HP ProtectTools is a program that manages Smart Card operations, configuration and access on HP computers. The program comes pre-installed on Hewlett Packard computers and runs in the background while the computer is on. However, if your business uses different Smart Card software or if ProtectTools is using too much of your computer resources, you may wish to disable it completely.
Step 1
Click the Start button and select "All Programs." Choose "HP ProtectTools Security Manager" in the program menu.
Step 2
Select "Settings" and uncheck the box to the left of the menu. The green check mark in the box should disappear, which will disable the application.
Step 3
Close the open window. Restart the computer to complete the change.