Navigating the Ins and Outs of Uninstalling TotalAV
Over the years, we’ve all accumulated our fair share of digital baggage in the form of outdated, redundant, or even potentially harmful software. Programs that once served a purpose may now be hogging resources or causing conflicts. When it comes to clearing out the digital clutter, uninstalling programs completely can sometimes be trickier than it seems. This especially holds true for more robust programs like antivirus suites.
In this article, we’ll walk through the steps for fully removing TotalAV from both Windows and Mac operating systems. TotalAV is considered a PUP (potentially unwanted program) by Malwarebytes and other cybersecurity experts, so you may want to replace it with a more reputable antivirus anyway. By following the guidelines below and enlisting the help of the right tools, you can banish TotalAV for good and reclaim control over your computer.
Approaching Uninstallation Strategically
When dealing with antivirus programs, the standard uninstall process sometimes leaves behind vestiges that can cause ongoing issues. So before we dig into the step-by-steps, let’s review some overarching strategies:
-
Lean on the experts.Check forums and videos to learn from those who have successfully removed TotalAV. Their real-world experience can spotlight pitfalls.
-
Use specialized tools.Purpose-built uninstallers like Revo Uninstaller can meticulously clear out all traces of a program. Similarly, anti-malware scanners like Malwarebytes root out leftover files.
-
Go manual if needed.For particularly stubborn programs, you may need to delete files and registry entries yourself. This advanced approach requires in-depth Windows knowledge.
-
Call in reinforcements.If you hit a wall, TotalAV’s customer support can provide troubleshooting tips for their own software.
With the right systematic approach, removing TotalAV doesn’t have to be a hair-pulling exercise. Now let’s get into the step-by-step instructions.
Removing TotalAV on Windows
-
Open your Start menu and click Control Panel.You can also search for Control Panel directly from the Start menu search bar.
-
Select "Uninstall a program" or "Add/Remove Programs."This takes you to the Programs and Features settings where installed software is listed.
-
Find TotalAV in the list and select it.This highlights the program.
-
Click Uninstall or Uninstall/Change.This kicks off the official TotalAV uninstaller.
-
Confirm the uninstall by clicking "Yes."This gives the final authorization to remove TotalAV.
-
Wait for the uninstall process to finish.Be patient as TotalAV is cleaned from your system.
-
Run Malwarebytes.Scan your computer with the anti-malware software to catch any trace remnants.
-
Reboot your computer.This clears out any last TotalAV components left in memory.
And with that, TotalAV should be banished from your Windows PC once and for all!
Removing TotalAV on Mac
Clearing TotalAV off a Mac follows a similar process:
-
Open Finder to access your applications.Finder allows browsing all installed programs.
-
Navigate to the TotalAV application.The antivirus software will be in the Applications folder.
-
Drag the TotalAV app to the Trash.Just click and drag to remove.
-
Right-click on the Trash icon and select "Empty Trash."This completes the deletion.
-
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.Scan with this tool to wipe out any lingering files.
-
Restart your Mac.This refreshes the OS and clears any remnants from memory.
With that, you’ve evicted TotalAV from your Mac. Going forward, consider replacing it with a more lightweight, reputable antivirus program that consumes fewer system resources.
Moving Forward TotalAV-Free
Uninstalling bulky antivirus software like TotalAV can be liberating. With it gone, you free up disk space, eliminate conflicts, and clear away needless background processing. Take the opportunity to clean up other dormant programs as well using the steps outlined above.
Keeping your computer tidy by regularly uninstalling unneeded software helps it run lighter and faster. But don’t neglect cybersecurity when thinning the herd. Be sure to have a single, updated antivirus program in place before removing security suites like TotalAV. With a decluttered system and protection from a reputable antivirus vendor, you gain back performance and peace of mind.
What other pesky programs are hogging precious resources on your computer? Share your uninstalling challenges and victories with fellow digital organizers in the comments below!
