How To Uninstall McAfee On Windows 10: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

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5 min. read

Published on November 10, 2025

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McAfee is a well-known antivirus software, but there might come a time when you want to remove it from your Windows 10 system. Perhaps you’re switching to a different security solution, or maybe you’re experiencing performance issues. Whatever the reason, uninstalling McAfee completely ensures that no residual files or processes interfere with your system’s operation.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to uninstalling McAfee on Windows 10, covering everything from the standard uninstall process to using the McAfee Consumer Product Removal (MCPR) tool for a thorough cleanup. By following these instructions, you can confidently remove McAfee and optimize your computer’s performance.

What’s the Best Way to Uninstall McAfee from Windows 10?

Uninstalling McAfee Through the Settings App

Open the Settings app: Click the Windows icon in the taskbar and select the “Settings” icon (shaped like a gear).
Navigate to Apps: In the Settings app, click on “Apps”.
Find McAfee in the Apps list: Scroll through the list of installed apps until you find “McAfee” or any McAfee-related program.
Select McAfee and click Uninstall: Click on the McAfee program you want to remove, and then click the “Uninstall” button.
Follow the on-screen instructions: A McAfee uninstallation wizard will appear. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process. This may involve confirming your decision and waiting for the process to finish.
Restart your computer: Once the uninstallation is complete, restart your computer to ensure all files are removed.

Using the McAfee Consumer Product Removal (MCPR) Tool

Download the MCPR tool: Visit the official McAfee support website and download the McAfee Consumer Product Removal (MCPR) tool.
Run the MCPR tool: Locate the downloaded MCPR.exe file and double-click it to run the tool.
Accept the license agreement: Read the license agreement and click “Agree” to proceed.
Complete the security validation: You may be prompted to enter a security code displayed on the screen. Type the code in the provided field and click “Next”.
Wait for the tool to complete: The MCPR tool will begin removing McAfee products from your system. This process may take a few minutes.
Restart your computer: Once the MCPR tool has finished, restart your computer to finalize the removal process.

Removing McAfee WebAdvisor (if applicable)

Open Control Panel: Press the Windows key, type “Control Panel,” and press Enter.
Select Programs and Features: In Control Panel, click on “Programs” and then “Programs and Features.”
Find McAfee WebAdvisor: Scroll through the list of installed programs and locate “McAfee WebAdvisor.”
Uninstall McAfee WebAdvisor: Right-click on “McAfee WebAdvisor” and select “Uninstall.”
Follow the on-screen prompts: Follow the uninstallation wizard’s instructions to remove McAfee WebAdvisor.
Restart your computer: Restart your computer after uninstalling McAfee WebAdvisor.

Tips for a Clean Uninstall

Close all McAfee programs: Before starting the uninstallation process, ensure that all McAfee programs are closed. Check the system tray (lower-right corner of your screen) for any running McAfee icons and close them.
Run the MCPR tool in Safe Mode: For a more thorough removal, consider running the MCPR tool in Safe Mode. To enter Safe Mode, restart your computer and press the F8 key (or the appropriate key for your system) repeatedly during startup. Select “Safe Mode” from the boot menu.
Check for leftover files and folders: After uninstalling McAfee, check the following locations for any leftover McAfee files or folders:
C:\Program Files\McAfee
C:\ProgramData\McAfee
C:\Program Files (x86)\McAfee
C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\McAfee
Use a registry cleaner (optional): If you’re comfortable editing the Windows Registry, you can use a registry cleaner to remove any remaining McAfee registry entries. However, be cautious when editing the registry, as incorrect changes can cause system instability.

McAfee Removal: A Smooth Transition

Uninstalling McAfee from your Windows 10 system doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a clean and complete removal, freeing up system resources and paving the way for a new security solution or simply optimizing your computer’s performance.

FAQ

How do I completely remove McAfee from my computer? Use the McAfee Consumer Product Removal (MCPR) tool after uninstalling through the Settings app.

Will uninstalling McAfee affect my computer’s performance? Yes, removing McAfee can improve performance by freeing up system resources.

Is it safe to delete McAfee folders after uninstalling? Yes, it’s generally safe to delete leftover McAfee folders after uninstalling, but back them up first if you’re unsure.

What if I don’t see McAfee in the Apps list? Use the MCPR tool directly; it can remove McAfee even if it’s not listed in the Apps.

Do I need to restart my computer after using the MCPR tool? Yes, restarting your computer is essential to finalize the removal process.