How Do I Reinstall McAfee

Question

Hi there,   I am currently working on a PC for my brother-in-law.  He recently bought a new Dell Dimension E520 which came with McAfee anti-virus software preinstalled.  The first thing he did when he got it out of the box was to try and install AOL, with disasterous results.  I don't know if it was because the version of AOL that he had was not compatible with Windows Vista, or the fact that Vista is not compatible with the USB modem that he has, but the installation went badly and totally the PC up.   I know a bit about PCs so was drafted in to help.  I had to reinstall Windows Vista along with all necessary hardware drivers.  Everything is working fine, however I am unsure as to how to get his McAfee anti-virus back.  There was no re-installation disk supplied with the PC, and he didn't register the preinstalled software with McAfee before the problems arose.  I have been to the McAfee website however it appears that you need to have a username and password in order to log in and download software that has been paid for with your subscription.  Is it possible that this account is set up by Dell when the PC is orderd with McAfee preloaded?   Can anyone help me out here and tell me how I can reinstall the McAfee subscription that my brother-in-law bought preloaded on his Dell?   Thanks,   Rob

ky331 · Answer

there should be  a way to 'revert' a PC to its original (out-of-the-box) configuration... I'll leave it to someone else to supply details, if you so wish.   However:   1) Given that you've already successfully reinstalled Windows and everything is working fine, I don't know that you want to 'undo' all the work you've just been through, and 2) Most forum users here have a negative view of McAfee.   There are several good, and free, alternatives available for the download... see my second post (as well as Joe53's comments and link)  in the following thread: http://www.dellcommunity.com/supportforums/board/message?board.id=si_virus&thread.id=59555 I realize your bro-in-law has already paid for a McAfee subscription, and therefore may feel 'cheated' if he can't get his 'money's worth'.   If he really feels that way, I guess you/he can try to pursue McAfee further, but like I said, the consensus here is that it's just not worth it. Message Edited by ky331 on 03-14-2007 10:25 AM

SUEBEE1 · Answer

heres 2 tiny hints. one please dont have mcafee on your computer! if you got a disk for it with the new computer turn it into a coaster. :) and concerning aol there is a new version called aol 9.0VR which stands for vista ready which by its name should work with vista.  ive used aol since 99 and am probably the only person in america who hasnt had a problem with them. although i will say that ive personally tried all versions of aol 9.0 and they have been . i use aol 8.0 plus for broadband and no problems. plus i switched to free aol in september and no more bills. i hope this helps. :)

Buckshaw · Answer

Agreed,     Use the coaster method.   McAfee has so many hidden under the hood problems its terrible.  Do not count on a clean deinstallation either.   It will leave behind a trail of 'anomalies.'

200thhorseman · Answer

Dear All,

Thanks for your advice. You'll be glad to hear that I have given up on McAfee in favour of AVG. The PC is now back with my brother-in-law and everything is running smoothly.

Cheers,

Rob

SUEBEE1 · Answer

good deal. im glad to know everything is working fine now for you. did you get aol straightened out as well? im always glad when my suggestions actually work for someone. :smileyvery-happy:

200thhorseman · Answer

Hi,   Yeah.  I downloaded AOL 9.0VR and everything is tickety now.   BTW did you know that Vista is not compatible with a majority of the USB modems in use?  The cheek of it!   TTFN,   Rob

SUEBEE1 · Answer

from all of the complaints and problems people are having with vista i dont think vista is compatible with anything.:smileyvery-happy:

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