Time to Complete (in minutes): 15
- Question:
- How do I remove a program in Windows XP?
- Answer:
-
The preferred method for removing programs from Windows XP is through the Add/Remove Programs utility. Simply dragging files and folders to the Recycle Bin can cause system errors or cause your computer to stop responding.
Notes:
- Depending upon your system configuration and the method in which a particular program was originally installed, you may need computer administrator privileges to complete this process.
- If you get an error message saying you do not have access to the Add/Remove Programs utility or to the program you want to remove, log on to your computer with an account that has computer administrator privileges and try again.
- If you do not have an account with computer administrator privileges, contact your departmental computer support technician or the person who originally configured your computer.
There are some programs, such as Internet Explorer, that you cannot remove using the Add/Remove Programs utility. Refer to your program's technical information for removal instructions.
To uninstall a program using the Add/Remove Programs utility:
- Click the Start button, and select Control Panel.
- Click the Add or Remove Programs link.
- From the Currently Installed Programs list, select the program you want to uninstall.
Note: Some software programs have uninstall utilities that do not appear in the Currently Installed Programs list. If the software you want to uninstall is not listed, check your software documentation or contact the software manufacturer for more information.
- Click the Change/Remove button.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Notes:
- If you get an error saying that an instance of the program you want to remove is in use:
- Press Ctrl+Alt+Del.
- Click the Task Manager button.
- Select the Applications tab.
- Select the program you want to remove.
- Click the End Task button.
- If you get a message that the program is not responding, click the End Task button.
- Close the Windows Task Manager window.
- If the Remove Shared File window opens, click the No to All button.
