Even after running the specialized uninstaller, Antivirus Removal Tool is still detecting the antivirus as currently being installed. Why is that?
Some uninstallers (even the specialized ones) leave behind the entry created by the antivirus in the WMI’s database that reports to the OS that the antivirus is installed.
Even after running the specialized uninstaller, Antivirus Removal Tool is still finding leftover folders for the antivirus. Why is that?
The most common reason is that some uninstallers, in the process of doing their job, will themselves create and leave folders on the system. Others will still leave some harmless folders belonging to the antivirus behind. Anyway, it’s generally a good practice to run the uninstaller in Windows safe mode and to restart the computer after it finishes, to assure the best results.
Why there is no right-click option to delete the detected folders?
Because the purpose of the functionality is to inform about what products were installed in the past, so that the user can run the specialized uninstaller. The specialized uninstaller will do a proper job removing all leftovers (files, drivers, services, registry entries) and not only folders.
Can the search for previously installed antivirus produce false positive results?
Rarely, but yes, it’s possible. Always expand the nodes to verify and confirm the results. Note that the program will simply present the detected folders, it will not delete or perform any other operation on them.
The uninstaller will not run, is giving errors, cannot remove the antivirus, broke Windows installation, etc.
The specialized uninstallers are taken from the official sites without modifications and are provided “as is”. Always make sure to follow the tools instructions. If you find problems, please contact the utility manufacturer.
What antivirus are supported?
All the ones listed in the combobox of the program (27 in total). Among those are the most common antivirus programs. Here’s a list: Adaware, Avast, AVG, Avira, BigFix, Bitdefender, Comodo, Dr.Web, Emsisoft, eScan, ESET, F-Secure, G DATA, K7 Computing, Kaspersky, Malwarebytes, McAfee, Microsoft Security Essentials, Norton, Panda, Symantec Endpoint Protection, TrendMicro, Total Defense, TrustPort, Vipre, Webroot, ZoneAlarm.