What is getplus(R)_ocx in Adobe Reader? (And How to Remove It)
Question details
The user is asking about the legitimacy of the getplus(R)_ocx entry found in the Windows Add or Remove Programs list after installing Adobe Reader 8.1.
- Product
- Adobe Reader 8.1
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Reviewing installed programs in Windows Settings or Control Panel.
- Observed behavior
- An unfamiliar program named "getplus(R)_ocx" appears in the installed software list, prompting concerns about its necessity and security.
Before modifying or uninstalling system components, ensure you have administrative privileges on your Windows computer and close any open instances of Adobe Reader.
Uninstall getplus(R)_ocx and Replace Obsolete Adobe Reader
Safely remove the legacy update component and completely uninstall the outdated PDF reader to secure your system.
The getplus(R)_ocx component is a legacy download and update manager utilized by older versions of Adobe software, specifically Adobe Reader 8.1. Because Adobe Reader 8.1 is completely obsolete and no longer receives security patches, this background component is unnecessary and simply takes up system resources.
It is highly recommended to completely remove this downloader along with the outdated Adobe Reader version to prevent potential security vulnerabilities.
Press the Windows key, type "Control Panel", and press Enter. Under the "Programs" category, click on "Uninstall a program" to open the list of installed software.
Scroll through your installed applications list until you find "getplus(R)_ocx". Click on it to highlight it, then click the "Uninstall" button at the top of the window. Follow the uninstaller prompts to remove it.
In the same Programs and Features window, locate "Adobe Reader 8.1". Select it, click "Uninstall", and complete the removal process to clear the unsupported software from your PC.
Upgrade to WPS Office for a Modern, Secure PDF Experience
Since Adobe Reader 8.1 is entirely obsolete, it's time for a safer, more capable replacement. WPS Office provides a powerful, built-in PDF toolkit alongside fully compatible Word, Excel, and PowerPoint alternatives. It is lightweight, free to use, and completely secure—freeing your system from outdated bloatware and legacy update managers.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS website and download the free WPS Office installer.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded setup file and follow the on-screen prompts for a quick, bloat-free installation.
- 3. Set as default PDF viewer: Right-click any PDF file, select "Open with", choose WPS Office, and check the box to always use this app to read your PDFs securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is getplus(R)_ocx a virus or malware?
No, getplus(R)_ocx is not inherently malware. It is a legitimate download and update manager created by NOS for older Adobe systems. However, because it is obsolete, it is best practice to remove it to avoid potential security risks.
Can I keep Adobe Reader 8.1 and just remove getplus(R)_ocx?
While you can technically uninstall the downloader separately via the Control Panel, Adobe Reader 8.1 is over a decade old and unsupported. Keeping it installed leaves your system vulnerable to security exploits, so it is strongly advised to uninstall both.
Will removing getplus(R)_ocx affect my current version of Adobe Acrobat?
If you have since updated to a modern version of Adobe Acrobat or Reader (like Acrobat DC), it does not rely on the legacy getplus(R)_ocx component. Removing this specific old entry will not impact modern software versions.
What should I use to open PDFs after uninstalling Adobe Reader 8.1?
You can use any modern PDF reader. Most up-to-date web browsers (like Chrome or Edge) can open PDFs automatically, or you can download a comprehensive suite like WPS Office, which includes a fast, secure, and built-in PDF viewer and editor.
