Removal Tools

[system]

Hi,
When I was browsing the forums yesterday, I read a post from DavidR who advocated that when uninstalling security programs it is
advisable to use the program’s dedicated removal tool as opposed to a third party removal program such as Revo.

I would like to know the reasons for this. In the past I have used Avast’s removal tool but I know I have used Revo uninstaller
when removing certain other programs,mainly FW’s, with no seemingly adverse effects.

Perhaps David or anyone else can answer this question,would be grateful.

Cheers, BobbyZee67

[Pondus]

Some info here

Ultimate List of Uninstallers http://uninstallers.blogspot.com/

[system]

I see that you now have 20 posts so please go to PROFILE then Modify Profile then Forum Profile Information then update your Signature: with information like my signature as this helps the helpers offer pertinent advice.

I do not use Revo to uninstall thing as it could remove things that should not be removed unless you know exactly what you are doing.

The Ultimate List of Uninstallers is a very good resource.

[bob3160]

There is a very simple reason:
Revo and some of the other Un-installers are generic uninstallers.
Simply put, they get rid of most of the stuff.

When it comes to removing an antivirus program which runs as a service on your system and is
in some ways involved in all parts of the operating system, you need a specific uninstaller capable of removing every part of the antivirus program.
Without this capability, some critical parts could remain and interfere with the new antivirus program being installed. (Also called a conflict.)

I am in some ways similar to a Revo uninstaller. Fairly good at doing a lot of things but far from being an expert at those things I know something about. ;D

[DavidR]

That is exactly what I mean, the manufacturer knows where all elements are installed where a third party uninstaller may not and it is essential to remove all elements.

[Lisandro]

@bob3160 post:4

When it comes to removing an antivirus program which runs as a service on your system and is
in some ways involved in all parts of the operating system, you need a specific uninstaller capable of removing every part of the antivirus program.
Without this capability, some critical parts could remain and interfere with the new antivirus program being installed.

+1
Revo is specially bad if the uninstallation process requires, by its own, a reboot.

[system]

@bob3160 post:4

Revo and some of the other Un-installers are generic uninstallers.
Simply put, they get rid of most of the stuff.

When it comes to removing an antivirus program which runs as a service on your system and is in some ways involved in all parts of the operating system, you need a specific uninstaller capable of removing every part of the antivirus program.
Without this capability, some critical parts could remain and interfere with the new antivirus program being installed. (Also called a conflict.)

Bob, I couldn’t have said it better. Nice job.

[system]

Many thanks guys for all your replies,you learn something new every day!Like I said,havn’t encountered any problems and OS seems to
be problem free but will stick to dedicated uninstallers in future.

Once again,many thanks for excellent advice and support.

Cheers, BobbyZee67