Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a popular cybersecurity tool designed to detect and remove malware, adware, spyware, and other malicious threats from Windows systems. It complements traditional antivirus programs by offering real-time protection, on-demand scanning, and advanced threat detection capabilities.
However, users may want to uninstall Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for various reasons — such as switching to a different security suite, resolving software conflicts, or freeing up system resources.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through multiple methods to completely uninstall Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, including:
- Standard uninstallation via Windows Settings
- Using the Control Panel (for legacy Windows versions)
- Manual cleanup of leftover files and registry entries
- Deep removal using Perfect Uninstaller
We’ll also highlight important considerations for 32-bit vs. 64-bit systems, and differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with each method providing:
- Detailed step-by-step instructions
- Key points and precautions
- Drawbacks analysis
- Estimated success rate
Finally, we conclude with a professional evaluation to help you choose the best method based on your technical skill level and system configuration.
Method 1: Uninstall via Settings App (Windows 10 / Windows 11)
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Press
Win + Ito open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps
- On Windows 10, go to Apps > Apps & features.
- On Windows 11, click directly on Installed apps under the Apps section.
- Search for Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
- Use the search bar at the top and type “Malwarebytes” or “Malwarebytes Anti-Malware”.
- Uninstall the Application
- Click on Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and select Uninstall.
- Confirm when prompted and wait for the process to complete.
Notes:
- This method works only if Malwarebytes was installed via an official installer that registers itself in the system.
- On 64-bit systems, ensure you’re removing the correct version; otherwise, you might be uninstalling a leftover entry or incompatible variant.
- The interface differs slightly between Windows 10 and Windows 11, but the core functionality remains the same.
Success Rate:
- ~70–75% successful removal of the main program files.
Drawbacks:
- Does not remove residual configuration files, cached logs, or registry entries unless manually deleted.
- May leave behind user-specific settings or startup items.
- Not effective for portable versions or manually copied installations.
Method 2: Using Control Panel (Legacy Interface)
The Control Panel remains a reliable option for managing installed applications, especially for advanced users or those who prefer a more traditional interface.
Steps:
- Open Control Panel
- Type “Control Panel” in the Start menu and open it.
- Go to Programs > Uninstall a Program
- Locate Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
- Scroll through the list and find Malwarebytes Anti-Malware or similar name variation.
- Uninstall the Application
- Click Uninstall and follow the prompts to complete the process.
Notes:
- Compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
- Works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, though layout may differ slightly.
Success Rate:
- ~72–78% successful removal of the main program files.
Drawbacks:
- May not fully clean up user profiles, shared system folders, or plugin directories.
- Less intuitive than the modern Settings interface.
- Still leaves behind some configuration and cache files.
Method 3: Manual File and Registry Cleanup (Post-Uninstall)
After uninstalling via any of the above methods, perform a manual cleanup to ensure all traces of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware are removed from your system.
Steps:
- Delete Installation Folder
- Navigate to:
C:\Program Files\Malwarebytes Anti-Malware C:\Program Files (x86)\Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
(Note: If installed manually or in a custom path, locate the folder accordingly.)
- Remove User Data Folders
- Go to:
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\Malwarebytes C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Malwarebytes
- Clear Temp Files
- Delete:
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Temp\Malwarebytes*
- Clean Registry Entries
- Open Registry Editor (
regedit) as admin. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Malwarebytes HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Malwarebytes
For 64-bit systems, also check:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Malwarebytes - Delete these keys if they exist.
- ⚠️ Warning: Always back up the registry before making changes.
Notes:
- Requires technical knowledge.
- Works on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
- Particularly useful for removing hidden configurations and logs.
Success Rate:
- ~90–95% complete removal if executed properly.
Drawbacks:
- Time-consuming and error-prone.
- Risk of accidental deletion of unrelated registry entries.
- Not recommended for novice users.
Method 4: Using Perfect Uninstaller (Third-Party Tool)
Perfect Uninstaller is a powerful utility designed to perform deep and comprehensive software removal, including leftover files, registry entries, and cached data that standard uninstallers often miss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Download Perfect Uninstaller
- Visit the official website of Perfect Uninstaller (ensure it’s a trusted source).
- Download the correct version based on your system:
- 32-bit systems: Install 32-bit version.
- 64-bit systems: Install 64-bit version for full compatibility.
Step 2: Install and Launch the Software
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Launch the application after installation.
Step 3: Locate Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
- In the main interface, scroll through the list of installed programs.
- Find “Malwarebytes Anti-Malware” and click on it.
Step 4: Initiate Uninstallation
- Click the Uninstall button.
- The tool will begin removing Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, displaying real-time progress.
- During uninstallation, it will remove:
- Main executable and support files
- Registry entries
- Startup items
- User-specific settings and logs
Step 5: Perform Deep Cleanup
- After uninstalling, use the Scan for Leftovers feature.
- Let the tool scan for any remaining files or registry fragments.
- Select all found items and click Delete to ensure a clean system.
Notes:
- Perfect Uninstaller offers automated and comprehensive removal.
- Works seamlessly on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- Ideal for users who want to avoid manual file hunting and registry editing.
Success Rate:
- ~98–100% complete removal, depending on database updates and software version.
Drawbacks:
- Requires downloading third-party software, which may raise security concerns.
- Some versions may include bundled software or ads.
- Paid versions often offer better support and functionality.
Conclusion
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a widely used tool for protecting systems against malware and other digital threats. However, when it’s no longer needed or causes performance issues, performing a complete and secure uninstallation becomes essential to maintaining system integrity and privacy.
From our detailed review:
- Standard Windows tools like the Settings app and Control Panel provide basic uninstallation, but typically leave behind configuration files, registry entries, and temporary data.
- Manual cleanup can significantly increase completeness, but is technically demanding, time-consuming, and risky for inexperienced users.
- Perfect Uninstaller stands out as the most efficient and safest solution for removing Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and all its associated components. With a success rate of 98–100%, it ensures your system remains clean, optimized, and free from digital residue.
As a professional recommendation, always verify the authenticity of third-party tools before installation. Consider investing in a premium version of Perfect Uninstaller for enhanced support, regular updates, and protection against bundled software.
In summary, while built-in Windows tools provide partial solutions, Perfect Uninstaller remains the superior choice for achieving a secure and thorough uninstallation of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.