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Ultimate Guide: How to Remove Norton Completely from Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Solution)

February 22, 2026February 22, 2026| multi_admmulti_adm| 0 Comment| 9:01 am
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Introduction

Are you searching for a reliable solution to remove Norton completely from Windows 11? Whether you’re experiencing issues with your PC’s performance or want to switch antivirus programs, uninstalling Norton Security isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step, provide troubleshooting tips, and ensure no leftover files remain. We’ll also cover tools and manual methods, so you can confidently achieve a clean uninstall.

Table of Contents

Why Remove Norton from Windows 11?

Many users choose to uninstall Norton from Windows 11 for various reasons, such as:

  • Switching to another antivirus program.
  • Performance issues or system slowdowns.
  • Expired subscription or unwanted notifications.
  • Software conflicts after a Windows 11 upgrade.

No matter your reason, following a thorough removal process helps avoid problems like leftover files, registry entries, or security conflicts.

Preparation Before Uninstalling

Before you begin, make sure to:

  • Save all important work and close any running applications.
  • Back up important data, just in case.
  • Check if you have your Norton account details and product key, especially if you want to reinstall later.

This preparation ensures a smoother and safer uninstall process.

How to Uninstall Norton Using Windows Settings

The first method to remove Norton from Windows 11 is using the built-in Windows Settings:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed Apps.
  3. Scroll to find Norton Security (or Norton 360, Norton Antivirus, etc.).
  4. Click the three-dot menu next to it and select Uninstall.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Note: Sometimes, this method doesn’t remove all leftover files and registry entries. For a cleaner uninstall, use the Norton Removal Tool as described below.

Using the Norton Remove and Reinstall Tool

If the standard uninstall doesn’t work or you want to ensure complete removal of Norton from Windows 11, use the official Norton Remove and Reinstall Tool:

  1. Download the Norton Remove and Reinstall Tool from the official Norton website.
  2. Run the tool as an administrator.
  3. Choose the Remove Only option if you do not want to reinstall Norton.
  4. Follow the prompts and restart your PC when asked.

This method is highly effective in eliminating stubborn files, drivers, and background services associated with Norton.

Manually Remove Norton Leftovers

Sometimes, even after using removal tools, Norton leaves behind traces on your system. Here’s how to manually remove remaining files and registry entries:

  • Delete leftover program files:
    • Open File Explorer and go to C:\Program Files and C:\Program Files (x86).
    • Delete any folders named ‘Norton’ or ‘Symantec’.
  • Clear temporary files:
    • Press Win + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
    • Delete all files in the folder.
  • Clean registry entries (Advanced users):
    • Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
    • Back up your registry before making changes.
    • Search for and delete registry keys related to ‘Norton’ or ‘Symantec’.

Warning: Editing the registry can cause system issues if done incorrectly. Only proceed if you are comfortable with advanced Windows operations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues During Uninstall

If you encounter errors or issues while trying to uninstall Norton from Windows 11, try these solutions:

  • Restart your PC and try again.
  • Use Safe Mode: Boot into Safe Mode and repeat the uninstall process.
  • Check for running Norton processes: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), end all Norton-related tasks, and retry.
  • Contact Norton Support: If all else fails, reach out to Norton customer care for additional help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will uninstalling Norton leave my PC unprotected?
A: Yes, unless you have another antivirus installed. Windows Defender will automatically activate if no other antivirus is detected.
Q: Can I reinstall Norton after removing it?
A: Yes. Just use your product key or Norton account to download and reinstall the software.
Q: What if I see Norton still listed after uninstalling?
A: Use the Norton Remove and Reinstall Tool or manually delete leftover files and registry entries as described above.
Q: Is it safe to use registry cleaners?
A: Manual cleaning is preferred. Use trusted software only if you’re experienced, as registry cleaners can cause problems if misused.

Conclusion

Removing Norton completely from Windows 11 is achievable by following the right steps: starting with the standard uninstall method, using the official removal tool, and cleaning up leftover files and registry entries. This step-by-step solution for uninstalling Norton on Windows 11 helps ensure your system is free of unnecessary files and ready for a new security setup. If you encounter issues, our troubleshooting section should help you resolve them quickly. Enjoy a clean, fast, and secure Windows 11 experience!

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