How to Delete an App on macOS: The Definitive Guide
Deleting applications on macOS might seem straightforward, but digging deeper reveals nuances that can optimize your system and prevent lingering files. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough and answers frequently asked questions to ensure you master the art of macOS app removal.
The Quick Answer: How to Delete an App
The simplest way to delete an app on macOS is by using the Finder. Here’s the process:
- Locate the Application: Open the Finder and navigate to the “Applications” folder. You can access this directly from the Finder’s sidebar or by using the keyboard shortcut Shift + Command + A.
- Drag to Trash: Find the app you want to delete. Click and drag the application icon to the Trash icon in the Dock. Alternatively, you can right-click (or Control-click) on the application icon and select “Move to Trash” from the contextual menu.
- Empty the Trash: To permanently delete the application and free up space, right-click on the Trash icon in the Dock and select “Empty Trash.” Be absolutely sure you want to delete everything in the trash, as this action is irreversible.
That’s the basic method. However, this often leaves behind residual files. Keep reading to learn how to properly remove all associated files.
Deeper Dive: Completely Removing Applications
While dragging an app to the Trash removes the main application file, macOS applications often create supporting files and folders scattered throughout your system. These can include preferences, caches, and support files that consume disk space and potentially impact performance. Here’s how to hunt down and eliminate these remnants for a truly clean uninstall:
Using Launchpad
For apps downloaded from the Mac App Store, Launchpad offers a convenient deletion method.
- Open Launchpad: Click the Launchpad icon in your Dock or use the keyboard shortcut F4.
- Locate the App: Find the app you want to delete.
- Enter Jiggle Mode: Click and hold on the app icon until all the icons start to jiggle (similar to iOS).
- Delete (If Available): If the app was downloaded from the App Store, a small “X” will appear in the upper-left corner of the icon. Click the “X” to delete the app.
- Confirm Deletion: You will be prompted to confirm the deletion. Click “Delete” to proceed.
Not all apps listed in Launchpad will have an “X” – this method only works for apps installed from the App Store.
Utilizing Dedicated Uninstallers
Some applications, particularly more complex ones like Adobe Creative Suite or Microsoft Office, come with their own dedicated uninstallers. These uninstallers are designed to remove all associated files and folders, ensuring a complete removal.
- Check the Application Folder: Look for an uninstaller application within the application’s folder in the “Applications” folder. Names may vary (e.g., “Uninstall [App Name],” “Remove [App Name]”).
- Follow the Instructions: Run the uninstaller and follow the on-screen instructions to remove the application.
Manually Searching for and Deleting Residual Files
This method is more advanced and requires caution, but it’s sometimes necessary to completely remove all traces of an application.
Identify Potential File Locations: Common locations for application support files include:
~/Library/Application Support/(User Library)/Library/Application Support/(System Library)~/Library/Preferences//Library/Preferences/~/Library/Caches//Library/Caches/
Note: The tilde
~represents your home directory. The Library folder is hidden by default. To access it, open Finder, click “Go” in the menu bar, and hold down the Option key. The “Library” folder will appear in the menu.Search for Related Files: In each of these locations, search for folders or files with the application’s name or the developer’s name.
Move to Trash: Carefully move any related files or folders to the Trash.
Empty the Trash: Empty the Trash to permanently delete the files.
Important: Be extremely careful when deleting files from the Library folders. Deleting the wrong files can cause system instability or application malfunctions. If you’re unsure, it’s best to leave the file alone.
Using Third-Party Uninstaller Software
Several third-party uninstaller applications are available for macOS that automate the process of finding and removing application-related files. These tools can be very effective and save you time and effort. Popular options include:
- AppCleaner: A free and simple option that effectively scans for related files.
- CleanMyMac X: A more comprehensive suite that includes an uninstaller along with other system optimization tools.
- AppZapper: Another popular uninstaller known for its thoroughness.
These tools generally work by scanning your system for files associated with the application you want to remove and then providing a list of those files for you to review before deleting them.
FAQs: Mastering macOS App Deletion
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about deleting apps on macOS, providing valuable information to help you optimize your system and troubleshoot potential issues.
1. Why can’t I delete some applications?
Some applications are essential to the operating system and cannot be deleted. These are typically system-level apps. Additionally, an application might be running, or you might not have the necessary permissions to delete it. Ensure the app is closed and that you are logged in with an administrator account. You may need to unlock the padlock icon in System Preferences > Security & Privacy to make changes.
2. How do I delete an application if it says it’s “in use”?
First, try quitting the application normally by selecting “Quit” from the application’s menu bar or using the keyboard shortcut Command + Q. If the application is unresponsive, you can force quit it. Press Command + Option + Esc to open the Force Quit Applications window. Select the application and click “Force Quit.” Once the application is closed, you should be able to delete it.
3. How do I delete an app from the Dock?
Deleting an app from the Dock simply removes the shortcut; it does not uninstall the application itself. To remove an app from the Dock, right-click (or Control-click) on the app’s icon and select “Options” > “Remove from Dock.”
4. How do I delete an app I downloaded from outside the Mac App Store?
The methods described above apply to apps from any source. The most effective method often involves checking for a dedicated uninstaller or using a third-party uninstaller application.
5. What are “.DMG” files, and how do they relate to deleting apps?
A .DMG file is a disk image file that contains the application and sometimes instructions. You typically double-click the .DMG file to mount it as a virtual disk. You then drag the application from the mounted disk to your Applications folder. Once the application is installed, you can eject the mounted disk image by dragging it to the Trash (which turns into an eject icon). The .DMG file itself can then be deleted from your Downloads folder or wherever you saved it. It is not required for the application to function once installed.
6. What are preference files and why should I delete them?
Preference files (often with the extension “.plist”) store the settings and configurations for an application. Deleting these files resets the application to its default settings, and it also removes lingering data that can contribute to performance slowdowns or unexpected behavior. While not always necessary, deleting preference files ensures a cleaner uninstall.
7. Is it safe to delete files from the Library folder?
Generally, yes, if you are deleting files specifically associated with an application you are uninstalling. However, be extremely cautious. Deleting system-critical files can cause instability. If you’re unsure, it’s best to leave the file alone or consult with a knowledgeable user or professional.
8. How do I find all the files associated with a specific app?
The manual method involves searching the Application Support, Preferences, and Caches folders within both the user and system Library folders. However, using a dedicated uninstaller application like AppCleaner or CleanMyMac X automates this process and is generally more thorough and safer.
9. What is the difference between deleting an app and uninstalling an app?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but “uninstalling” generally implies a more thorough removal of all associated files and folders, including preferences, caches, and support files. Simply dragging an app to the Trash is a basic deletion, while using a dedicated uninstaller or manually searching for and deleting related files constitutes a more complete uninstall.
10. Does deleting an app free up space on my Mac?
Yes, deleting an app frees up disk space. The amount of space freed depends on the size of the application and the number of associated files that are removed.
11. How do I reinstall an app I deleted?
If you deleted an app downloaded from the Mac App Store, you can reinstall it from the App Store by searching for the app and clicking the “Install” button. If you downloaded the app from another source, you’ll need to locate the original installer file (e.g., a .DMG file) and reinstall it from there.
12. Why is my Trash not emptying?
Several factors can prevent the Trash from emptying, including locked files, permissions issues, or corrupted files. Try restarting your Mac, or try emptying the Trash securely (right-click on Trash and select “Secure Empty Trash” – be aware this will take longer). You can also try using Terminal commands (advanced users only) to force empty the Trash.
By following these guidelines and understanding the nuances of macOS app deletion, you can keep your system clean, optimized, and running smoothly. Remember to exercise caution when manually deleting files from the Library folder, and consider using a dedicated uninstaller application for a more thorough and safer experience.
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