How can I fully remove Norton Antivirus from my system?

I hope that the person who wants to remove Norton Antivirus is going to install some other AV package. Using the Internet without some kind of AV protection is quite risky.

Hi Dave. I'm not a computer wizard but i can help myself a bit. I just came across your info on "how can I fully remove NAV from my system". After reading it I was tempted to try it but then I got scared and thought I better talk to you first. I've been trying to remove NAV2004 from my system but every time I try (add/remove programs), (system restore), etc. I get this message: The NAV option file is corrupt or missing. Please reinstall NAV. I've tried this about 50 times without any luck. When I try using the disc I get a "previous install or uninstall detected. Restart and launch again.

I got a bug somehow which destroyed Norton Antivirus 2005. A scan with another AV showed many infected files within Norton. I have followed the steps and removed Norton as far as possible but on Word and Excell I still get the following messge when trying to open files "Norton Antivirus 2005 does not support the Repair Feature, please uninstall and reinstall". This I cant't do as I bought Norton of the Internet and would have to re-purchase! I don't intend to spend more money as Norton was a waste of time.

Dear Dave ~

I have been in touch with Symantec twice in order to get Norton off my computer...They never do what they say they're going to do. I was supposed to receive a disc in the mail from Symantec (never received it), then I was supposed to receive info on removing Norton by e-mail...did not receive it. They just out and out lie about what they say they're going to do. So now that I've told you that...I now have both Norton and McAfee on my computer...so I just keep getting a pop-up that says that ihhknpc.exe wants access to the internet. I think this is a virus. So I keep hitting block all access. I spoke w/AOL and (who recommended the McAfee security system) but they forgot to tell us that we need to remove all previous virus protection...you guessed it...Norton. I've tried removing Norton once but the pop-up continues. My question for you is...if I follow your instructions to remove Norton, could this pop-up ruin my computer and I'll lose everything??? I'm a little nervous since I can't seem to trust anything Symantec/Norton says...and I'm not so sure of AOL or McAfee either. Thanks for your help. Crazy (from all this) BJ

I came here via Google search re unable to uninstall/reinstall Norton System Works 2003. I have heard this is a known problem & widespread. When I uninstalled via ADD/REMOVE I found LOADS of Norton/Symantec throughout my system. Followed by attempted reinstall, and final uninstall. Same problem: partiaal uninstall & popup stating program was already installed. I then used Windows Explorer throughout system, followed by Reg 1st Aid search for any key, value, or data with either Symantec or Norton.
I removed about 200 keys/entries. The computer worked great & quick...I tried installing the Norton Systemworks again & some few parts worked others did not. I haven't tried tinkering further as my level of disgust really rose.
Once I saw a huge array of reg keys, etc to alter/remove to get this program working. Symantec is very well aware of this issue & based upon my past experience, re trouble w/a
seperate NAV...this company has no interest helping customers. I gave them their eye teeth on a platter and got my satisfaction...yet this wasn't for the faint in heart. They are adept at shutting you down & "bumping" you is their forte.
I would like to reinstall this product, with proper operation. Otherwise I will demand they replace it with updated versiion at n/c or refund my purchase in full. Yes, I am quite serious, I am the customer & expect them to stand behind their product. I deal with a large compaany in a distant, in there face, no freinds nor playing games manner. I make my own complaint and expect them to resolve it fairly.
Something such as this may require up to 3 hours
andd winning is sweet. Significant issue: they have chosen to market a product which has and causes serious damage to the unit it is sold by them, to operate in, which includes proper uninstall as mandatory. No warnings were cited on the box, regardless of EULA, the context of this situation escalates any end user complaint to the level of American citizen seeks redress or refund, re product publically sold is known to be faulty and worse. You can't expect the peon who answers the company phone to do anything other than names andd hours and address and phone#s of their Corporate Office. I would refuse to argue, talk over, or be interupted; time is no object and your all is focused on presenting your simple VALID complaint, and requesting that they resolve this matter in a equitable business-like manner. Should they be resolute in not remedying the situation you must be willing to advise State Consumer Affairs office by lodging a formal complaint. This is a very wide spread problem, it behoves them to
settle your little complaint, and they hope you will never go back again, and they forgoe liklihood of class action suit.

I have the same problem as Brian Lamb, wherein I recieve a "Norton AntiVirus does not support the Repair Feature, please uninstall and reinstall" message when I open certain programs like Excel and Word or any programs under Microsoft Office. There is also a second separate window which opens up under it stating "Please wait while Windows configures Norton 2005." I've followed your quick little guide listed above but I am still recieving these messages despite there being no files left-over searchable under 'Norton' or 'Symantec' as well as deleting entries in the registry.

The windows go away after hitting OK several times.

Dear Sir,

When i am going to remove symantec antivirus from control panel at all & it is showing error that fattel error has occured. so please suggest me how to remove the same.

I was searching for the best value for my money for virus protection last night when my Norton expired. Before re-upping with them I wanted to see what else was out there. Well, I chose a different system and proceeded to install it. It told me that components of Norton were still installed on my pc and were incompatible with their system. My only option was to disable their component, which was the virus scan. Duh, that's exactly what I wanted on my pc!!!

I followed your instructions to the letter to remove Norton, but one component remains. It is the Norton2003 that I initially had installed several years ago. In order to remove this, I am told I need the CD, but I had done an online download, no CD involved or ever in my possession.

HELP!!! Now I have no virus protection, not even the new system I paid for and I am FURIOUS that Norton would try to force us to renew with them by digging so deep into our systems. Can you help me remove this pest???

Dear Dave - I've gone through all of your steps to remove the Norton and Symantec software from my machine but still can't get a few files deleted. When I try to delete them it says that I need "authorization". I even had Microsoft on the line and they couldn't remove the files either. What do you suggest? Are there any other programs that I can purchase for protecting my pc?

Thanks much,
Jodi DeMarrow

I tried everything previously, but this instruction seemed to work!

One point to note is that when doing step 6, the two entries that I had to delete under that step (in the RUN folder) didn't have "symantec", they had "NAV" in their description. NAV being "Norton Anti Virus". One was the oscheck program. Unless that is deleted, it keeps trying to do it on start-up.

Thanks Dave.

OK...I have a commercial solution if the things that should be free fail. $20 beats reformatting hard drive to get rid of Norton. http://uninstall-norton.com.

Does not bother windows primary keys, completely cleans Norton from directory files and registry entries. 100% money back guarantee if not 100% satisfied.

I have the same problem as Brian Lamb, wherein I recieve a "Norton AntiVirus does not support the Repair Feature, please uninstall and reinstall" message when I open certain programs like Excel and Word or any programs under Microsoft Office. There is also a second separate window which opens up under it stating "Please wait while Windows configures Norton 2005." I've followed your quick little guide listed above but I am still recieving these messages despite there being no files left-over searchable under 'Norton' or 'Symantec' as well as deleting entries in the registry.

The windows go away after hitting OK several times.

Hi Dave,
Seems like getting rid of Norton is a more common problem than I thought.
I loaded Norton back about 3 yrs ago when I bought my computer. Now that I have AOL (who supplies their security suite from McAfee free) I have no reason to keep subscribing to Norton. Problem is, since I apparently didn't completely remove Norton prior to downloading McAfee, the McAfee antivirus isn't working.
I found your website thru a Google search and your instructions for removing Norton are pretty clear, but I do have some concerns I wanted to ask you about before I proceed.

I see the files you're talking about (Common Files and Symantec) in my Program Files. My question is, is it safe to delete these files?
I've left-clicked these files, and many of them say
"these files are used by the operating system
and by various programs. Editing or modifying
them could damage the system"
Dave, this sounds pretty scary to a novice like me. Is it safe to delete them????
thanks for your help on this

How can I remove the virus because every time when I click some where ion pc it says " Please wait while windows configuring symentec antivirus.." please do the needful..

thanks n regards
vishu

The partial install issues (especially as pertain to MSIE and Office) tend to happen because the registry has not been properly cleaned. In particular, you will need to search for the following key in the registry:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Symantec.Norton.AntiVirus.IEToolBand\CLSID

Copy and paste the default value for this (for NAV2005, it should be {42CDD1BF-3FFB-4238-8AD1-7859DF00B1D6} or similar). Find all Keys, Values and Data which match this CLSID, and reboot. This will remove the Norton AntiVirus toolbar from all programs which call explorer.exe and should remedy the MSIE/Office error messages.

Disclaimer: Editing your registry can be extremely dangerous. Only proceed if you're sure of what you're doing!

-If you're bored and/or thorough, this can be repeated for all Symantec.* keys in HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT to completely remove registration information (in particular, HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Symantec.luProductReg* and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\Symantec.luProductReg*), which may affect your ability to perform LiveUpdate after a reinstall.

Hope this helps.

When running the symantec uninstall as well as the change/remove program I get "live update is running, please stop and retry". I have uninstalled live update and tryied to shut it down but still get this message, any help??

Hello Dave,
I decided to remove NIS 2006 from my new laptop rather than renew the introductory licence. I thought I would do it "properly" using Symantec's uninstaller. However, not only did it leave files and registry entries, suddenly Firefox was either hanging or crashing on a Visual C++ buffer overrun. I Googled the buffer overrun problem and everyone was suggesting a malware cause and recommending Adaware/Spybot etc. I thought my machine was clean but swept it anyway. Malware wasn't the problem. I cleaned out NIS using your suggestions, plus the additional comments from your other contributers. I noticed that if I started Firefox in Safe mode and reset the controls it worked slightly better for a little while at least. I thought maybe NIS had got its hooks into Firefox causing the hang/buffer overrun. So I uninstalled Firefox, deleted all the install files I could find and registry entries, reinstalled firefox and now everything is running as sweet as a nut. I'm using PC Tools plus the Windows firewall for the moment (plus my router firewall) and have just invested in a 3 licence copy of PC-Cillin which I will also put on my desktop which is grinding to a halt. I've now taken Symantec off my Christmas card list! What I hate is companies like this exploiting people this way. There must be loads of people who feel forced to stay with Symantec just because they bought a PC with the product bundled in and can't get rid of the thing.

Anyway thanks for the advice everyone.

Cheers.

Mick

Thanks! I have been getting a message when I turn my computer on, saying windows cannot find C:\Progra~1\Symantec\LIVEUP~1\LUSetup.exe. I've been trying to get it off but nothing worked until I found your steps. It finally took it off when I deleted it out of the registry, but it took a little bit of searching.

You can also go to the Semantic Website and search for Norton Removal Tool. It still leaves some items but it does work. I used it to remove NAV2006 and after removal AVG installed properly. PC-cillin did not install at all. PC-cillin gave install errors.

Dave,
I followed all the directions (including deleting most instances of "Norton" or "Symantec" with the registry editor). My Windows Security Center still says I have Norton IS as a firewall and Norton IS is uptodate and virus scanning is on. The only instances of Norton on my registry editor are under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet001\Control\Session Manager\Environment\Path and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet002\Control\Session Manager\Environment\Path and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager\Environment\Path

Can I delete these registry entries safely? It appears there are a lot of programs on the "data" side of this entry. And, if deleting these final entries doesn't solve the problem, what can I do to the Windows Security Center to convince it that Norton IS is completely off the hard drive?

Thanks,
John

hello dave
i read through your directions to uninstall norton anti-virus, but when i go into the add/remove programme norton anti-virus isn't there, but it appears when i do a folder and file search so i try to delete them but it says that "make sure that it is not write-protected or the disk is full" what does this mean??? thanks for your time Rich

hi
my question is i want to remove my old Norton AntiVirus version from my system
i follow all instruction as discribed my you
and search show there is no file of Norton but still two option automatic update and firewall exits and i cannot reinstall new version form rogers site. will u suggges me what should i do
how can i get rid of firewall and automatic update

Thanks

Hi Dave, I have a doosey! I needed to reinstall XP using CD that came with laptop. Without me realising - I ended up with 2 x XP operating systems. I followed another website instruction to delete the second system by going to 'start/control panel/system/advanced/startup recovery/edit - then deleting 2nd line in text & resaving. So I then tried to install Nortons on my 'new' operating system using CD that came with laptop. Now errors come up stating that it cannot install program. I tried deleting folders with Norton like you suggested but cannot delete folders. I also noticed C: drive memory capacity is diminished making me believe the other installed operating system is still there containing Norton programs. I am sure others have had problems when they have ended up with 2 x XP operating systems. XP CD is misleading because the wording makes it seem like you are updating only, not installing a separate system. So now I have no antivirus! Help!

I was installing BT Broadband - fine. The prompts asked us to delete the Anti-Virus we previously used - done that. After installing the new anti-virus, firewall etc, it said that we need to delete the Norton SupportWorks in order to download the new anti-virus (which I had already done)& delete Norton Firewall to download Norton Firewalltm. I followed the prompts to delete the above - but found no trace of Norton anywhere? As you can probably tell I'm not really computer minded - can anyone advise me please?

Hello Dave We have just had our PC repaired, the hard disc being re formatted and in the process our Norton anti virus seems to be lost. How on earth do we get it back,having only just renewed it and so are reluctant to pay again. No virus protection at all now and can find no way of getting in touch with Norton. Would be very grateful for advice please Kathleen

To remove NORTON, get the removal tool

http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/sharedtech.nsf/
pfdocs/2005070717173313

My advice to you - dont bother with norton, its more trouble to remove than the viruses it claims to prevent.

Their customer support is (for want of a better word) about as useful as a chocolate teapot. The main problem with the uninstall is the files in common files.

Get F-secure, hastle free, pro quality virus protection and removal. Norton are awful, just google it and youll find a myriad of people with the same problems.

I have been in touch with Symantec also.
No help what so ever. They keep sending the very same instructions even when you get back to the same tech to tell him the "solution" did not work. They respond with very same instructions. Disgusted, I went to AOL as it was their anti virus I was trying to replace Norton with.
I also spoke with HP techs and even Microsoft. Finally, an Aol tech referred me to this page. I've read your instructions. I have already been through all of these procedures. NOTHING WORKS!
If you've purchased a PC with Norton, you're stuck with it. There is NO way to get rid of it.
I have tried everything. Nothing works.
I agree with most of these people.
Symantec is worse than the viruses we're trying to protect ourselves from. They are EXPERTS in putting people off, No matter that we gave them our money.
Allen Gange has the best idea: All of us "Victoms" should pool together and start a class action law suit.
I have been trying to get rid of norton for three (3) months now. I finally threatened to take the situation to my lawyer. All that resulted in was, now Symantec totally ignores my e-mails.
The only solution I see is to delete any other anti virus programs we may have tried, and reinstall Norton. We are force to do that or have NO protection at all.
As far as trying Symantecs Norton Removal Tool,
I seriously think that each time you run that thing, it just embeds NIS deeper and deeper into your machine.
These people are Criminals.
Ronch

Go here, or search for "Norton removal tool"

http://www.freewarefiles.com/program_9_104_15892.html

What is the problem uninstalling Norton Anti-Virus????
I went to My Computer - remove program - clicked on Norton and hit remove program.
It uninstalled perfectly, and I successfully downloading AVG.

Stop WHINING. If you can't follow the directions on the registry removal steps, then you are hopeless. Move your files someplace else, fdisk the drive and reinstall the OS. Its a good idea to do this every year or so anyway.

If you can't handle either of the above, just give up... and Linux is worse, but getting better. As soon as it gets a majority of the desktops out there - Katie bar the door! - open source will prove unprotectable, the flaws will be in plain sight.

No thing made by man will ever be perfect.

WOW! thanks for the step-by-step! It worked great!

Hi Dave, I have a Norton "problem" but only partially. I have both Norton SysWorks2006 and NortonPersFirewall 2006 both installed on my PC, listed as separate programs. I fell into their auto renewal trap a couple weeks ago with the Firewall program ONLY for some reason (so they could get more $ out of me I guess),and the AV part of SysWorks is up for renewal SEPARATELY now ( at $50 ! ), although I purchased both as a package originally! Since the Firewall is paid up for another year and it seems to work well, can I remove only the AV part of SysWorks2000 by using the change programs/modify function of my XP system, or do I have to remove it all, even the PersonalFirewall? I want to install the new FREE AVG antivirus package instead, but don't need any lingering Norton interference. Any other recommendations would be great.Thanks!

hi Dave,
im having a terrible time trying to get rid of this 2004 norton antivirus off my computer, tried in change / remove programmes, but get prompted with that a supervisor from norton has to be logged on to uninstall this programme ?
now im no computer wize by far, and i dont want to do any damage to my system, i followed your steps above in running regedit etc, but pulled out on deleting, because you mentioned backing up the registry, and i wouldnt have a clue how to do this, can you ellaborate more on how one can do this thanks.
cheers, Everett

I just wanted to thank you, this work like a charm. I followed your steps in addition to using Registry Mechanic and running a search on my pc and my registry a few times. Thank you!

Hi Dave,
Just to say thank you very much for this step by step guide - it was absolutely invaluable to me and I don't know how I would have got rid of the damn thing without it.
Many, many thanks.

I enjoy your blog. I want friends to your site and let us change references, my site - http://nohtv.com , send an email to max@asax.info

i can't install norton 2007. it says pl reinstall norton 2007 . when 20% is over. i have original cd & key generator. even i have installed in my friends pc . but it didnt install mi my pc since i have tried a lot. thanks in advanced.
pl reply to rahul.noc@gmail.com

This was really helpful, and so much of Norton is gone that I could never have found myself. THANKS! However, there are still about 142 files that turn up in a "norton" search that are undeletable! It just says "nothing to do" (weird error message, eh?) and I click OK and the file stays. These are files from a failed attempt to install Norton Antivirus 2007, and the last part of their little address is "temp." How to eliminate these last little pests???

I was reinstalling norton 2005 without uninstalling my trial version, now there is a conflict. Now i am unable to reinstall or uninstall norton from my system. whenever i try to install norton 2005 it displays a message that that previous version is already installed and whenever i try to uninstall it i am unable to do so.

http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/tsgeninfo.nsf/docid/2005103109480139

Here it is. I couldn't activate the Norton after removing it from the "remove program", but that's because of the registry too needs to be deleted and that's by going to the Symantic site and using their software. You see Rogers has not rights too post these instructions on their site. Well it should work now.

Could you help please. I have deleted Norton thru the standard Windows Vista 32 software removal method. I have then used Norton Removal Tool to clean out what is left. However, Norton is still showing as a Firewall option beside the standard Windows Firewall. How do I get rid of this Norton firewall option?

message said to uninstallACT! OR WINFAX BACKUP THOSE DAtabases and uninstallthese products . where do I FIND THESE? FOR 2006

thanks for all your help,still haven't found WinFax on my search or act! HOW DO I BACK UP REGISTRY?

Symantec Tech Support can/will send you a utility they call NoNav 2.6 and it will completely remove everything related to all aspects of Symantec Products. NoNav will remove NAVCE and Symantec AV version 4,5,7,8,9,10,SCF,SSC,SCS 1.x - 3.x and AMS from the filesystem and registry. After you are done using that, it's like the PC never had any of their programs loaded. It's best to use this if you are changing to another AV vendor, and if you don't like going into your registry.

Hi Dave My friend has got Norton Antivirus and we have been trying to uninstall it, it is not in add or remove programs, in the start tray all we can do is to delete the shortcut to it.Have you got any answers
Thankyou
Tony

You can use nortons uninstaller program for free here.

hi can u tell me how can i removing norton please for now please ???

Dave,

I am running Windows XP Ver 5.1.2600 on an HP Pavilion Entertainment PC. Supposed to be media enhanced XP.

Tried to follow your instructions for removing NAV so I could install NOD32. However, NAV did not appear on the Add/Remove Software list under Control Panel (hidden somehow?).

So I used the Norton removal tool from the Symantec website. After restarting the computer it returns you to their website to reinstall their software. Instead, I canceled Explorer and installed NOD32. Afterwards I could not connect to the Internet; my IP address would not renew. It seems like Symantec did some sabotage for not reinstalling (buying) their product.

Any suggestions?

I signed up to renew Norton in late March. The $47.98cost was noted on my charge card in early April. But I am haressed by Norton/Symantec pop-up's that say my computer is "in danger" because I have not renewed. YET, any phone number that they show to call is bogus...either it's not a source to help with a complaint or the number doesn't exist. What can I do? This certainly is not legal..

I tried your steps and when I got to searching for Norton on your first step "6" I encountered a problem on reboot. A black screen came up saying Windows was unable to load properly and listed options for safe mode, last known good configration, and start windows normally, etc. No matter what I clicked, it tried to reboot and then just had a problem somewhere and came back to that screen. I think I might have deleted something after searching for Norton that I wasn't supposed to but I don't know what. I decided to shut it down for a while and come back to it later. It started up again after a few hours but now the windows task bar is not blue anymore, it's white and doesn't look 3D anymore at all. The computer runs ok now but it's still not perfect and I believe that it's not fully stable. I had reinstalled Norton Systemworks because I was trying to avoid renewing (didn't work, still 0 days left). Installed Norton 360 last night and it happened again. I'll see what happens after I get home from work today and try to start it up.

Any thoughts?
Thanks,
Ginger

to install norton 2007 should i uninstall 2006

Hi Dave,
I also used to get that error message while running Microsoft Word, as Carrie does but when I tried your way, it finally stopped complaining. But now it complains with another error message like "Must launch MSI first" or something like that. Also when I searched with TuneUp Utilities 2007 for Norton or Symantec entries I found hundreds of them!! Please help! If I can't solve the problem I will have to format my drive... This error is also the reason for another problem. Since it started appearing my computer can't shut down properly. It stops reacting while saving changes on the hard drive, so I have to shut down it of myself by pressing the operating button. PLEAZE helppppp.....

how to remove my system symantec AntiVirus 2004 and I want Symantec AntiVirus 2004 Enterprise free edition 2004 down load

i have been trying to uninstall NAV because my system started restarting continusly each time i try to scan my system using NAV.i have uninstalled it from add or remove programs.but still the NAV is running.I have not been asked to restart my system after using the add or remove programs option.shall i continue with your further steps of deleating directly from the program files folder?i am scared to do so because my system may suddenly get stuck.can you help!

The final step should have been to purchase and install McAfee because Norton sucks. I don't know how many people I have talked to with these types of problems with Norton.

I want to delete a software from my pc but is refusing. I understand that they might be some changes in my pc due to the fact that I upgrade from win98 to winxp and somewhere along the line Norton Antivirus became corrupted. I wanted to install this time kaspersky. So to uninstall Norton is a problem for me and kaspersky can not proceed because of the presence of Norton. So how do I remove Norton permanently from my pc

i also have many symantec entries under hkey_classes_root... should i delete them too?

Dave, I have the same problem as evryone that writes to you, anyway when I click on add/removr I get the following: Error 1316. A network error occurred while attempting tot read from the C:\Windows\ Installer\Symantec AntiVirus.MSI. Say what? I don't have a symantec cd, never have.

Thank You Norma

have you heard of ntl netgaurd it is internet security from my int supplier and i want to remove it to get something else but ti just says error

I have the same problem as Brian Lamb and Neil. Norton 2006 came with my computer as a trial version but their uninstall feature did not work. I tried manually deleting it. The result is when I search for Norton files, folders and files come up, bt they "cannot be located on disk" and I can't delete them. I am asked to re-insert my disk or do other things to resolve why I can't delete them (some sort of read error on the part of the computer or something.

Ultimately, my only problem is this annoying window that goes away after 4-5 times of pressing ok. How do I resolve this?

Thank you,
Dustin

what all this long discussions means? just download norton removal tool... it will remove all norton products from ur computer

the complete removal of norton mentioned above works....i tried it.

IF YOU WANT TO ROMOVE NORTON JUST GO TO THEIR WEBSITE AND DOWNLOAD THE REMOVAL TOOL!!!!

I've downloaded the removal tool and tried it. It tells me to remove it through add/remove programs first. If i try to do that, the windows installer feature pops up telling me to insert a disc i don't have...and I've had many problems with this. For instance, every time i try to right click on something on my desktop, the windows installer box pops up and tells me to insert a disc. I wasn't even trying to mess with the anti virus! Then after four or five times of clicking cancel it goes away.... what is going on? Somebody help me!

When I try to remove/uninstall norton antivirus 2001 I get a message stating The Log File c/ProgramFiles?\/Navnt/navny.iso is not valid or data has been corrupted.Uninstallation will not continue. I need to remove this as I installen 2007 version and now computer is running slow. Any Help on removing this

thanks for your step by step for removing norton anti-virus. did all your steps and removed 99.9%.
but when in registry i used 'find'(search) for 'norton' and 'symantec' and found 3 entries. this is all new to me. should i delete them?
"ab409 REG_SZ Norton Pre-Installed Enabled Utilities"
"ab(Default) REG_SZ (value not set)"
"ab(Default) REG_SZ Common client.ccEvtMgr.EventManager.1"

Tried to follow step by step directions. My computer does not have a control panel when I go to start. I can find the remove/add but then it asks for authorized system needs to remove program. Help. I want to delete Norton because my computer is so slow now. Help.

The first line of every good virus written today has a command that turns off symantec. It's harder to get rid of semantic antivirus then to write a virus that can get around it.

Hi,

I have tried every method by somehow can remove Norton from my computer, as everytime I want to do it, it comes as start MSI. Pls advise.

where does norton antivirus stores its product key?

MS at December 1, 2007 8:21 AM asked:

where does norton antivirus stores its product key?

Some Norton software requires the product key to remove it. See this web page which discusses where in the registry you can turn off the need to have the product key to uninstall:

http://blogs.ittoolbox.com/linux/locutus/archives/how-to-silently-and-remotely-remove-symantec-antivirus-14625

A brief summary is:

navigate to the following key.

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\
SOFTWARE\
INTEL\
LANDesk\
VirusProtect6\
CurrentVersion\
AdministratorOnly\
Security

In that key make sure the two following values

"LockUnloadServices" and
"UseVPUninstallPassword" are zero.

That takes care of the password asking problem.

Dear Dave,
I have two computers in my home and have recently(as recently as Friday) encountered a hacker. My computer reads: Your IP address is...(IP address goes here)and via this address an unauthorized access was gained by another computer. It is strongly recommended to install an antispyware software to close...
Little things keep popping up on there, Windows Security, Norton Antivirus, we tried to load a new spyware McAfee, but everything keeps locking down and we can't get anything done, what can we do?

is it ok to install norton antivirus 2005 on my ney hp pavilion laptop?

I have been charged a renewal fee that is not correct. Who do I contact to remove?
Ed Craig

I have gotten your CD to install 2008. But I can't get it downloaded. It tells me that I must have 2007 first. I did, so what is the problem? Also you have charged me twice for the
renewal. I need to reimbursed for one of them.

Please help!

Wilma Johnston

This is a very helpful tutorial. It's bad that they keep Norton files on your computer even if you uninstall it.

Larry Stambaugh
http://www.larrystambaugh.com

Just want to say thanks for the very helpful advice!

I can't delete as you suggested Symantec from the Common Files folder or Norton Antivirus from the Program folder. I get this error "Cannot delete ScrAuth.dll: Access is denied. Make sure the disk is not full or write-protected and that the file is not currently in use." I need to get rid of Norton from my PC as I was trying to install a new Anti-virus product and until I get rid of Norton Antivirus I have no way of installing this new product. Norton came already on my pc and I just can't get rid. It doesn't appear on the add/remove program list but is on the C:drive in Program folder. Please can you help.

All you have to do is go here http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/tsgeninfo.nsf/docid/2007080716174339?Open&docid=2005033108162039&nsf=tsgeninfo.nsf&view=docid and click download.It's as simple as that.There's no need to mess with your registry.It only works with Internet Explorer though.Good luck.

Just to let anyone know who has removed or cancelled their Norton. Keep an eye on your bank account. We cancelled ours over a year ago. This week we received a charge for 63.89 for an automatic renewal. Keep in mind this service was cancelled through Norton over a year ago by phone-we did receive a refund at that time. However now we are faced with trying to ge this amount refunded while talking with someone in New Delhi. There is an office in California but they will not release the phone number. so keep an eye on you bank account and credit cards-just because the service has been removed it doesn't mean they won't charge you for it.

Hello there.

I have more or less the same problem as you guys. I've been looking for a solution, but was unable to find one.
My problem is as follows. I have installed Norton Antivirus 2008 trial version and some how i have delete it before it was completely installed. So there is an icon on panel next to Clock, which is called "Norton Protection Center", which is guess is the incomplete part of the norton uninstallment.
Later when i tried to install another Antivirus i was not able to do so, as there was always a message appearing saying that there is a previous incomplete installation, so i need to remove it and then install.
I've tried to install again Norton, thinking that maybe by installing and unistalling i can get read of it.But it didnt work.
I can not delete the folder of Norton in Prgrams.

I would appreciate if you could help me guys.
Thanks in advance.
My e-mail helen8285@mail.ru

Hi Dave

ThanQ very much. It worked for me. U R THE LEGEND.

Regards,
Sai

Hey it is so helpfull.thanks you are the only one to solve this.

Dave, I have the same problem as Norma. When I click on the add/remove I also get the following:

Error 1316. A network error occurred while attempting to read from the C:\Windows\ Installer\Symantec AntiVirus.MSI.

What should I do? Thank you! =)

very nice instructions, detailed and such. worked excellent in removing expired Norton Sys Works 2006 from my brother's system.

now, for all who do not have(or does not appear) norton in add/remove programs, all i did was get their little removal tool(yes i know how pesky it is) to do the job, then proceeded to erase the registry keys myself.

it is completely safe to erase the registry keys so as long as you remove the ones he asks you to.
i believe he would never tell you to erase a key that could potentially damage your system, would he? why would he need to do that?

as far as backing up the registry, 'tis a pretty simple task that can be done quickly.

~ go to run, type 'regedit' without 's of course.

~ once in the program go to file and click on export.

~ on the subsequent save menu, make sure the bullet "all" is selected, not the "selected branch" one.

~ specify a file name and location for the backup and click ok.
*note that regedit might freeze momentarily during this, just let him do its job.

i hope this information was useful to anyone, if not, well. D:

Hi! I'm a novice who is trying to protect her machine. Will these programs all running at the same time do it?

Avira AntiVir
ThreatFire
ComodoBOClean
Comodo Firewall
WinPatrol

have a lot to say, and questions of my own for that matter, but most of all I'd like to say thank you for all your efforts

My norton is password protected and I don't have it. How do I remove it.
Thanks
Bill

I just want to say thanks, with deleting Norton and Symantic the way you advised it fixed word 2007. Thanks again.

Paul Freer

Hi Dave, I tried the steps, out lined in this article to remove norton anti-virus. The problem is that there is a reference to symantic and norton still in my system. As a result my computer will only start in safe mode. how do I down load the removal tool so that i may make a disc out of it ???

Go to norton.com ....in the search box type Norton removal tool .......just download it and it should remove every aspect of norton on your computer......good luck

Your Norton cleaning recipe fixed what I thought was an XP network problem. I had removed Norton, but parts of it were still clinging to life and disabling incoming and outgoing traffic, including pings! Thanks.

Thank you so much! I followed all the steps and it worked very well; very easy to understand. The only thing I would add is that if you run into error messages when trying to delete files, try downloading a utility like Unlocker and you should be able to delete them without a problem (just google "unlocker").

I still need help though!!!! After completing all the steps I installed Avast as my new virus protection software. I am STILL getting error messages from Avast about Symantec being installed on my computer, even though I can't find it anywhere. There must still be a couple of references buried even deeper. Any thoughts...?

(my situation was systemworks 2003 on vista)

Please advise how to remove the white web page from my desktop or computer screen. It has been there since Nov. 12, 2008. It occupies one-sixth of the screen. Since it has filled up the whole desktop area vertically, the buttons for exit ("X") could not be seen and therefore I could not use any to exit the web page.
I don't know if its URL is http://www,nsn,com as that is what appeared when I right-clicked the white spaced (web page). Thank you. -- Ka Chito

This was great. Thanks.

The main reason i wanted to remove it was to get rid of the product key. Norton automatically stores the key in a hidden registry file so that when you install it again it would automatically detect the key and install. Its a bit anoying but i suppose it stops piracy.

The thread was: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/Software/Symantec

every time you clicked on one of those sub keys, the product key pops up for a second and then disappears. I don't really know what symantec did there. hmmmm.

All i do know now is that i can re-install Norton with a different product key.

Nice
Marek

Dear Dave
I am facing with Norton's head ache now and trying to get rid of the same. I did everything suggested in your following url:
http://www.askdavetaylor.com/how_can_i_fully_remove_norton_antivirus_from_my_system.html

But, I think there is a mistake in your valuable direction as follows:

"5. Click (+) next to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE"

should read HKEY_CURRENT_USER instead. Please correct your webpage if I am correct just to help seekers like me.
Thanks for your efforts.

P.Karthigayan,
Chennai,India.

Dave,

I went to the 1st step of uninstalling Norton (Add/Remove programs, select Norton, hit "Change",) and there was a delay, then a setup error message saying "Setup has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience." What now?

Thanks

I tried doing what you told me... however when I get to step 3, an notification will come out saying "An open Web browser window such as Internet Explorer or Firefox, has been detected which is preventing the process from continuing. Please close any open Window browser and start again." However, none of these apply to me, because I did what it said, and it still didn't work. Plus, since my computer type is window vista..will that apply to the steps.

Hi Dave,

I have Vista and Norton was pre-installed. And as the dude at Circuit City said, with only 1 GB, and Norton always running, PC is slow...even having cable internet. I have recently installed a version of Word...if I uninstall Norton, will word be affected? Thanks, in advance, to you...or anyone who has advice.

Sam

you guys should check out http://www.appremover.com

Hi Dave

I did everything that you outlined on how to remove Norton Anitivirus except step 5.

I cant remove -"symantec shared"under program files/common files

I am getting an error message saying
"cannot delete symlcnet.dll access is denied"

Please help

Thanks

Hey so when i try to delete norton i am able to go into control panel and begin the deleting process but before it completely deletes it freezes and it wont finish all the way and ive tried it 3 times. how do i fix this??

YOU ARE ALL WRONG!

You can remove Norton Virus check, but if you use the Google (or maybe Yahoo) Toolbar and gmail.com, Norton will reinstall itself, since this is the antivirus software used by these mail service providers.

so, why remove Norton, just to get viruses and trojans on your PC?

I'm trying to install Norton 360 but it won't work. I appeared to have a virus (Adware Hotbar) but I think I've removed that now. However, it still won't install. Something about it can't find where to put it or maybe a registry problem.

Usefull topic. Finally i found where rest files were hiding. Thanx. BUT BE CAREFULLY AND MAKE WARNING THAT DELETING THOSE FOLDERS MAY RESULT YOU FOR IMPROPER WORK OF OTHER SYMANTEC PROGRAMS SUCH AS WINFAX! In my case- i deleted also WinFax from Symantec folder, cuz forgot abt that :/
Solution: just reinstal after all :)

I want to remove my norton antivirus completyely but when i am removing there is an error. i have tried your above mentioned point but still error. there is written first i uninstall then remove. so i don't know how to uninstall

Hi Dave,
I read through your directions to uninstall norton anti-virus software, but when i go into the add/remove programme Norton anti-virus isn't there, but it appears when i do a folder and file search so i try to delete them but it says that "make sure that it is not write-protected or the disk is full" I can't seem to delete these files, can you please tell me how to delete these permanently as I have bought MacAfee antivirus software that I would like to install.
Thanks
Melissa

Hallo dave,
I had installed mcafee antivirus,but now i want to uninstall it,but unable to remove, as getting a message that there is error1721 & the program required for this install to complete could not be run,i am not able to install new updated antivirus.don"t know what to do?

Hallo dave,
I used a trial version of quick heal anti virus. i uninstalled it after the expiry date. now no antivirus is being installed. Please suggest how can I remove quickHeal completely from my computer.

With regards,

Dibyendu

Hi Dave,

I'm really lucky to have found your site. And also THANK you so so much for this post. I'm a vista user and i had this problem with Norton AV. The ridiculous Norton setup failed and damaged my registry and it affected especially MS Office, my right click button options, etc.

I've been hunting for a solution for 2 years! and I'm overjoyed to finally remove the condemn Norton AV. Your steps saved me from reformatting my comp, and also others who will come across this soon :)

I praise and thank God for guys like you.
Keep up the good work man!

Regards,
gadiy.

please try to use sytmetc remove tools

Dave, I followed the instructions that you gave. Restarted the computer and everything started and loaded up just fine. After a couple of days I deleted the backup that I'd made of the registry... MISTAKE!!!

Now I've found out that I can't download any files, either from the internet nor from email. It says it downloads or saves to 99% and then it just hangs there.

Any suggestions?? I lost the copy of Norton that I had in a fire and now I can't even re-install it.

HELP??!!??

Excellent walkthrough- found it very helpful. Tried to delete the Symantec folder, but said it couldn't for some reason. Found out that an Exe file was still running (AFTER I had installed the thing...). simply did cntl-alt-del to get rid of it. no problems after that. Cheers for the help- been trying for ages to get rid of the blasted program

Hi Dave,

I have read a lot of e-mails regarding the removal of Norton antivirus products. At the moment I am experiencing same issues. Once the program is removed, what is the best program you can recommend to keep my system protected. Is there any free on-only product. I bought a Norton 360 but have been unable to install due to issues with the old Norton 2003 I am trying to uninstall.

HELP it sais i need information to delete these files from common files :S i am the computer adiminstator and have never had a problem like this before, this god damn nortan doesnt want to leave!

Hey Dave Um I Need help i cant remove norton anti virus and i tried to do what you said right at the top but it aint working because i dont have add/remove program soo help pleaseeee

There's a lightweight utility called AppRemover which will completely remove several different Norton products automatically. It's a free download available at http://www.appremover.com/

Oh, and here is a list of the applications it currently fully supports:
http://www.appremover.com/supported-applications

Go to symantec

http://service1.symantec.com/Support/tsgeninfo.nsf/docid/2005033108162039

and download a norton removal tool. Thats the easiest way. Just ensure that you choose the one for the version you have

Hi Dave, I'm trying to uninstall norton, not sure how it got onto my system.
When i go into control panel i can't see where my ADD/REMOVE programs options is. Can you help me out.
In the programs and features i have options to uninstall a program, how to install new program, but when i go into these i cant see anything that say's it's norton.
In my security setting it tells me that Malware is off because Norton Internet Security is out of date, this is what i want to remove, i cant seem to install anything untill this has been removed.
I have had my pc for 3years and always used AVG.

Hope you can help

I too had that God-forsaken Norton on my CPU. I am on a network. I removed norton and now, I can't connect to the internet, although all the other computers that are on my network can. Oh, I'm using Vista (I know... It just keeps getting better...) Because I can't connect to the internet, I can't load my new anti-virus software... Help, please...

Hi Dave once I uninstalled my Norton antivirus my computer could not connect to the internet when I checked my network its stating that my computer is connected to an unidentified network. It seems like my computer can't identify the network it's connected to. What could I do? It was working fine until I uninstalled the Norton. the other two computers that's connecting to the router are ok they can connect to the internet except for the main computer that's physically connecting to the router and modem.

Hi,
I installed Trend Micro on my computer and when I bought my computer Norton had put their security on it. So I went to install both of them and then Trend stopped working. Now I can't delete Norton because I don't have the password to renew it because i threw the box in the bin. When I try to delete norton it says cannot find it. Can you tell me how to delete it?

Cheers A ++++ Dave Thanks for your site. I have tried on many many many attempts to remove Norton. I did it after reading your sight for the first time. And I did not have to pay a thing! Thanks for your add on the web. Getting help for free is a good thing! Thanks once again for your help! Now the norton is off. The norton has ideas for every thing, except for uninstalling the application. Cheer! Many Many Thanks A++++ And yes, I do have another Antivirus on my PC and it was conflicting. Mainly it would come on when I was in the middle of something and so I had to stop doing what I was doing as it would just hinder my progress.

I want to make a live CD from Norton AntiVirus

It is possible ?

i like this site

I need help to remove this norton. I tried everything and i still hve the icon beside my clock. HELP!!!

To uninstall Norton go to google and type in symnrt, download the tool and run it