Menda
Win 10 / 11 · Security
Check for remote-access software you didn't install
If a stranger talked you into installing something so they could 'help', it may still be on the PC and able to connect again. Find it, remove it, and check Windows' own remote settings are off.
- DifficultyMedium
- Time15 min
- RiskMedium
- ReversibleYes
- PlatformWin 10 / 11
- Updated
What that means
Medium risk. This fix changes system settings, services, drivers, startup items or security features — reversible, but taking it back takes some effort or knowledge, and it may temporarily affect stability. This change is reversible — you can return to the previous state without professional help or data loss.
Steps
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If someone is connected right now, cut the connection
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Look through your installed apps
Windows 11
Windows 10
You should see: The program gone from the list once its uninstaller finishes.
Careful: Leave alone any remote tool your employer, or someone you know and asked, set up for you. Check with them rather than removing it.
Why?
These are genuine products that support teams use every day. The program is not the problem; who is at the other end of it is. Quick Assist is part of Windows, so finding it on the PC is normal.
Also see: Uninstall the apps you never use
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Check for one that runs without being installed
Why?
Some can run straight from the download, so they may never appear in the installed apps list.
Also see: Disable startup bloat
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Check Windows' own remote settings are off
You should see: Remote Desktop showing Off, and the Remote Assistance box empty.
Why?
Being connected to by Remote Desktop needs Windows Pro, so on Windows Home there may be nothing to switch off. Quick Assist, which is also built in, is started with a one-time code for each session, and either person can end it by choosing Leave.
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Restart, check again, then scan
How to verify the fix
Installed apps lists no remote-control program you did not choose, Remote Desktop is Off, 'Allow Remote Assistance connections to this computer' is unticked, and nothing remote-related comes back after a restart.
If this didn't fix it
Get professional help if a remote-access program reinstalls itself, if it will not uninstall, or if a stranger was connected and you cannot be sure what they did. Microsoft's advice for a PC a scammer had remote access to is to reset it; when in doubt that is the safest answer. Back up your own files first.
Next stop: the related fixes below, or start a guided diagnosis.