If you’ve just bought a new laptop or PC, chances are it came with McAfee LiveSafe preinstalled. While some people like McAfee’s extra security features, many users prefer relying on Windows Security (Defender) or another antivirus program. If you’re in the second group, you’ve probably wondered: How do I completely remove McAfee LiveSafe from Windows 11?
The good news is—it’s easier than you think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through different ways to uninstall McAfee LiveSafe, ensure there are no leftovers, and switch smoothly to another security solution.
Why Remove McAfee LiveSafe?
Before we get to the steps, let’s look at some common reasons people uninstall McAfee.
1. You Prefer Windows Defender
Windows 11 already comes with Windows Security (Defender), which is lightweight, free, and provides solid protection for most users.
2. Performance Issues
McAfee can be resource-heavy. If your PC feels slower, uninstalling it can give you a noticeable performance boost.
3. Expired Trial Version
Most new devices come with a 30-day McAfee trial. Once it expires, you’ll get constant renewal reminders unless you remove it.
4. Switching to Another Antivirus
If you’ve purchased another antivirus subscription (like Bitdefender or Norton), you’ll need to uninstall McAfee first to avoid conflicts.
How to Uninstall McAfee LiveSafe from Windows 11
There are several ways to do it. Let’s go step by step.
Method 1: Uninstall McAfee via Windows 11 Settings
This is the easiest and most common way.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Click on Apps from the left sidebar.
- Select Installed apps.
- Scroll down or search for McAfee LiveSafe.
- Click the three-dot menu (…) → Uninstall.
- Confirm the action when prompted.
- Follow the uninstaller instructions.
👉 After the uninstall process, restart your computer.
Method 2: Uninstall McAfee via Control Panel
If you prefer the old-school way, Control Panel works too.
Steps:
- Press Windows + S and type Control Panel.
- Open it and select Programs → Programs and Features.
- Find McAfee LiveSafe in the list.
- Right-click it and choose Uninstall/Change.
- Follow the prompts to remove it.
Method 3: Use the McAfee Removal Tool (MCPR)
Sometimes McAfee doesn’t uninstall completely using the regular method. That’s where MCPR comes in.
Steps:
- Go to McAfee’s official website and download the MCPR tool.
- Run the file (
MCPR.exe) as an administrator. - Accept the license agreement.
- Enter the security validation code.
- Let the tool remove all McAfee products.
- Restart your PC when prompted.
👉 This ensures there are no leftover files, drivers, or registry entries.
Method 4: Uninstall McAfee Using PowerShell (Advanced)
For advanced users, you can use PowerShell to remove McAfee.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X → select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- Run this command to list McAfee packages:
Get-AppxPackage *McAfee* | Remove-AppxPackage - Wait for the process to complete.
👉 This works best for preinstalled McAfee apps from the Microsoft Store.
How to Make Sure McAfee Is Completely Removed
After uninstalling, you’ll want to confirm that no traces are left.
Step 1: Check Installed Apps
Go back to Settings → Apps → Installed apps and make sure McAfee doesn’t appear anymore.
Step 2: Check System Tray
Look at the taskbar system tray (bottom-right corner). If McAfee icons are gone, that’s a good sign.
Step 3: Use MCPR
If you still see leftover files or services, run the MCPR tool for a deep clean.
What Happens After You Remove McAfee LiveSafe?
Here’s the good news: once you uninstall McAfee, Windows Defender automatically activates to keep your PC protected. You won’t be left vulnerable.
How to Verify Windows Defender Is Active
- Open Windows Security (search from Start).
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- It should say Microsoft Defender Antivirus is active.
Should You Rely on Windows Defender or Install Another Antivirus?
That depends on your needs.
- ✅ Windows Defender: Great for most users, lightweight, and free.
- ✅ Third-Party Antivirus: If you want extra features like VPN, parental controls, or identity theft protection.
👉 For everyday use, Defender + safe browsing habits is more than enough.
Tips Before Removing McAfee LiveSafe
- Make sure you have another antivirus ready (if not using Defender).
- Back up your system before making major changes.
- If you paid for McAfee, consider exporting your license for another device before uninstalling.
Common Problems When Removing McAfee
1. Uninstall Button Greyed Out
Your PC may be managed by your organization. Contact IT support.
2. McAfee Keeps Reappearing After Restart
Use the MCPR tool to completely wipe it.
3. Windows Defender Doesn’t Turn On
Restart your PC. If Defender still won’t activate, go to Windows Security → Virus & threat protection settings and manually enable it.
Alternatives to McAfee LiveSafe
If you decide not to use McAfee, here are solid antivirus alternatives:
- Windows Defender – Built-in, free, solid protection.
- Bitdefender – Great balance of performance and security.
- Norton 360 – Comes with cloud backup and VPN.
- Kaspersky – Strong malware protection.
- Avast/AVG – Decent free antivirus options.
Conclusion
Uninstalling McAfee LiveSafe from Windows 11 is simple when you know the right steps. You can remove it using Windows Settings, Control Panel, MCPR tool, or PowerShell.
Once McAfee is gone, Windows Defender automatically takes over, so your PC remains protected.
Whether you’re switching to Defender or another antivirus, removing McAfee ensures your system runs smoother without software conflicts.
FAQs
1. Is McAfee LiveSafe necessary on Windows 11?
Not really. Windows Defender offers enough protection for most users, so McAfee isn’t strictly necessary.
2. Does uninstalling McAfee leave my PC unprotected?
No. Windows Defender automatically activates once McAfee is removed.
3. Why can’t I uninstall McAfee LiveSafe normally?
Sometimes leftovers remain. Use the MCPR tool for a complete uninstall.
4. Can I reinstall McAfee after removing it?
Yes, you can download it again from McAfee’s official website if you change your mind.
5. Which is better: McAfee or Windows Defender?
McAfee has more features, but Windows Defender is lighter, free, and perfectly fine for everyday users.