How to remove NetGuard from computers
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of application is NetGuard?
NetGuard is promoted as a website reputation checker that allows users to check the safety of web pages and detect potentially malicious ones. However, NetGuard may be distributed through unreliable installers, so we have classified it as a potentially unwanted application.
NetGuard potentially unwanted application overview
The risks related to NetGuard are not guaranteed but could occur depending on its distribution method. If downloaded from untrustworthy sources, the program may expose users to certain risks. In some cases, unofficial installers may include unwanted software such as adware, browser hijackers, or malware alongside NetGuard.
These additional programs can lead to problems like poor user experience, unexpected redirects, data theft, or even unauthorized access to your system. Moreover, installing NetGuard could result in performance slowdowns and issues like crashes, as some installers suggest the program may consume all system resources.
Also, if obtained through unreliable sources, the program could harvest personal data, such as browsing history and other browsing-related information, system details, IP addresses, etc. This information could be misused in certain ways. For instance, it may be sold to third parties.
Another concern is that NetGuard, if bundled with other programs, might create persistent notifications or system alerts, which could be annoying or misleading. These messages may try to convince users to upgrade or install additional software, potentially leading to more unwanted applications on their system.
Users should only download software from trusted, legitimate sources and use official installers to avoid such risks.
| Name | NetGuard unwanted program |
| Threat Type | Potentially unwanted program |
| Functionality | Web browser |
| Detection Names (Installer) | N/A (VirusTotal) |
| Detection Names (Application) | N/A (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | Slow performance, frequent pop-up ads, unexpected redirects to unfamiliar websites, and the presence of unfamiliar programs or toolbars. |
| Distribution Methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), fake updates, questionable websites. |
| Damage | Slow computer performance, potential privacy and security issues. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while NetGuard itself may not present direct risks, downloading it from untrustworthy sources can lead to serious security and privacy issues. Furthermore, the program’s ability to consume all system resources could cause computer slowdowns or even system instability.
More examples of apps classified as unwanted are PrivacyShield, Cuiall Apps, and Keep Awake.
How did potentially unwanted applications install on my computer?
Many users unintentionally install suspicious applications through free or questionable software. This happens when users overlook installation options like "Advanced" or "Custom" settings or do not untick pre-selected checkboxes. This distribution method is known as bundling.
These unwanted apps can also be delivered through deceptive advertisements, fake software updates, misleading links, pop-ups, or similar content on unreliable websites, unofficial app stores, P2P networks, third-party downloaders, and other dubious channels.
How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?
Download apps and files from official sources or trusted app stores. When installing software, carefully check the settings (like “Custom” or “Advanced”) to identify and uncheck any unwanted offers/applications. Avoid interacting with ads, pop-ups, or suspicious links on unreliable websites.
Do not allow questionable websites to show notifications, and make sure your system and apps are regularly updated. Additionally, run regular scans with dependable security software. If your computer is already infected with rogue apps, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate them.
Example of NetGuard's inspection results after running a scan:
Installation setup of NetGuard application:
Website promoting NetGuard application:
Instant automatic malware removal:
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Quick menu:
- What is NetGuard?
- STEP 1. Uninstall deceptive applications using Control Panel.
- STEP 2. Remove rogue extensions from Google Chrome.
- STEP 3. Remove potentially unwanted plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox.
- STEP 4. Remove rogue extensions from Safari.
- STEP 5. Remove rogue plug-ins from Microsoft Edge.
Removal of potentially unwanted applications:
Windows 11 users:
Right-click on the Start icon, select Apps and Features. In the opened window search for the application you want to uninstall, after locating it, click on the three vertical dots and select Uninstall.
Windows 10 users:
Right-click in the lower left corner of the screen, in the Quick Access Menu select Control Panel. In the opened window choose Programs and Features.
Windows 7 users:
Click Start (Windows Logo at the bottom left corner of your desktop), choose Control Panel. Locate Programs and click Uninstall a program.
macOS (OSX) users:
Click Finder, in the opened screen select Applications. Drag the app from the Applications folder to the Trash (located in your Dock), then right click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.
In the uninstall programs window, look for suspicious applications, select these entries and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".
After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.
Remove rogue extensions from Internet browsers:
At time of research, NetGuard did not install any unwanted browser extensions, however, some unwanted applications can be installed together with adware and browser hijackers. If you experience unwanted ads or redirects when browsing the Internet, continue with the removal guide below.
Video showing how to remove potentially unwanted browser add-ons:
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Click the Chrome menu icon 
(at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "Extensions" and click "Manage Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the netguard unwanted program, reset your Google Chrome browser settings. Click the Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome) and select Settings. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen. Click the Advanced… link.
After scrolling to the bottom of the screen, click the Reset (Restore settings to their original defaults) button.
In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Google Chrome settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
Remove malicious plugins from Mozilla Firefox:
Click the Firefox menu 
(at the top right corner of the main window), select "Add-ons and themes". Click "Extensions", in the opened window locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".
Optional method:
Computer users who have problems with netguard unwanted program removal can reset their Mozilla Firefox settings.
Open Mozilla Firefox, at the top right corner of the main window, click the Firefox menu, in the opened menu, click Help.
Select Troubleshooting Information.
In the opened window, click the Refresh Firefox button.
In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Mozilla Firefox settings to default by clicking the Refresh Firefox button.
Remove malicious extensions from Safari:
Make sure your Safari browser is active, click Safari menu, and select Preferences....
In the opened window click Extensions, locate any recently installed suspicious extension, select it and click Uninstall.
Optional method:
Make sure your Safari browser is active and click on Safari menu. From the drop down menu select Clear History and Website Data...
In the opened window select all history and click the Clear History button.
Remove malicious extensions from Microsoft Edge:
Click the Edge menu icon 
(at the upper-right corner of Microsoft Edge), select "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and click "Remove" below their names.
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the netguard unwanted program, reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings. Click the Edge menu icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge) and select Settings.
In the opened settings menu select Reset settings.
Select Restore settings to their default values. In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Microsoft Edge settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
- If this did not help, follow these alternative instructions explaining how to reset the Microsoft Edge browser.
Summary:
Commonly, adware or potentially unwanted applications infiltrate Internet browsers through free software downloads. Note that the safest source for downloading free software is via developers' websites only. To avoid installation of adware, be very attentive when downloading and installing free software. When installing previously-downloaded free programs, choose the custom or advanced installation options – this step will reveal any potentially unwanted applications listed for installation together with your chosen free program.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of an unwanted application?
Unwanted applications are usually designed to generate revenue by displaying intrusive ads, collecting user data, or redirecting users to various websites. In some cases, they may also serve more harmful purposes.
Is NetGuard unwanted application legal?
Typically, unwanted applications are technically legal, as their End User License Agreements (EULA) typically disclose their potential behavior to users.
Is having NetGuard installed on my computer dangerous?
Having NetGuard installed on your computer is not inherently dangerous, but it depends on how it was obtained. If downloaded from unreliable or unofficial sources, it could bring security and privacy risks.
Will Combo Cleaner help me remove NetGuard unwanted application?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will conduct a thorough scan of your computer and remove all malicious or unwanted applications. While manual removal might not always be entirely effective due to hidden file remnants, Combo Cleaner ensures complete removal of unwanted apps by eliminating them entirely from your system.
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