I noticed an unfamiliar RAV Network Protection icon beside the Wi‑Fi indicator on my Windows taskbar. I uninstalled it because I assumed it was malware, but it appeared again the next day. I've read that it may not be malicious, although it could be bundled with another application. What exactly does RAV Network Protection do, what software commonly installs it, and what steps can I take to uninstall it completely and prevent it from returning?
2 Answers
RAV Network Protection, sometimes listed as RAV Endpoint Protection and made by ReasonLabs, is antivirus and network-security software. It can monitor web traffic, block suspicious sites, and help protect network connections. It is generally considered legitimate, but it is often bundled with other installers—torrent clients are a common example—so it may have been installed without you noticing the optional offer.
First check Windows Settings > Apps > Installed apps, or Control Panel > Programs and Features, and uninstall RAV Endpoint Protection or any related ReasonLabs entry. If it keeps coming back, review recently installed programs and reinstallers, since the original bundled application may be putting it back. A reputable third-party uninstaller such as Revo can also help remove leftover components. It’s still a good idea to run a malware scan if you’re unsure what else was installed.
I definitely don’t remember installing it. Could it have come bundled with another program?