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Mac computers are known for their user-friendly interface and seamless performance. One of the perks of using a Mac is the ability to download various applications and software from the internet. However, over time, you might find yourself cluttered with unused apps that take up valuable storage space on your Mac. Deleting these downloaded apps not only frees up storage but also helps in organizing your system. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of deleting internet downloaded apps on your Mac, providing you with multiple methods to choose from.
Whether you no longer need an app, want to clear up space, or simply want to have a more organized Mac, we have got you covered. Let’s jump right into it!
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Deleting Internet Downloaded Apps on Mac
Although deleting apps might seem straightforward, deleting internet downloaded apps on a Mac can pose a slight challenge. Unlike applications downloaded from the Mac App Store, internet downloaded apps might not have an uninstaller or a direct way to delete them. These apps can vary in their installation methods, making it tricky to locate and remove them manually.
Furthermore, simply dragging the app icon to the Trash might not always be sufficient. Some apps might leave behind residual files that occupy storage space even after you delete the app. Therefore, it is important to use the right methods to ensure a complete and efficient deletion process.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we begin, there are a few things you should prepare for to ensure a smooth deletion process:
- Make sure you have administrative privileges on your Mac. You will need this to delete apps.
- Backup any important data or files related to the app you are planning to delete. This ensures you can recover them if needed.
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection. Some methods might require you to download additional software for a complete deletion process.
Method 1: Using Finder
Using Finder is one of the most common methods to delete internet downloaded apps on your Mac. Here’s how:
- Open a Finder window by clicking on the Finder icon in the Dock.
- In the sidebar, click on "Applications" to display all the applications installed on your Mac.
- Scroll through the list and locate the app you want to delete. Alternatively, you can use the search bar at the top-right corner to search for the app by name.
- Once you find the app, click on it and drag it to the Trash icon in the Dock. Alternatively, you can right-click on the app and select "Move to Trash."
- To complete the deletion process, right-click on the Trash icon in the Dock and select "Empty Trash."
| Pros | 1. Easy and straightforward process. | 2. No additional software required. | 3. Works for most internet downloaded apps. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. May not remove all residual files associated with the app. | 2. Inefficient for apps with complex installation methods. | 3. Difficulty in finding hidden app files. |
Method 2: Via Launchpad
If you prefer a more visual approach, you can use Launchpad to delete internet downloaded apps on your Mac:
- Click on the Launchpad icon in the Dock. It resembles a silver rocket ship.
- Scroll through the apps to find the one you want to delete.
- Click and hold the app icon until it starts jiggling.
- Click on the "X" button that appears on the top-left corner of the app icon.
- Click on "Delete" in the confirmation prompt.
| Pros | 1. User-friendly and visually appealing. | 2. Quick and easy deletion process. | 3. Works well for apps installed from the internet. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. Limited to apps displayed in Launchpad. | 2. Might not delete all associated files. | 3. Difficult to find hidden or system applications. |
Method 3: Using Third-Party App Removers
If you want a more comprehensive and efficient deletion process, you can use dedicated third-party app removers such as AppCleaner or CleanMyMac. These apps are designed to thoroughly delete internet downloaded apps on your Mac, including associated files. Here’s how:
- Download and install a third-party app remover like AppCleaner or CleanMyMac from their official websites.
- Launch the app remover.
- Click on the option to scan for installed applications.
- Once the scan is complete, the app remover will display a list of installed apps.
- Select the app you want to delete and click on the delete button or follow the on-screen instructions.
| Pros | 1. Thorough deletion process, including associated files. | 2. User-friendly interfaces with clear instructions. | 3. Can delete hidden or system applications. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. Additional software download required. | 2. Some app removers might be paid or offer limited functionality for free. | 3. Potential compatibility issues with certain apps or macOS versions. |
Method 4: Using Terminal
If you are comfortable with using the command line, you can also delete internet downloaded apps on your Mac using Terminal:
- Open the Terminal application. You can find it in the Utilities folder within the Applications folder or use Spotlight to search for it.
- Type the command "
cd /Applications" (without quotes) to navigate to the Applications folder. - Type the command "
ls" (without quotes) to list all the applications in the folder. - Find the application you want to delete and note down its exact name.
- Type the command "
sudo rm -rf [appname].app" (without quotes), replacing [appname] with the name of the app you want to delete. - Enter your administrator password when prompted.
| Pros | 1. Powerful and efficient method. | 2. Capable of deleting hidden or system applications. | 3. Complete removal of associated files. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | 1. Requires familiarity with the Terminal and command line. | 2. Potential risk of deleting essential system files if not used carefully. | 3. Difficult for beginners or those uncomfortable with the command line. |
Why Can’t I Delete Some Internet Downloaded Apps
While the above methods should work for most internet downloaded apps, there might be instances where you encounter difficulties in deleting certain apps. Here are some possible reasons and their fixes:
- Reason 1: The app is currently open or running in the background.
- Reason 2: Insufficient administrative privileges.
- Reason 3: The app is a system application.
Fix: Before attempting to delete the app, make sure it is closed completely. You can check if the app is running using the Activity Monitor application or by right-clicking on the app icon in the Dock and selecting "Quit."
Fix: Ensure you have administrative privileges by logging in as an administrator or providing the correct credentials when prompted.
Fix: System applications are integral to the macOS, and deleting them can cause issues. It is recommended not to delete system applications unless you are certain of their purpose and consequences.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to enhance your app deletion experience:
- Regularly review and delete unused apps to keep your Mac organized and clutter-free.
- Consider using a macOS cleaner utility to remove residual files and optimize system performance.
- Double-check the purpose and reliability of third-party app removers before downloading them.
5 FAQs about Deleting Internet Downloaded Apps on Mac
Q1: Can I delete apps directly from Launchpad?
A: Yes, you can delete apps directly from Launchpad by clicking and holding on the app icon until it starts jiggling, and then clicking on the "X" button that appears on the top-left corner of the icon.
Q2: Are there any apps I should not delete?
A: Yes, it is recommended not to delete system applications or apps related to the macOS. Deleting essential system files can cause instability and functionality issues.
Q3: How can I ensure complete deletion of an app?
A: To ensure complete deletion, consider using third-party app removers that are designed to remove associated files and clean up any residual data.
Q4: How can I recover deleted apps?
A: If you have a backup of your Mac using Time Machine or cloud storage, you can restore deleted apps from the backup. However, it is recommended to reinstall apps from reliable sources instead.
Q5: Will deleting apps improve the performance of my Mac?
A: Deleting unused apps can free up storage space and potentially enhance the performance of your Mac. However, the impact on performance might vary depending on various factors.
In Conclusion
Deleting internet downloaded apps on your Mac is essential for maintaining a clean and organized system. Whether you choose to use Finder, Launchpad, third-party app removers, or Terminal, make sure to select the method that suits your comfort and requirements.
Remember to always consider the consequences of deleting certain apps and exercise caution while using Terminal or other advanced methods. With the right approach, you can reclaim valuable storage space, optimize system performance, and enjoy a clutter-free experience on your Mac.