Problems Removing AVG

Erase the AVG software from your hard drive without errors.

While most basic software applications are easily removed by running an uninstaller utility or manually deleting the program folder, programs that are more complex will install components that must run continuously. This is especially true for security programs such as AVG. When you install the AVG security program, the application will bind to several system components in your operating system. Additionally, the program has built-in protection that prevents other applications from tampering with its files. When you try to remove AVG through conventional methods, the uninstall process will often fail and you could be prompted with errors that relate to the inability to overwrite existing files.

Instructions

Disable AVG Resident Shield

1. Right-click the "AVG" icon in your system tray located next to the system clock.

2. Click "Open AVG User Interface."

3. Double-click the "Resident Shield" icon located at the bottom of the screen.

4. Click to uncheck the check box next to "Resident Shield active" and then click the "Save changes" button.

5. Close the AVG User Interface.

Disable AVG Components from Windows Startup

1. Press the "Windows" and "R" keys simultaneously on your keyboard to load a Run box.

2. Type "Msconfig" into the Run box and click "OK." This loads the Microsoft System Configuration Utility.

3. Click the "Services" tab. This displays a list of all system services that run in Windows. Click "Hide all Microsoft services" at the bottom of the window. This will ensure that only third-party services are displayed.

4. Click to uncheck all of the "AVG" services and then press the "Apply" button. The services are all in alphabetical order. The number of AVG services listed will depend on the version of AVG you use.

5. Click the "Startup" tab. This displays all startup programs. Click to uncheck all of the "AVG" startup program items and then press "Apply."

6. Click the "OK" button and restart your computer.

Boot in Safe Mode and Uninstall AVG

1. Press the "F8" key continuously numerous times, as your computer boots up. This will display a Windows startup menu.

2. Use the "Arrow" and "Enter" keys on your keyboard to select "Safe Mode." This loads your computer with limited system services and components enabled.

3. Press the "Windows" and "R" keys simultaneously to load a Run box.

4. Type "Appwiz.cpl" into the Run box and click "OK." This opens the Windows component that allows you to uninstall programs.

5. Right-click "AVG" and select "Uninstall." Click the "OK" button on the confirmation dialog and Windows will automatically uninstall the AVG software.

6. Click "OK" on the completed dialog, and then reboot your computer.

References

• AVG: Frequently Asked Questions
• Microsoft: How to TroubleShoot Configuration Errors by Using the System Configuration Utility in Windows XP
• Microsoft: Start your Computer in Safe Mode
• Microsoft: Troubleshoot Installing or Uninstalling Programs