Uninstall of HP Protecttools including drive encryption

[MoGilmore]

I see a lot of postings on troubles with the uninstall for HP Protecttools to include drive encryption. I need to uninstall this so I can change the hard drives.

[IT_WinSec · Accepted solution]

Hello,

Welcome to the HP Support forum. Thank you for posting.

There are certain things you SHOULD do before uninstalling HP Protect tools.

HP Protect tools is the old(er) version of a new software with name HP Client Security.

HP Protect tools often comes in combination with HP Drive Encryption software.

If your disk is currently encrypted by this software, you should first open HP Protect tools -> find the Drive Security and follow the on-screen instructions to DECRYPT the HDD. Note that this is generally slow process and may take several hours or more depending your the amount of your HDD and your PC specifications.

You may also check if you have preboot authentication enabled. Open the HP Protect tools home page -> click on the wheel Settings button -> Security Features and check there is no tick next to Power-On Authentication

Finally, please restart your computer (restart, not shutdown + start again)

Eventually, attempt to uninstall HP Protect tools using the standard method from Control Panel >> Programs and features

 If you cannot uninstall them and get an error message, the program may have to be repaired.  Please, let me know how it goes.

[MoGilmore]

I was able to turn off the encryption which I believe will allow me to image and replace the hard drive. I am hoping to have the drive today and will post again to let you know the results. Thanks for your response to my question!!

Mo

[IT_WinSec]

You are welcome!