Summary. Symantec Endpoint Security can sometimes become corrupted to the point that it produces error messages yet can’t be uninstalled automatically by Windows. Symantec is aware of this issue.
Removal Instructions. A four page fine-print manual removal procedure document is available on the Symantec website. The instructions include about 139 steps or points that need to be completed in order to remove their software. This includes searching the Windows registry to remove entries relating to Symantec.
Damage Assessment. Depending on the hourly rate paid for computer support, the cost of removal could be $100 or more. For legal reasons, it would be advisable for any retailer selling this product to include a disclaimer with the product indicating that the store is not liable for damages resulting from a corrupted installation.
Alternative Products. Because these kinds of problems are not uncommon for Symantec, McAfee, Trend Micro, and other expensive retail products, it’s difficult to know what product one should use. Fortunately, the best antivirus solution is also free. The AVG Antivirus software is the most popular downloaded antivirus software at Download.com and also the most popular program in general for all categories of Windows software downloads. With over 2.4 million downloads as of November 2009, the product is being used by millions of people. Over 19,000 people have rated the software giving it an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The AVG software was produced by AVG Technologies (formerly Grisoft). A paid version of AVG is also available and offers a few more features than the free product.