How to prepare a Windows PC to install McAfee products Perform steps 1 and 2 first, then try to install your McAfee software: Step 1: Make sure that Windows is up to date. Step 2: Uninstall any existing security software. If you still have a problem, perform these next steps. Steps 1 and 2 are all that you typically need to do to prepare your PC for installation of a McAfee product.