Uninstalling Unnecessary pre-loaded programs

Question

I got a new XPS400 running XP Media Center recently and would like to clean up some/most of the pre-loaded software that I don't have any use for, such as the internet services, WildTangent, Quickbooks, etc, without trying to do a "clean install" of the operating system. I see that many of these items appear in the add/remove programs panel. Is there any reason why I shouldn't go ahead and start uninstalling these programs? Any other advice on cleaning up/de-activating such programs and freeing up the hard drive space they take up? (Want to proceed cautiously here, given that Dell has not provided me with any backup or restore CDs other than the operating system one that I insisted on with my order.)

As for one of the items - I did try to uninstall the Quickbooks free trial, but I don't think it worked completely as the icon still appeared on my screen and the files remained on the computer, plus if I click on the icon, it would prompt me for a CD rather than start. I understand others may have had this issue - anyone figure out how to cleanly uninstall this program? Will it mess things up badly if I were to just delete the files?

SR45 · Answer

First, here is the Dell Download site for drivers for your XPS 400 system in case you need them later.

http://support.dell.com/support/downloads/devices.aspx?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs&SystemID=XPS/DIMENSION%20400/9150&os=WW1&osl=EN

There is nothing wrong is un-installing programs from Add/Remove program if you do not want them anymore. However, some programs, such as AOL, or other pre-installed software that you mentioned, are a bear to get completely off the system, and the only real way to do so is a complete reformat and reinstall of windows. Some, like me and others, will go into the registry to clean out the program, but you have to be comfortable with going into the registry or find yourself reinstalling windows.

When you click on Start in the lower left side of the monitor, click on All Programs. Check there as well to see if a program has a uninstall options that you might want to use as well.

Other members may wish to weigh in and give you some more suggestions..... Good luck

beneteau · Answer

I wish Dell would stop preloading AOL, Earthlink, etc. and just include the CD's for those who wish to use them or, at least, give a buyer the choice to have AOL preloaded. I know they won't because of the $$$$$ paid by AOL and others. That's really one of the things that irks me when purchasing a new computer----all the preloaded "garbage".
Wish someone offered a "cleanup" CD that would completely remove AOL. My 2¢.

Windows General

Uninstalling Unnecessary pre-loaded programs

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