How do I completely remove McAfee?

[EPPattyB]

My computer came preloaded with McAfee protection.  I want to hae Windows Defender as my security and the firewall that is included with Windows 8.1.  How do I completely uninstall the McAfee so that I can activate the Windows Defender?  I tried to request the answer from customer service and was directed to a pay for service provider.  I did not request any 3rd party security software when I purchased this from HP directly by phone. 

[DavidPK · Accepted solution]

Hi,

If you've already uninstalled McAfee from its entry in Programs and Features, try downloading the McAfee Removal Tool on the following link and save it to your Downloads folder.

http://us.mcafee.com/apps/supporttools/mcpr/mcpr.asp

When downloaded, open your Downloads folder, right click the tool and select 'Run as Administrator' to start the process.

When this has completed, restart the notebook and let Windows fully load before checking if Defender will now run.

Regards,

DP-K

[EPPattyB]

David:  Thank you so much for the prompt response.  I removed the program by using the Charms, Search, McAfee, Uninstall program.  Then I restarted the computer.  I then went back into the Charms, Search, Windows Defender and made sure that it was on...sure enough it had automatically enabled itself!  The Firewall & Defender are now on duty.  I've done a full scan and everythin is wonderful!  Thank you again, Patty

[DavidPK]

Hi Patty,

You're welcome and good to hear it's Ok

All the best,

DP-K

[HM2712]

I activated defender about six months after getting my laptop. Then it indicated scan complete and definitions updated. Then mcafee turned it back off. I can't get it to run now so I need to uninstall mcafee. Important note. Do I have to unsubscribe from mcafee if I never activated the subscription? If yes how. If no how do I