There is an antivirus package that exists on most of our machines that needs to be removed. I did not deploy this software and it was not deployed via GPO – it was installed manually by the previous administrator on each machine. So, I do not think I can remove this software now using Group Policy because it was not installed via Group Policy. It does come with an MSI installer though.
I believe that I could still uninstall this software via a startup script though, possibly by first checking to see that certain indicators of the software's existence are present and then by removing the software using an unattended uninstaller batch file.
Is this a safe way to go? Does anyone have any tips or tricks on uninstalling software via startup scripts?
Best Answer
Test it first, obviously, and if it takes "too long," consider another approach.
I've seen a lot of users completely destroy their images when startup or logon scripts are used to install or uninstall large software packages. They get impatient, reboot, and get their system into a state where it can't complete the install/uninstall, so it won't startup or let them log in, and then toss the problem they just created at IT.
At the very least, you should warn users that it's coming, and tell them to leave the computer alone while it's starting up. Might not do any good, depending on your users, but at least you're covering your ass if you do.