How To Delete Avast Antivirus Windows 11

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Alright, let's get Avast off your Windows 11 system! It can sometimes feel like these security programs become a bit too entrenched, can't it? Don't worry, we'll walk through this step by step.

Getting Started: Are You Absolutely Sure?

Before we dive in, take a quick moment to consider if you have another antivirus solution ready to go. Leaving your system unprotected, even for a short while, isn't ideal. If you have a different antivirus program you plan to install, make sure you have it downloaded and ready.

Okay, still with me? Let's proceed!

Step 1: The Standard Uninstall Method (The Recommended First Try)

This is usually the cleanest and most straightforward way to remove Avast.

Accessing the Apps & Features Settings

  1. Click on the Start Menu icon (the Windows logo) on your taskbar.
  2. Type "Apps & features" in the search bar that appears.
  3. Click on "Apps & features" in the search results. This will open the Settings app to the "Apps" section.

Locating Avast Antivirus in the List

  1. In the "Apps" list, you might see a long list of installed programs. To make it easier, you can use the "Search apps" bar at the top and type "Avast".
  2. Once you find the Avast Antivirus entry (it might be named slightly differently, like "Avast Free Antivirus" or "Avast Premium Security"), click on it.

Initiating the Uninstall Process

  1. After clicking on Avast, you should see an "Uninstall" button appear. Click on it.
  2. Windows will likely ask for confirmation. Click "Uninstall" again to proceed.

Following the Avast Uninstall Wizard

  1. This will launch the Avast Uninstall Wizard. You'll probably see a window asking if you're sure you want to uninstall. Click "Yes".
  2. Be prepared for some emotional blackmail! Avast might try to convince you to stay, perhaps by highlighting the security benefits. Don't be swayed if you're set on removing it. Look for the option to "Uninstall" or "Remove".
  3. The wizard might present you with options to repair, modify, or uninstall. Make sure you select "Uninstall".
  4. The uninstallation process will begin. This might take a few minutes. Let it run without interruption.
  5. Once the uninstall is complete, you'll likely be prompted to restart your computer. It's crucial to do this to ensure all Avast files are properly removed.

Step 2: Using the Avast Uninstall Tool (If the Standard Method Fails)

Sometimes, the standard uninstall process doesn't completely remove all Avast components. In such cases, Avast provides a dedicated uninstall tool.

Downloading the Avast Uninstall Tool (avastclear.exe)

  1. Open your web browser and go to the official Avast support website. Search for "Avast Uninstall Tool" or "avastclear".
  2. You should find a page with instructions and a download link for the avastclear.exe utility. Only download this tool from the official Avast website to avoid getting malware.
  3. Download the avastclear.exe file to a location you can easily find (like your Desktop).

Running the Avast Uninstall Tool in Safe Mode

This is an important step! Running the tool in Safe Mode ensures that Avast services and drivers aren't running and interfering with the removal process.

  1. Restart your computer into Safe Mode. There are several ways to do this in Windows 11:
    • Method 1 (Using System Configuration):
      • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
      • Type "msconfig" and press Enter.
      • In the System Configuration window, go to the "Boot" tab.
      • Under "Boot options," check the "Safe boot" box and select "Minimal".  
      • Click "Apply" and then "OK".
      • Click "Restart" when prompted. Your computer will restart in Safe Mode.
    • Method 2 (During Startup):
      • Restart your computer. As it's booting up, repeatedly press the F8 key or Shift + F8 key. This might take a few tries, as the timing can be sensitive.
      • You should see the "Advanced Boot Options" menu. Use the arrow keys to select "Safe Mode" and press Enter.
    • Method 3 (Using Recovery Options):
      • Open the Settings app (Win + I).
      • Click on "System" and then "Recovery".
      • Under "Advanced startup," click "Restart now".
      • After your PC restarts to the "Choose an option" screen, select "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Settings" > "Restart".  
      • After your PC restarts again, press the 4 or F4 key to start in "Safe Mode".

Executing the avastclear.exe Utility

  1. Once you're in Safe Mode, navigate to the location where you saved the avastclear.exe file.
  2. Right-click on the avastclear.exe file and select "Run as administrator".
  3. The Avast Uninstall Tool window will open.
  4. If you have multiple Avast products installed, make sure the correct one is selected in the dropdown menu.
  5. Click the "Uninstall" button.
  6. The tool will proceed with the uninstallation. This might take some time.
  7. Once the process is complete, the tool will prompt you to restart your computer. Click "Yes" to reboot.

Step 3: Final Cleanup (Optional but Recommended)

After uninstalling Avast using either method, it's a good practice to check for any leftover files or registry entries.

Checking for Remaining Files and Folders

  1. Open File Explorer (Windows key + E).
  2. Navigate to the following locations and delete any folders related to Avast if they still exist:
    • C:\Program Files\Avast Software\
    • C:\ProgramData\Avast Software\
    • C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Local\Avast Software\
    • C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Roaming\Avast Software\ (Replace <YourUsername> with your actual user account name.)
  3. Empty your Recycle Bin.

Checking the Windows Registry (Use with Caution!)

Modifying the registry incorrectly can cause serious system issues. Only proceed with caution and if you are comfortable with this process. It's always a good idea to back up your registry before making any changes.

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type "regedit" and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following keys and delete any entries or folders related to Avast:
    • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Avast
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Avast Software
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services (Look for services starting with "Avast")
  4. After deleting any Avast-related entries, close the Registry Editor and restart your computer one last time.

Congratulations!

You should now have successfully removed Avast Antivirus from your Windows 11 system. Remember to install your preferred antivirus solution to keep your computer protected.

Frequently Asked Questions: How To...

Here are some related questions you might have:

How to check if Avast is completely uninstalled? After restarting, check the locations mentioned in the "Final Cleanup" step (Program Files, ProgramData, AppData, and the Registry) for any remaining Avast folders or entries. If you don't find any, it's likely gone.

How to stop Avast services before uninstalling? The standard uninstall process should handle stopping the services. However, if you're having trouble, you can open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the "Services" tab, find any Avast services, right-click on them, and select "Stop".

How to back up my Windows Registry? Before making any registry changes, open Registry Editor (regedit), click on "File" in the menu bar, and select "Export". Choose a location to save the backup file (.reg) and give it a name.

How to install a different antivirus program after removing Avast? Once Avast is uninstalled and your system has restarted, you can download the installer for your new antivirus software from its official website and run the installation program.

How to know which antivirus to install? The best antivirus for you depends on your needs and budget. Research different options, read reviews, and compare features before making a decision.

How to prevent antivirus programs from interfering with uninstallations in the future? Using the program's official uninstall tool (if provided) and running it in Safe Mode can often help ensure a cleaner removal.

How to remove Avast browser extensions? Open your web browser (e.g., Chrome, Edge, Firefox), go to the extensions/add-ons settings, and look for any extensions related to Avast. Remove or disable them.

How to deal with error messages during the Avast uninstallation? If you encounter errors, try restarting your computer and attempting the uninstallation again. If the standard method fails, use the Avast Uninstall Tool in Safe Mode. Check the Avast support website for specific error codes.

How to reinstall Avast if I change my mind? Go to the official Avast website, download the installer for the version you want, and run the installation program. Follow the on-screen instructions.

How to ensure my computer is protected after removing Avast? Immediately install another reputable antivirus program. Windows Defender, which comes built-in with Windows 11, offers basic protection if you don't have a third-party solution ready right away, but a dedicated antivirus is generally recommended.

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How To Delete Avast Antivirus Windows 11

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