Macs are known for their sleek, user-friendly interface and smooth performance. However, even with all the advantages that Macs offer, users may still find themselves in need of uninstalling an application. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to uninstall apps on a MacBook. As well, we will provide some tips for keeping your system running smoothly.
Why Uninstall Apps on a MacBook?
There are a few reasons why you might want to uninstall apps on your MacBook. One of the main reasons is to free up storage space on your hard drive. As you download and install more apps, your hard drive can become cluttered with files that you no longer need. Uninstalling apps can help you free up valuable storage space and make your computer run more efficiently.
Another reason to uninstall apps on your MacBook is to remove apps that you no longer use. For example, if an app is constantly crashing or freezing, it may be best to remove it.
Method 1: Using the Launchpad
The easiest and most straightforward way to uninstall an application on a Mac is through the Launchpad. The Launchpad is a feature built into macOS that allows you to access and organize all of the applications installed on your Mac. To access the Launchpad, simply click the rocket ship icon in your Dock.
To uninstall programs on a Mac is by using Launchpad, follow these steps:
- Click on the Launchpad icon in the Dock to open Launchpad.
- Locate the program you want to uninstall and click and hold on its icon until it starts to jiggle.
- Press on the “X” button that appears in the top-left corner of the program’s icon.
- Confirm that you want to delete the program by clicking on the “Delete” button.
The application will be uninstalled and removed from the Launchpad.
Method 2: Using the Finder
Another way to uninstall an application on a Mac is through the Finder. The Finder is the default file manager for macOS and is used to locate, organize, and manage files and folders on your Mac.
To uninstall an application on a Mac is by using the Finder, follow these steps:
- Press on the Finder icon in the Dock or keyboard shortcut “Command + Shift + A” to open a new Finder window.
- Navigate to the “Applications” folder
- Locate the program you want to uninstall in the Applications folder.
- Drag the program’s icon to the Trash.
- Once the program has been removed from the Applications folder, you can empty the Trash to complete the uninstallation process.
The application will be uninstalled and removed from the “Applications” folder.
Method 3: Using 3rd-Party Software
In some cases, the methods above may not fully remove all of the files associated with an application. If you’re having trouble uninstalling an application you can use third-party software such as AppCleaner or CleanMyMac.
These applications are specifically designed to remove all of the files associated with a particular application, including preference files, caches, and other hidden files.
Tips and Tricks
- Before you uninstall a program, make sure that you have all of the necessary files and information saved somewhere else. This is especially important if you’re uninstalling a program that you’ve been using to create or edit documents.
- If you’re unsure whether or not you need a program, don’t uninstall it right away. Instead, try disabling it by removing it from your Login Items list. If you find that you don’t need the program, you can then proceed with uninstalling it.
- Keep in mind that some programs may install additional components or files, such as system preferences or preference panes.
- Always be careful when uninstalling programs, especially if you’re using third-party uninstallers. Make sure that you’re only removing the program you want to remove. Plus make sure that you understand what you’re doing before you begin the uninstallation process.
- Regularly check your “Applications” folder and remove any applications that you no longer use, to free up space on your hard drive.
- Use a cleaner application like CCleaner for Mac or OnyX to keep your system running smoothly by removing unnecessary files.
- To keep your system running smoothly also clear the cache and the cookies. Here is a guide on How to Clear Cache & Cookies in Different Web Browser