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Install and Uninstall Programs

How to install and remove software on your computer

Whether you need to install new software or clean up programs you no longer use, the process differs by operating system. Follow the steps below for your platform.

Installing programs:

  1. From the App Store: Open the App Store app, search for the program, and click Get or the price button, then Install
  2. From a .dmg file: Double-click the downloaded .dmg file, then drag the application icon to the Applications folder in the window that appears
  3. From a .pkg installer: Double-click the .pkg file and follow the installation wizard
  4. Using Homebrew (command line): Run brew install --cask app-name in Terminal

If macOS blocks the app with "cannot be opened because it is from an unidentified developer," go to System Settings > Privacy & Security and click Open Anyway.

Uninstalling programs:

  1. Open Finder and go to the Applications folder
  2. Drag the application to the Trash (or right-click and select Move to Trash)
  3. Empty the Trash to free up disk space
  4. Some apps include a dedicated uninstaller in their folder - use it if available

For a thorough removal, also check ~/Library/Application Support/, ~/Library/Preferences/, and ~/Library/Caches/ for leftover files.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if uninstalling a program does not fully remove it?▾

Some programs leave behind configuration files, caches, or registry entries. On Mac, apps like AppCleaner can find leftover files. On Windows, the built-in uninstaller handles most cleanup, but third-party tools like Revo Uninstaller can do a deeper clean if needed.

Is it safe to delete an application folder manually?▾

On Mac, dragging an app from the Applications folder to the Trash usually works fine for simple apps. On Windows, do not delete program folders manually because this can leave behind registry entries and system references. Always use the proper uninstall method.

How do I uninstall programs that do not appear in the list?▾

Some programs, especially small utilities, may not register themselves with the system uninstaller. Check if the program has its own uninstall option in its menu. Otherwise, you can usually safely delete the application file directly on Mac, or look for an uninstall.exe in the program's folder on Windows.