Manager page.
* Find the TotalAV extension in the list of installed extensions. It may be named “TotalAV Web Shield,” “TotalAV Safe Browsing,” or something similar.
4. Remove the Extension:
* Click the three dots next to the TotalAV extension and select “Remove.”
* Confirm the removal by clicking “Remove” again in the confirmation dialog.
Microsoft Edge:
1. Open Edge: Launch the Microsoft Edge browser.
2. Access Extensions:
* Click the three horizontal dots (Menu) in the top-right corner of the Edge window.
* Select “Extensions.”
* Alternatively, type `edge://extensions` in the address bar and press Enter.
3. Locate TotalAV Extension:
* Find the TotalAV extension in the list of installed extensions. It may be named “TotalAV Web Shield,” “TotalAV Safe Browsing,” or something similar.
4. Remove the Extension:
* Click the “Remove” button below the TotalAV extension.
* Confirm the removal by clicking “Remove” again in the confirmation dialog.
After Uninstalling: Final Checks and Cleanup (Windows)
Even after using an uninstaller, it’s a good idea to perform some final checks and cleanup to ensure that all traces of TotalAV are removed.
1. Check the Program Files Folders:
* Navigate to `C:\Program Files` and `C:\Program Files (x86)`. Look for any folders related to TotalAV. If you find any, delete them. You may need administrator privileges to delete these folders.
2. Check the AppData Folders:
* The AppData folder is a hidden folder that contains application data. To access it, type `%appdata%` in the Windows search bar and press Enter. This will open the Roaming folder. Go up one level to the AppData folder.
* Check the Local, LocalLow, and Roaming folders for any folders related to TotalAV. If you find any, delete them. You may need to show hidden folders to see the AppData folder. To do this, open File Explorer, click the “View” tab, and check the “Hidden items” box.
3. Check the Registry (Advanced Users Only):
* Warning: Editing the Windows Registry incorrectly can cause serious system problems. Only proceed with this step if you’re comfortable editing the registry. Back up your registry before making any changes.
* Open the Registry Editor by typing `regedit` in the Windows search bar and pressing Enter.
* Navigate to the following keys and look for any entries related to TotalAV:
* `HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software`
* `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE`
* `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node` (for 64-bit systems)
* If you find any entries related to TotalAV, right-click on them and select “Delete.”
* Close the Registry Editor.
4. Run a Full System Scan with Another Antivirus:
* After uninstalling TotalAV, run a full system scan with another reputable antivirus program to ensure that there are no remaining malware or residual files on your computer.
Uninstalling TotalAV on Mac: A Complete Guide
Uninstalling TotalAV on a Mac requires a slightly different approach than on Windows.
Method 1: Using the TotalAV Uninstaller (Recommended)
TotalAV for Mac usually includes a dedicated uninstaller application. This is the preferred method for removing the software.
1. Quit TotalAV:
* Ensure that TotalAV and all its associated processes are completely closed. Look for the TotalAV icon in the menu bar (top right corner of the screen). Click on the icon and select “Quit” or “Exit.”
* You can also force quit TotalAV by opening Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor), selecting the TotalAV processes, and clicking the “X” button in the toolbar. Then, select “Force Quit.”
2. Open Finder:
* Click on the Finder icon in the Dock.
3. Go to Applications Folder:
* In the Finder window, click on “Applications” in the sidebar.
4. Locate TotalAV:
* Find the TotalAV application in the list of applications.
5. Run the Uninstaller:
* Inside the TotalAV application folder, look for an uninstaller application named “Uninstall TotalAV” or something similar.
* Double-click the uninstaller application to run it.
6. Follow the Uninstallation Instructions:
* The uninstaller will guide you through the uninstallation process. Follow the on-screen instructions.
* You may be prompted to enter your administrator password to authorize the uninstallation.
* The uninstaller might ask if you want to keep your TotalAV settings. If you’re completely removing TotalAV, choose to remove all settings.
7. Restart Your Mac:
* Restart your Mac after the uninstallation is complete.
Method 2: Manually Removing TotalAV
If you can’t find an uninstaller application, you can try to remove TotalAV manually. This method involves deleting the application and its associated files.
1. Quit TotalAV:
* Ensure that TotalAV and all its associated processes are completely closed. Look for the TotalAV icon in the menu bar (top right corner of the screen). Click on the icon and select “Quit” or “Exit.”
* You can also force quit TotalAV by opening Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor), selecting the TotalAV processes, and clicking the “X” button in the toolbar. Then, select “Force Quit.”
2. Open Finder:
* Click on the Finder icon in the Dock.
3. Go to Applications Folder:
* In the Finder window, click on “Applications” in the sidebar.
4. Locate TotalAV:
* Find the TotalAV application in the list of applications.
5. Move TotalAV to Trash:
* Drag the TotalAV application icon to the Trash icon in the Dock. Alternatively, right-click on the TotalAV application icon and select “Move to Trash.”
6. Empty the Trash:
* Right-click on the Trash icon in the Dock and select “Empty Trash.” This will permanently delete the TotalAV application.
7. Remove Associated Files:
* TotalAV may create files and folders in various locations on your Mac. You’ll need to remove these files manually.
* Open Finder.
* Click on “Go” in the menu bar and select “Go to Folder…”
* Enter the following paths one by one and press Enter:
* `/Library/Application Support`
* `/Library/LaunchAgents`
* `/Library/LaunchDaemons`
* `/Library/Preferences`
* In each of these folders, look for any files or folders related to TotalAV. The names may include “TotalAV,” “Protected.net,” or similar variations.
* Drag any related files or folders to the Trash.
8. Empty the Trash:
* Right-click on the Trash icon in the Dock and select “Empty Trash.” This will permanently delete the associated files.
9. Restart Your Mac:
* Restart your Mac after the uninstallation is complete.
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Uninstaller Tool (Mac)
Similar to Windows, you can use third-party uninstaller tools to remove TotalAV and its associated files on a Mac. AppCleaner and CleanMyMac X are popular options.
1. Download and Install a Third-Party Uninstaller Tool:
* Download a reputable third-party uninstaller tool from its official website. Be cautious when downloading software from unofficial sources, as they may contain malware.
* Install the uninstaller tool following the on-screen instructions.
2. Run the Uninstaller Tool:
* Launch the uninstaller tool.
3. Locate TotalAV:
* The uninstaller tool will display a list of installed applications. Find TotalAV in the list.
4. Uninstall TotalAV:
* Select TotalAV and click the “Uninstall” button. The uninstaller tool will scan your system for associated files and folders.
* Follow the on-screen instructions in the uninstallation wizard.
5. Review and Delete Associated Files:
* The uninstaller tool will display a list of associated files and folders. Review the list and select the items you want to delete. Be cautious when deleting files, as deleting the wrong files can cause system problems. If you’re unsure about a file, it’s best to leave it alone.
* Click the “Delete” or “Remove” button to delete the selected items.
6. Restart Your Mac:
* Restart your Mac after the uninstallation is complete.
After Uninstalling: Final Checks and Cleanup (Mac)
Even after using an uninstaller, it’s a good idea to perform some final checks and cleanup to ensure that all traces of TotalAV are removed.
1. Check the Library Folders:
* Open Finder.
* Click on “Go” in the menu bar and select “Go to Folder…”
* Enter the following paths one by one and press Enter:
* `~/Library/Application Support`
* `~/Library/Caches`
* `~/Library/Containers`
* `~/Library/LaunchAgents`
* `~/Library/LaunchDaemons`
* `~/Library/Preferences`
* In each of these folders, look for any files or folders related to TotalAV. The names may include “TotalAV,” “Protected.net,” or similar variations.
* Drag any related files or folders to the Trash.
2. Empty the Trash:
* Right-click on the Trash icon in the Dock and select “Empty Trash.” This will permanently delete the associated files.
3. Check for Login Items:
* Go to System Preferences -> Users & Groups -> Login Items.
* Look for any TotalAV-related items. If you find any, select them and click the “-” button to remove them.
4. Run a Full System Scan with Another Antivirus:
* After uninstalling TotalAV, run a full system scan with another reputable antivirus program to ensure that there are no remaining malware or residual files on your computer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
* Cannot Uninstall: Access Denied: This usually indicates that you don’t have administrator privileges. Make sure you’re logged in with an administrator account.
* Uninstaller Fails to Run: Try downloading the latest version of the TotalAV uninstaller from the official website (if available). Alternatively, try using a third-party uninstaller tool.
* Files Remain After Uninstallation: Manually check the Program Files folders (Windows) or Library folders (Mac) and delete any remaining files. You may need to show hidden folders to see all files.
* Error Messages During Uninstallation: Note down the error message and search online for solutions. The TotalAV support website or online forums may provide helpful information.
* Still Seeing TotalAV Notifications: Make sure you’ve removed all TotalAV browser extensions and checked the system tray (Windows) or menu bar (Mac) for any running TotalAV processes.
Conclusion
Uninstalling TotalAV completely requires a thorough approach, especially due to the way antivirus software integrates into your system. By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that all components are removed, freeing up system resources and preventing potential conflicts. Remember to restart your computer after the uninstallation to ensure that all changes take effect. If you encounter any issues, consult the TotalAV support website or seek assistance from online forums. After successfully uninstalling TotalAV, consider installing a different antivirus program or relying on the built-in security features of your operating system, depending on your needs and preferences.