Trouble getting rid of McAfee from my computer

Question

How do I delete a service from Task Manager?

I have uninstalled McAfee but keep getting messages and have noticed that it is still in "Services" in the Task Manager.

Answer 1

Download and run the McAfee MCPR tool.

https://www.mcafee.com/support/s/article/000001616?language=en_US&msockid=17ecb82484306e193c77ae5785356f69

Answer 2

To fully remove McAfee remnants and stop messages, remove it via Apps, then use the vendor’s cleanup/removal tool, and ensure only one antivirus remains enabled.

1. Uninstall from Apps (if still present)
   1. Open Start > Settings > Apps.
   2. Find any McAfee entries.
   3. Select each one and choose Uninstall.
   4. Restart the PC if prompted.
2. Use McAfee’s official removal tool Some security software leaves services and drivers behind even after a normal uninstall. Use the dedicated cleanup tool:
   1. Go to the McAfee Consumer Products Removal tool (MCPR.exe) page listed in the Microsoft article “List of security program cleanup and uninstall tools”.
   2. Download and run MCPR.exe.
   3. Follow the on‑screen instructions to complete removal.
   4. Restart the PC.
   This tool is specifically recommended to completely remove McAfee components, including services that may still appear in Task Manager.
3. Ensure the system is still protected When removing McAfee or any other antivirus, the PC may be temporarily unprotected:
   1. After reboot, open Windows Security and confirm Microsoft Defender Antivirus is enabled.
   2. Ensure Windows Firewall is turned on.
4. About deleting services from Task Manager Task Manager’s Services tab does not let services be permanently deleted; it only allows Start, Stop, or Restart. Permanent removal of a service is handled by uninstalling the software or using the vendor’s cleanup tool as above. Once McAfee is fully removed, its services should no longer appear.

If messages persist and no McAfee entries remain in Apps or Services, they may be fake browser-based “McAfee” alerts. In that case, remove suspicious notification permissions and browser extensions as described in the Microsoft Q&A guidance for McAfee/Norton pop‑ups.

---

References:

• List of security program cleanup and uninstall tools
• Protect my PC from viruses
• How to troubleshoot Windows Installer errors
• How to remove other antivirus software programs before you install System Center 2012 Endpoint Protection for Mac
• How can I remove McAfee Norton Pop Ups on Windows 11? It is not showing up on Apps or Task Manager. - Microsoft Q&A
• Windows Defender update - Microsoft Q&A