PC Matic is an antivirus and system optimization tool offered for Windows and Mac. There are several reasons to uninstall it, from finding a more suitable security solution to resolving compatibility conflicts or simply deciding you no longer need it installed.
This article will cover removing PC Matic from your Windows PC or Mac.
How to Uninstall PC Matic on Windows
- Standard Uninstall Process
- Open the Windows Start menu and navigate to Settings.
- Click on Apps (or Apps & Features).
- In the list of installed programs, search for “PC Matic” and “PC Matic Super Shield.” You’ll need to uninstall both components individually.
- Click on each PC Matic entry and select the Uninstall button. Follow any prompts to complete the process.
- Removing Leftover Files (Advanced)
Open Windows File Explorer and navigate to the following locations:
- C:\Program Files (x86)\PC Matic
- C:\ProgramData\PC Matic
- C:\Program Files (x86)\PC Pitstop (or C:\ProgramData\PC Pitstop)
- Delete any remaining PC Matic-related folders or files you find in these locations.
How to Uninstall PC Matic on Mac
- Standard Uninstall Process
- Open Finder and go to the Applications folder.
- Locate the PC Matic application.
- Right-click (or Ctrl-click) the PC Matic app and select “Move to Trash” (or “Move to Bin”).
- Empty your Trash to complete the process.
- Optional: Cleaning Up Leftover Files on Mac (Advanced)
Some residual PC Matic files might remain on your Mac after the standard uninstall. To remove these, check the following locations:
- /Library/Application Support/PC Matic/
- ~/Library/Application Support/PC Matic/
Delete any folders or files related to PC Matic within these directories.
Removing PC Matic Web Companion
PC Matic may sometimes install a browser extension and its main antivirus component. If you want to completely remove all traces of PC Matic, it’s important to uninstall this extension as well. Here’s how to do it for popular browsers:
Chrome
- Click the three vertical dots (menu icon) in the top-right corner.
- Select “More tools” -> “Extensions”.
- Find “PC Matic Web Companion” (or a similar name) and click “Remove.”
- Confirm the removal in the pop-up dialog.
Firefox
- Click the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top-right corner.
- Select “Add-ons and themes.”
- Click the “Extensions” tab on the left.
- Locate “PC Matic Web Companion” and click the three dots next to it.
- Select “Remove”.
Microsoft Edge
- Click the three horizontal dots (menu icon) in the top-right corner.
- Select “Extensions”.
- Find “PC Matic Web Companion” and click “Remove.”
Troubleshooting Uninstall Issues
- PC Matic still running: Make sure both PC Matic and PC Pitstop are exited completely. If needed, use the Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac) to check for running processes.
- Permissions Issues: You may need administrator privileges to complete the removal process.
- Difficult uninstalls: If you encounter any problems during the uninstall, refer to the PC Matic support website or contact their customer support.
PC Matic Alternatives: Stay Protected
If you’re looking for a replacement antivirus, consider these options:
- Bitdefender Antivirus Plus: Excellent malware detection and extra features like a password manager.
- Norton 360: A comprehensive suite that includes antivirus software, VPNs, and other security tools.
FAQs
Why might I choose to uninstall PC Matic?
Reasons might include switching to another antivirus, performance problems, or simply deciding you no longer require it.
Will uninstalling PC Matic cancel my subscription?
No, uninstalling the software doesn’t automatically cancel your subscription. You’ll need to manage your subscription separately through PC Matic customer support.
Can I reinstall PC Matic later?
Yes, you can always reinstall PC Matic. Visit the PC Matic website to download the latest installer and follow the installation instructions. You may need to reactivate your subscription.