How to Remove Backup Software From an External Drive
Some external hard drives come with pre-installed software, such as backup software that is designed for use with that particular external hard drive. The software usually allows the user to automate computer backups, allowing backup schedules to be set as well as which files and folders to back up. However, some of these programs are costly to use, might interfere with existing programs or might be replaced by a better program. Removing this pre-installed backup software is similar to removing a file or program from your computer hard drive.
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Instructions
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Plug in the power supply for the external hard drive (if it has one) and plug the external hard drive into an available USB port on your computer. In a few seconds you should see the external hard drive appear as a new drive on your computer desktop.
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Double click on the external hard drive icon, which will open up the drive folders and files. If a backup software program is installed on the drive, locate the folder of the program on the drive. The best way to quickly locate the backup software on the external hard drive is to use your computer's search option within the external drive. The search text box should be located to the right or left of the folders for which you are searching. Type in "backup software" and click "Search."
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Browse the results that come up in the search and locate an "Uninstall" file within the backup software program. Double click on this file and follow the on-screen instructions to remove the backup software.
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Click and drag the backup software program and folder to your computer's recycle or trash bin, if you can't locate an "Uninstall" file for the backup program. You may need to disconnect the external hard drive and then reconnect it to complete the removal process.
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Tips & Warnings
The first time you plug in the drive, the backup software program may load up to encourage its use. Take this time to locate the "Uninstall" option on screen, if it is available, when the backup software starts up.
Only delete the files and folder related to the backup software program. Always try to locate an "Uninstall" option before trying to cut and drag the files to the trash bin.
