AppRemover 3.1.22.1

Overview

Even though security suites are must-have tools for anyone that has a computer connected to the internet, not all of them are very efficient at protecting your data. Whilst it is bad enough that you had your data compromised, installing a new security software utility on your machine can develop further complications that will not let you setup a new antivirus or anti-spyware because the old product did not uninstall properly. In case you are having problems with completely removing your current antivirus utility from your computer, then you should learn more about the AppRemover software.

The AppRemover is especially designed to eliminate the frustration and the time you spend on clearing out all traces of the security software and preparing the system for the new one. What is great about it is that it can help you even in circumstances where you cannot uninstall the old antivirus program because you forgot your master password.

Installation

The AppRemover can be either installed or simply run from its location, this later option being useful on a USB stick as well. Do note that if you choose Full Installation you'll also be installing the OPSWAT Security Toolbar, set OPSWAT as your browser's default search engine, install the Metascan Client, Install Secure Virtual Desktop, and receive news and info from OPSWAT. If you don't want these on your system, you can choose Custom Install.

The AppRemover is compatible with Windows 2000 and newer versions up to Windows 8.

Interface

The interface of AppRemover is quite simple and intuitive with clearly marked options and buttons. Once you launch the product you'll have to agree with the Terms and conditions and hit "Start". It will then detect your installed products matching its database.

After the scan finishes, you'll be presented with a list of products, including versions, split into two main categories: Security Applications and Public File Sharing. You can choose the products you want removed and click on the big blue "Remove selected applications" button.

Pros

Taken as a whole, the AppRemover is a very useful free application and one of its most appreciated features is the detection of the security products on your machine. You would be surprised at how many times you see old files of products in the Windows Management Instrumentation that you thought were removed long ago. However, thanks to its capabilities, you will have nothing to worry about in terms of leaving any erroneous WMIs behind.

The latest versions also removes public file sharing applications from your system. This is a much expected addition to its capabilities, which hints at more types of software to be added (hopefully) in the future as well.

Cons

Its main problem is that it has limited support for security and public sharing software, but the list of supported apps is constantly growing.

Alternatives

An alternative to AppRemover is the Revo Uninstaller software, a tool designed by VS Revo Group. Available in both free and paid versions, the Revo Uninstaller is able to perform the scanning and cleaning of security products with just as much efficiency. However, if you are looking for a professional application that includes features needed by expert users, then Glary Utilities Free (also available in a paid version) is a very nice choice.

Conclusion

The AppRemover software is a freeware that aims to eliminate the traces of old products that impede you from installing a new security suite. The main problem with this application is that it seems to have limited support. However, if you are trying to eliminate a product present in its support list, you will be very happy with the results.