Removing Symantec with unknown PW

Newbee here.

I want to upgrade my Symantec Antivirus which is out of date. Because it is an old corporate version left on the PC when I got it I need to install a new version. First requirement is to remove any existing versions. The MS removal tool wants a Password which I don't know and have been unable to get. I tried the Symantec removal tool but it also wants a manual removal which means the password is still needed. Will any of the program removal tools out there bypass the need for a password or would it be possible to recover the password using one of the many password recovery tools out there? Since this PC was run on a network I wonder if the password is even stored locally.

Thanks for the help

 

Hi rramjet, I would think your best bet would be to save any info you need then use Delpart to clear the HDD and then format and start again. This assumes you have the CD with OS to reinstall. Then you can Download and install FREE Antivirus of your choice. My experiences with Symantec AV & NIS have been that they become Resource Hogs and slow the comp down where 5 minutes was start up time. The reason I suggest this is if you cannot access the Password you won't be able to do anything. A moderator may have the ready knowledge but this is what I would do. Neil.

 

You may find some relief by installing SIW and seeing what it may offer under the header "secrets" but I'm not sure about the specifics of Symantecs own password practices. I'm also sure that you are aware one of the BBS rules is that no password help is offered. I only mention SIW because its author now works for Microsoft and I believe they now also own the intellectual property rights to SIW, a widely available program.

There are other "tools" out there but they can't be discussed on this board and no, don't send me a PM asking for additional assistance. I'm trying to be as helpful as possible without circumventing any rules.



edit: afterthought - I think Neil makes a good point above.