UNINSTALLING SOFTWARE
(Smart Computing October, 2006)
Important: eradicate every trace
Do NOT simply delete the folder! Vs. DOS
Include shortcuts, Registry entries, system files, etc
Use special un-installation utilities (most available on your PC)
Built-in Uninstall
Most software use InstallShield (www.installshield.com) to install which maintains a list of all locations; with uninstall removes every single file that was inserted on the HD at installation
Start> All Programs> look for uninstall or uninstaller (Demonstrate)
Select options re keeping certain files and folders i.e. remove all or retain some
Add/Remove Program
Used where programs lack uninstall utilities
Includes uninstall info for almost every piece of software including MS system patches
Demonstrate: to Change/Remove button
Shut down software properly before using since cannot be removed entirely otherwise i.e. check System Tray
Follow prompts carefully which vary with program involved
Use triple salute if you have difficulty turning off software and End Task
Use Processes tab if program not seen on list of applications, System Tray icon, etc. Click Image Name to alphabetize then scroll; select and End Process ; use Google to help identify; avoid deleting essential entries e.g. sachost.exe, rundll32.exe and explorer.exe; repeat the process but do NOT shut down
Remove Windows Software
Most can not be uninstalled using Add/Remove Programs list
Demonstrate: using removal of Components by scrolling and removal
May be difficult to locate e.g. Calculator in Accessories
Reinstall To Uninstall
Special problem with System Restore i.e. used after a program installation goes awry; after using, Windows unaware that software after the restore point exists even though the software files and folders exit with no uninstall option and other features
Use where uninstalling is a stubborn situation e.g. anti-virus program
Used Outside Help
CCleaner (free; www.ccleaner.com); deselect Yahoo toolbar for Web browser;
click Issues button and click Scan For Issues; click Fix
Selected Issues to rid remnants; click Tools then Uninstall which remove
entries for uninstalled software that still appears in Add/Remove Programs
Total Uninstall ($29; www.martau.com); used when program initially installed.
Stubborn Security Software
Purposely leave remnants e.g. Symantec s security suites (www.symantec.com); needs special removal procedure and tool; may have to re-install then uninstall.
OEM Madness
Preloading semi-useful or useless
programs e.g. AOL and Earthlink
Use Add/Remove Program or software s uninstall; not simply the shortcuts
Better to purchase a PC that comes with a Windows operating system CD or DVD vs. a system restore disk, restore partition, or other media designed to restore the computer to when you first purchased it.