Cannot uninstall instant messenger [AIM]

Has this been brought up before? couldn't see it anywhere. I think that I need to learn how to use the search function.

Anyway, I had some spyware trouble on the computer and think I ended up erasing an aol instant messenger supporting file. Now I can't seem to start my AIM, I can't exit, it won't start and I can't uninstall from the control panel (add or remove programs).

I tried to re-install, but it won't complete saying that it detects an instance and that it has to be turned off before I can install. I do not, repeat, DO NOT, want the newest version aim triton. All of the add-ons are more intrusive and I just don't want it. I have found the version I want but can't get rid of the version I have.

 

Did you try restoring to a point previous to your problem then removing the spyware correctly?

 

If System Restore does you no good, get Regcleaner. Remove all AOL and Gtek software entries, delete the program folders, clean the registry, reboot and install AIM.

 

Not sure really how to use system restore. I'm not that familiar with it.

 

but it didn't work.

 

ggreg, are you using Netscape as your browser? AIM is a proprietary "integrated" version of AOL messenger in Netscape browser. Has been too many years since I used Netscape / AIM products. If you are, may want to have post moved to Netscape/Mozilla forum. If memory serves me correct, it is difficult/not practical to remove AIM .. but best left for the experts to answer. If your preference is to move away from AIM / AOL current builds and you enjoy Netscape type browser (browser/email suite), consider giving SeaMonkey a trial run.

 

Thank you for your response here, but I will have to say that I don't use Netscape. Never really liked it that much. I used to use it when I was in the military quite a ways back in time, but when they switch over to using internet explorer I fell in love with it.

The main problem I was faced with was that the AIM Uninstaller wasn't working. It would freeze up in the process of starting. It's not very pratical trying to uninstall this program, but I only wanted to get rid of the newer program and reinstall an earlier program so that all that I'll get is the instant messenger capabilities with out all of the add-ons.

I don't like a lot of renewed softwares when the old ones worked just fine.

 

Sorry ggreg, my mistake, I was thinking of NIM (integrated AIM messenger) in Netscape. Sorry for the confusion.

 

Dude, no problem man. I really do appreciate the reply and the desire to help. I don't really get that that often. When looking for help I usually come across people with seflish motives or absolutely no desire to even consider helping someone.

I have downloaded AIM Triton anyway. It looks like I'm stuck with it until I am forced to format my hard drive again or end up buying a new "uncorrupted" computer/harddrive. I will know better then and only download the things I like to use.

AIM Triton has too many bells and whistles and so much unnecessary programing for me, but hey maybe it works well for someone else. Personally, I was happy with AIM 5.5. All the things that AIM Triton claims to have as new I already had the capability to perform. Nothing new to me, just more add-ons I don't need. MOre stuff to shuffle through when using the program, and not to mention I just don't like the way it looks! HA HA! Anyway, thanks so much. I just hope it doesn't end up giving me any problems operating in the near future.

 

cannot uninstall aol instant messenger

Hey gregg, i have a similar problem.My aim was working fine untill i decided to upgrade it along with middleman. when i tried signing on aim after the upgrade was complete it would not let me. I tried to unistall aim but it keeps saying that aim is still running. I tried some the suggestions that were posted but non helped. Are there any other suggestions?

 

Charmz,
to tell you the truth I haven't fully fixed my problem, but I'll tell you what I did. I mean, I've got it somewhat working.

I found a file (that I no longer have on my system) that helped to un install not all, but the most of the operating files for the instant messenger which would at least allow me to update the newest version (aol triton).

I accessed the file directly through the program files and found it in the aol file folder. This was all I could do to get it to work, I stil have several "left over" files from the previous version of instant messenger stuck on my computer, but at least the new version is working fine.