McAfee updates

[Guest]

New computer with Vista and McAfee preinstalled. Can't download McAfee
updates. Click on update and nothing happens. Trying to determine if this
is a Vista problem or a McAfee problem. Have spent about 8 hours either on
the phone or with online chat with both Gateway and McAfee trying to resolve
the problem. Have uninstalled and reinstalled. Because can't update, can't
register the problem either so McAfee doesn't have proof of what is on my
computer, thus unable to reinstall from the internet. Suggestions.

 

[R. McCarty]

What an unfortunate situation. Very common with both McAfee and it's
twin, Symantec. New computer and you're subjected to this never ending
problem of getting software to work. Unless you really want to use the
trial version, I'd recommend removing McAfee ( not easy ) and get a
product that "Just Works". Personally, I use and recommend NOD32
or if you prefer a free Anti-Virus then maybe AVG Free or Avast.

All new PCs come loaded with subsidized 3rd-Party applications. In
most cases the vendors pay to have their software included. You'll find
trials, demos and all sorts of Media players, Picture organizers, etc....
Best thing to do on a new PC is go through the "Programs" applet in
Control Panel and uninstall things you do not want or intend to use.
You buy a new PC and out of the box it comes with all sorts of Fluff &
junk that impacts the computer's performance. I jokingly call removing
all this add-on crap a process called "De-Dell-ifying", but it applies to
just about every brand.

 

[Guest]

If it were a trial iI would do that, but it is a 36 month deal worth about
$100 and unless Gateway wants to refund me that amount (ha ha), I am inclined
to make an effort to get it to work.

 

[R. McCarty]

Understood, I'd capture your license data and completely uninstall
McAfee and then go to their website and get the latest version and
do a clean install ( taking the Custom or Advanced ) option. It's
been a while since I had to work with McAfee but I seem to remember
the last time I had to untangle a McAfee setup that licensed/registered
users can get the full installer package from their web site.