If you are searching for how do I uninstall MacKeeper, you are not alone. Many users install MacKeeper to improve Mac performance, remove malware, or enhance security, but later decide to remove it. Whether you no longer need the software or prefer another security solution, uninstalling it properly is important to avoid leftover files or background processes.
MacKeeper is developed by Clario and is designed to optimize and protect macOS devices. However, simply dragging the app to the Trash may not remove all related components. This guide explains how to uninstall MacKeeper completely and safely while keeping your Mac system clean.
Why Users Decide to Remove MacKeeper
There are several reasons why Mac users choose to uninstall MacKeeper:
Some users prefer relying on built-in macOS security features.
Others may switch to another antivirus or cleaning tool.
Some want to free up system resources and storage space.
A few may no longer need premium security features.
Regardless of the reason, removing the application properly ensures your Mac continues to run smoothly without leftover files.
Things to Do Before Uninstalling MacKeeper
Before starting the removal process, follow these preparation steps:
First, close MacKeeper completely. If it is running, click the icon in the menu bar and choose Quit. You can also check Activity Monitor to ensure no MacKeeper processes are active.
Second, cancel your subscription if you have an active plan. This prevents automatic billing in the future.
Third, back up important files using Time Machine or another backup solution. Although uninstalling MacKeeper should not delete personal files, creating a backup is always a safe practice.
Method One: Use the Built In Uninstaller
The safest way to uninstall MacKeeper is by using its built in removal tool. This ensures that most related files are removed automatically.
Open Finder and go to the Applications folder.
Locate the MacKeeper app and open it.
Click on the MacKeeper menu in the top left corner of your screen.
Select Uninstall MacKeeper.
Follow the on screen instructions and confirm removal.
You may be asked to enter your administrator password. Once completed, the system will remove the application and its primary components.
After finishing, restart your Mac to ensure all background services are closed properly.
Method Two: Remove MacKeeper Manually
If the built in uninstaller does not work, you can remove MacKeeper manually.
Open Finder and go to Applications.
Drag the MacKeeper app to the Trash.
Empty the Trash to remove the application file.
However, this only deletes the main app. Some support files may still remain on your system. To remove leftover files, follow these additional steps carefully.
In Finder, click Go from the top menu.
Select Go to Folder.
Type Library and press Enter.
Check the following folders for any files or folders related to MacKeeper and move them to the Trash:
Application Support
Caches
LaunchAgents
LaunchDaemons
Preferences
Be cautious not to delete unrelated files. Only remove folders clearly associated with MacKeeper.
After removing them, empty the Trash and restart your Mac.
Remove MacKeeper Extensions and Login Items
Sometimes MacKeeper installs background components that launch automatically when your Mac starts.
Open System Settings.
Go to General and select Login Items.
Look for any MacKeeper related entries.
Remove them from the list.
Next, check browser extensions.
If you use Safari, open Settings and go to Extensions. Remove any MacKeeper extensions.
If you use Chrome or another browser, check the Extensions section and remove related add ons.
This ensures MacKeeper does not continue running in the background.
Check Activity Monitor for Running Processes
To make sure MacKeeper is completely removed, open Activity Monitor.
Search for any processes related to MacKeeper.
If you find any, select them and click Force Quit.
If processes continue appearing after removal, restart your Mac and check again.
Clear Remaining System Files Carefully
Some advanced users prefer to double check for hidden files.
Open Finder.
Click Go to Folder.
Search for files containing the name MacKeeper.
If any files remain and clearly belong to the app, move them to the Trash. Be careful not to remove essential system files.
Restart your Mac once again to finalize the cleanup.
How to Confirm MacKeeper Is Completely Removed
To confirm successful removal:
Search for MacKeeper using Spotlight.
Check Applications to ensure it no longer appears.
Open Activity Monitor to verify no background services are running.
Review Login Items to confirm nothing loads automatically.
If none of these show MacKeeper components, the uninstallation process is complete.
Common Issues During Uninstallation
Some users experience small challenges while uninstalling MacKeeper.
The app may request administrator permissions. Make sure you enter the correct password.
If you receive a message saying the app is in use, open Activity Monitor and close related processes before trying again.
If certain files cannot be deleted, restart your Mac in Safe Mode and attempt removal from there.
Safe Mode prevents most background services from running and makes file removal easier.
Should You Use a Third Party Uninstaller
There are various Mac cleaning tools available that claim to remove apps completely. While some are reliable, it is not always necessary to use them.
macOS already allows manual removal of application files. If you follow the steps carefully, you can uninstall MacKeeper without installing additional software.
Always download tools only from trusted sources if you choose this route.
Will Uninstalling MacKeeper Affect Your Mac
Removing MacKeeper will not harm your Mac system. It simply removes the software and related files.
Your Mac will continue to operate normally using built in security features such as Gatekeeper and XProtect. If you prefer, you can install another antivirus or cleaning tool afterward.
If you had enabled certain privacy or security features in MacKeeper, make sure your Mac settings are configured according to your preferences after removal.
Final Thoughts
If you were asking how do I uninstall MacKeeper, the process is straightforward when done correctly. The easiest method is using the built in uninstaller within the app itself. If that does not work, manual removal through Finder and Library folders can complete the job.
Always ensure the app is fully closed before removal, delete leftover support files carefully, and restart your Mac after uninstalling. Taking these steps ensures that no background services or hidden files remain on your system.
With proper removal, your Mac will stay clean, organized, and ready to run smoothly without unnecessary software installed.