How to completely remove "C:\Program Files\HP\NativeHost" stuff

[TheBRS]

After my last HP printer died (and I chose not to replace it due to various reasons), I uninstalled all HP related software from my machine.

There were various components that weren't uninstalled (e.g., HP Print and Scan Dr) where I found instructions on how to manually remove them.  I still have a HP folder with stuff that I don't know what it was used for (C:\Program Files\HP\NativeHost) nor could I find any information on the best way to remove it.

Anyone out there know what this is for, and how best to clean it up after deleting the files (e.g., is there any registry cleanup necessary, etc.)?

[Max3Aj]

@TheBRS, Hello and welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your question. I'm here to help you get things back on track.

Remove HP Print and Scan Doctor by deleting the desktop shortcut and application folders.

• Open Windows File Explorer.
• Click Desktop, and then delete the HP Print Scan Doctor shortcut if it exists.
• In File Explorer, enter C:\HP\Diagnostics\PSDR in the address bar.
• If the folder exists, delete it and all its contents.
• In File Explorer, enter C:\Program Files (x86)\HP\Diagnostics\PSDR in the address bar.
• If the folder exists, delete it and all its contents.

If you've already uninstalled all HP software and no longer use an HP printer, you can safely remove this folder. Here's how to do it thoroughly:

Check for Running Services

Before deleting the folder, ensure no HP services are running:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
• Look for any processes starting with HP (e.g., HPCommRecovery, HPNetworkCommunicator, etc.).
• Right-click and choose End Task if found.

Delete the Folder

• Navigate to C:\Program Files\HP\NativeHost.
• Right-click the folder and select Delete.
• If prompted for admin rights, click Continue.

Clean Up Registry (Optional but Recommended)

• Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
• Navigate to:
  • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\HP
  • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\HP
• Look for any entries referencing NativeHost or related HP printer software.
• Right-click and delete only those specific entries.

Remove Scheduled Tasks (if any)

• Open Task Scheduler (taskschd.msc).
• Look under Task Scheduler Library > HP.
• Delete any tasks related to NativeHost or HP printer utilities.

Clear Temporary Files

• Press Win + R, type %temp%, and delete all files in the folder.
• Also run Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr) to remove leftover system files.

I hope the information shared has been useful and resolves your concern.

Wishing you a smooth and hassle-free experience ahead!

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Warm regards,

Max3Aj

HP Support