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How to Uninstall IObit Protected Folder Without Password on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Sometimes, you may forget the password for IObit Protected Folder on your Windows 11 computer. This can make it difficult to uninstall the program normally. However, there are ways to remove the software without the password.

This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, explaining each action clearly. You do not need to be a tech expert to follow along.

We will start with the simplest solutions and gradually move to more advanced methods. By the end, you should be able to uninstall IObit Protected Folder safely.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the removal steps.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Checks

Before you begin uninstalling IObit Protected Folder, make sure to check the following:

  • Backup important files: If you have any files locked by IObit Protected Folder, try to back them up if possible. Uninstalling without the password may lead to losing access to these files.
  • Administrator access: You need to be logged into a Windows 11 account with administrator privileges to uninstall software.
  • Close the program: Ensure that IObit Protected Folder is not running in the background. You can check this via Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and end its processes if needed.

Step 1: Try Uninstalling from Settings

The easiest way to remove any program on Windows 11 is through the Settings app. Here is how:

  1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) and select Settings.
  2. In Settings, go to Apps and then click Installed apps.
  3. Scroll through the list to find IObit Protected Folder.
  4. Click the three dots next to its name, then select Uninstall.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.

Note: If the program asks for a password here, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Use Control Panel to Uninstall

If the Settings app does not work, you can try the traditional Control Panel method:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type control and press Enter to open the Control Panel.
  3. Click on Programs and then Programs and Features.
  4. Look for IObit Protected Folder in the list of installed programs.
  5. Select it and click Uninstall at the top of the window.
  6. Follow the uninstall wizard instructions.

Note: If a password prompt appears here as well, continue to the next steps.

Step 3: End IObit Protected Folder Processes

The software might be preventing uninstallation by running background processes. To stop this:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Look for any processes named IObit Protected Folder or similar.
  3. Select the process and click End task.
  4. Try uninstalling again through Settings or Control Panel.

Stopping the program’s processes prevents it from blocking the uninstall routine.

Step 4: Use IObit Uninstaller (If Installed)

IObit offers a dedicated uninstaller tool that can help remove their products more effectively:

  1. If you have IObit Uninstaller installed, open it.
  2. Find IObit Protected Folder in the list of programs.
  3. Select it and choose Force Uninstall or a similar option.
  4. Follow the tool’s instructions to remove the software.

This method often bypasses password restrictions by removing program files directly.

Step 5: Manually Delete IObit Protected Folder Files

If uninstalling normally is impossible, you can manually delete the program files. Please be careful with this step:

  1. Navigate to the program installation folder, usually C:Program Files (x86)IObit Protected Folder or similar.
  2. Select all files and folders inside this directory and delete them.
  3. Next, press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  4. Navigate to these locations and delete IObit Protected Folder related entries:
    • HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareIObit
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREIObit
  5. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.

Warning: Editing the registry can cause system issues if done incorrectly. Make sure to back up your registry before making changes.

Step 6: Use Third-Party Uninstaller Tools

If manual deletion feels risky, third-party uninstallers like Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller can help remove stubborn programs:

  • Download and install a trusted uninstaller program.
  • Launch it and scan for installed applications.
  • Choose IObit Protected Folder and select Force Remove or similar.
  • Allow the program to clean leftover files and registry entries.

These tools automate many manual steps and reduce the chance of errors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I uninstall IObit Protected Folder without the password?

Yes, by following the steps above, you can remove the software even if you forgot the password. Manual deletion and third-party uninstallers are effective options.

Will uninstalling cause me to lose my protected files?

It depends. If files are locked by the program, uninstalling without unlocking them first may cause loss of access. Always back up important files if possible.

Is it safe to edit the Windows Registry to remove IObit entries?

Editing the registry can be risky if done incorrectly. Always back up the registry before making changes and follow instructions carefully.

Why does IObit Protected Folder ask for a password during uninstall?

The password protects your private data and prevents unauthorized removal of the software. This security measure can complicate uninstallation without the password.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above methods work, consider the following options:

  • Contact IObit Support: Visit the official IObit support page for assistance or password recovery options.
  • System Restore: If you created a restore point before installing the software, you can roll back your system to that point.
  • Reinstall the software: Sometimes reinstalling IObit Protected Folder can reset settings and potentially allow you to uninstall it properly.

Always use official resources and trusted tools to avoid damaging your system.

Conclusion

Uninstalling IObit Protected Folder without the password can be challenging but is achievable with patience and care. Start with simple uninstall methods through Settings or Control Panel, then try ending processes or using dedicated uninstallers.

If these fail, manual removal or third-party tools are effective alternatives. Remember to back up your files and registry before making major changes.

Following these steps will help you safely remove IObit Protected Folder from your Windows 11 PC and regain control over your system.

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