Ultimate Guide to Removing the OMEN App and Preventing Its Reinstallation on Windows

Step 1: Check for Automatic Updates

Ensure no automatic updates are set to reinstall the app.

1. Disable Automatic Updates using HP Support Assistant:
   • Launch HP Support Assistant (if available).
   • Navigate to Settings or Preferences.
   • Turn off automatic updates for HP software and drivers.
2. Verify Windows Update Settings:
   • Press Windows + I to access Settings.
   • Select Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • Under Advanced Options, temporarily disable automatic updates.

Step 2: Uninstall the OMEN App

Follow these steps to remove the app thoroughly:

1. Press Windows + R, input appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter to access Programs and Features.
2. Follow the instructions to remove the OMEN app.
3. Check and delete any remaining OMEN-related files in these directories:
   • C:\Program Files\OMEN
   • C:\Program Files (x86)\OMEN
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\OMEN
   • C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming\OMEN
4. Enable “Show Hidden Files” in File Explorer to access hidden folders like AppData.
5. Registry Cleanup (Optional):

   For advanced users, clearing registry entries is recommended but risky. Perform the following:

   1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
   2. Examine HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE and HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE for any entries related to OMEN.

   Proceed with caution to avoid system instability.

Step 3: Disable HP Scheduled Tasks

Prevent tasks from reinstalling the app by disabling scheduled tasks:

1. Press Windows + S, search for Task Scheduler, and open it.
2. In the left pane, browse to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows.
3. Identify any tasks linked to HP, OMEN, or Support Assistant.
4. Right-click each task and select Disable.

Step 4: Block Internet Access for the App

This step halts the app from reinstalling via internet access.

1. Press Windows + S, search for Windows Defender Firewall, and launch it.
2. Click on Advanced Settings on the sidebar.
3. In the new window, select Outbound Rules > New Rule.
4. Choose Program and click Next.
5. Finalize the rule creation by selecting Block the connection.

Step 5: Utilize Third-Party Uninstaller Tools

If in-built uninstallers fall short, consider third-party options for robust removal:

Tools such as Revo Uninstaller or IObit Uninstaller can effectively remove leftover files and registry entries, streamlining the cleaning process.

Step 6: Temporarily Disable HP Services

This final step helps prevent the app from reinstalling itself:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Search for services related to names like HP Service, HP Software Framework, or HP Support Solutions.
3. Right-click each service and choose Properties.
4. Modify the Startup Type to Disabled and ensure the service is halted.

What if the OMEN app keeps reinstalling even after I uninstall it?

Is it safe to edit the Windows Registry?