Mac Tutorials
How to Uninstall Apps from Your Mac: A Comprehensive Guide
In today’s digital age, proper digital management is crucial. One activity that’s often overlooked is uninstalling apps from your Mac. Not only does it help keep your computer organized, but it also frees up valuable storage space. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to uninstall those pesky, unused apps from your Mac.
Uninstalling Apps by Dragging to Trash
The most straightforward way to uninstall an app from your Mac is to simply drag the app’s icon from the Applications folder 📂 all the way to your Trash bin 🗑️. After it is in the Trash, it’s crucial to remember to empty the Trash bin to ensure that all of the app’s components are removed and your space is freed up.
Using Clean My Mac X to Uninstall Apps
The application Clean My Mac X is another effective way to uninstall apps from your Mac. This app features an uninstaller tool, which helps to remove any program completely, leaving no leftover files. This method is preferable as the regular deletion process might leave some residual files on your computer.
Native Uninstaller Method
The third method to uninstall apps is through a native uninstaller, which some applications provide. For instance, Adobe’s Creative Cloud suite lets you install and uninstall its applications through their own uninstaller. Not only does this ensure a more thorough removal, but it also leaves no leftover files, making it an excellent alternative to the first method.
Conclusion: 🏁
In conclusion, understanding how to effectively uninstall apps from your Mac is essential in maintaining a clean and well-organized system 🖥️. Whether you choose to drag the app to the Trash bin 🗑️, use the Clean My Mac X tool, or employ a native uninstaller, it all boils down to what works best for you. Remember, a clutter-free Mac is a happy Mac! 😊
FAQ
How do I uninstall apps from my Mac?
Go to the Applications folder via Finder, select the app you want to uninstall, then drag it to the Trash Bin. Don’t forget to empty the Trash Bin afterwards for complete uninstallation.
Which versions of Mac OS support the uninstallation process above?
This process is supported by all versions of Mac OS.
Can I restore an app after uninstalling it?
If the app was downloaded from the App Store, you can reinstall it from there. If the app was downloaded from the Internet, you need to download it again.
How can I find the Applications folder?
Navigate to the Finder, here under ‘Favorites,’ you’ll find ‘Applications.’
Can I uninstall built-in apps?
Some built-in apps cannot be uninstalled as they are essential to your system’s functionality.
How to uninstall apps that won’t delete on my Mac?
For such hard cases, use an uninstaller software like AppCleaner which can help remove stubborn apps.
I deleted an app but it’s still there, why is this happening?
The app may be running in the background. Ensure the app is fully closed, then try uninstalling it again.
Do I need administrative privileges to uninstall apps?
Most apps can be uninstalled without requiring admin rights. However, some may require these permissions.
What are the alternatives to uninstalling apps?
You could simply move apps that you don’t often use to a different folder to keep your Applications folder decluttered.
Does uninstalling an app remove all its files?
Not always. Some apps leave behind ‘Application Support’ files that you can manually delete from the Library folder.
How much space can I free up by uninstalling an app on my Mac?
The space you can free up varies from app to app. You can see the size of an app by going to ‘Applications’ in ‘System Information.’
Why is there not an ‘Uninstall’ option when I right-click an app?
Uninstallation on Macs is typically done by moving apps to the Trash rather than through an ‘Uninstall’ button.
Can I quickly uninstall multiple apps?
Unfortunately, Mac OS doesn’t support batch uninstallations. Though, apps like CleanMyMac X may offer this feature.
Can keychain information be removed when I uninstall an app?
Uninstalling an app won’t remove its keychain information. You have to manually remove this.
Is it okay to disable an app instead of uninstalling it?
Yes, if you don’t want to lose your settings and data for that app. You can disable the app until you need it again.
How do I completely uninstall an application on my Mac, without leaving any hidden files?
Third-party software such as AppCleaner can help in identifying and removing hidden files related to the applications being uninstalled.
Will uninstalling an app also delete its data?
Yes, when you uninstall an app, it will usually delete its data, unless the data is stored separately in a database or online.
Do I need to restart my Mac after uninstalling an application?
You are not required to restart your Mac unless the application you uninstalled prompts you to.
What if I can’t find the application in the Applications folder?
It’s possible the application may not be installed correctly or it may not be a typical application that resides in the Applications folder. Try searching for it in Spotlight.
Can I uninstall applications bought from the App Store?
Yes, applications bought from the App Store can be uninstalled just like other apps, and you can reinstall them from the App Store anytime.
Does uninstalling an app cancel any subscriptions I have with the app?
No, uninstalling an app will not automatically cancel any in-app subscriptions you may have. You need to cancel these from your Apple account.
Can I delete the installer after installing an app?
Yes, once the installation process is complete, you can delete the installer package.
Can I uninstall apps purchased from the developer’s website?
Yes, you can uninstall these apps just like ones from the App Store. However, you may need to download them again from their website if you need to reinstall.
Are there any risks involved when uninstalling an app?
Typically no, but some apps may be required for system functions or other apps to operate correctly. It’s always good to make sure what you’re uninstalling is safe to remove.
What happens to the files created with the app after uninstallation?
Usually, files created with an app are not affected when the app is uninstalled. They will remain on your system.
Can I reinstall an app after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can download the app again from the App Store or the developer’s website, and then reinstall it.
What to do if the icon of the app remains after uninstallation?
Sometimes, the app icons might not disappear immediately. In such cases, restarting the Mac can help.
How to uninstall apps that are not from the App Store?
These apps can be uninstalled just like any other app: by doing to Applications in the Finder, dragging the app to the Trash, and then emptying the Trash.
Why can’t I delete some apps?
Some apps are necessary for the proper functioning of your Mac, and therefore cannot be deleted.
What is the ‘Library’ folder you mentioned earlier?
It’s a folder where applications store their settings and data. You can find it in your home folder, but it’s hidden by default since you usually should not need to access it.