If you are searching for how to uninstall MacKeeper in Mac, you are not alone. Many users install MacKeeper to optimize performance, clean junk files, or add antivirus protection, but later decide to remove it. Whether you are switching to another security tool or simply no longer need it, uninstalling MacKeeper properly is important to prevent leftover files and background services from slowing down your Mac.
This complete guide will help you understand how to uninstall MacKeeper in Mac safely and thoroughly without leaving residual components behind.
Why Users Want to Uninstall MacKeeper
MacKeeper is a utility application developed by Clario Tech that offers antivirus protection, system cleanup tools, performance optimization, VPN services, and identity monitoring. While it is a legitimate software, some users choose to remove it for several reasons:
Performance concerns if the app consumes memory
Switching to another antivirus or security solution
Canceling a paid subscription
Troubleshooting software conflicts
Removing a trial version
No matter your reason, it is essential to uninstall MacKeeper correctly instead of simply dragging it to the Trash.
Things to Do Before Uninstalling
Before you begin the uninstall process, take a few precautionary steps to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Make sure you are logged in as an administrator on your Mac.
Close MacKeeper completely if it is running in the background.
Back up important data using Time Machine or another backup method.
Cancel your MacKeeper subscription if you do not want future charges.
These steps will help avoid permission errors and billing issues later.
Method One: Uninstall MacKeeper Using the Built-In Uninstaller
The safest and recommended method to uninstall MacKeeper in Mac is by using the built-in uninstaller included within the application.
First, open Finder and go to the Applications folder.
Locate MacKeeper and launch it.
Click MacKeeper in the top menu bar.
Select Preferences from the dropdown menu.
Under the General tab, find the option labeled Uninstall MacKeeper.
Click the Uninstall button and enter your administrator password when prompted.
Once the process is complete, restart your Mac. This ensures that any background services related to MacKeeper are fully stopped.
This method removes most of the application files automatically and is the easiest solution for most users.
Method Two: Manually Uninstall MacKeeper in Mac
If the built-in uninstaller is not working or MacKeeper was partially removed earlier, you may need to uninstall it manually.
Remove the Main Application File
Open Finder.
Go to the Applications folder.
Find MacKeeper.
Drag it to the Trash.
Empty the Trash.
This removes the main application file, but additional system files may still exist in hidden folders.
Delete Leftover MacKeeper Files from Library
Mac applications often store support files inside the Library folder. To completely uninstall MacKeeper in Mac, you need to check these directories.
Open Finder.
Click Go in the top menu.
Choose Go to Folder.
Enter each of the following paths separately and look for files or folders containing the name MacKeeper:
Library Application Support
Library Caches
Library Preferences
Library LaunchAgents
Library LaunchDaemons
If you see any files related to MacKeeper, move them to the Trash. After removing all related files, empty the Trash again.
Be careful not to delete files that belong to other applications or macOS itself.
Remove MacKeeper from Login Items
Sometimes MacKeeper adds itself to startup programs, which means it launches automatically when your Mac boots.
To remove it:
Open System Settings.
Go to General.
Click on Login Items.
Check the list of startup applications.
If MacKeeper appears, remove it from the list.
Restart your Mac afterward to confirm it no longer launches during startup.
Check Activity Monitor for Remaining Processes
After uninstalling MacKeeper, verify that no background services are still running.
Open Activity Monitor from the Applications Utilities folder.
Use the search bar and type MacKeeper.
If no results appear, it means the application has been fully removed.
If you still see related processes, restart your Mac and check again.
How to Cancel MacKeeper Subscription
Uninstalling the application does not automatically cancel your subscription. You must cancel it separately to avoid future billing.
If you purchased directly from MacKeeper:
Open the application before uninstalling.
Go to your account settings.
Navigate to the billing section.
Cancel your subscription.
If you subscribed through the Mac App Store:
Open System Settings.
Click your Apple ID.
Select Subscriptions.
Locate MacKeeper and cancel it.
Always confirm cancellation through email or account confirmation to avoid unexpected charges.
Troubleshooting Common Uninstall Issues
Some users experience issues while trying to uninstall MacKeeper in Mac. Below are common problems and solutions.
MacKeeper Will Not Close
Open Activity Monitor and force quit the application. Once closed, try the uninstall process again.
Permission Denied Message
Make sure you are using an administrator account. Enter the correct password when prompted.
Files Keep Reappearing
Boot your Mac into Safe Mode and repeat the manual removal steps. Safe Mode prevents third-party software from loading automatically.
Does Uninstalling MacKeeper Affect macOS?
Removing MacKeeper does not damage your operating system. macOS includes built-in security features such as Gatekeeper and XProtect that provide basic protection.
However, if you rely on antivirus protection, consider installing another trusted security program after uninstalling MacKeeper.
Alternative Option: Use a Mac Cleanup Tool
Some users prefer third-party uninstall tools that scan for leftover files automatically. These utilities search for hidden system files and remove them safely.
If you choose this method, make sure you use a reputable cleanup tool to avoid installing unnecessary or potentially unwanted software.
Benefits of Properly Uninstalling MacKeeper
Completely removing MacKeeper can provide several benefits:
Freeing up storage space
Reducing background memory usage
Improving startup speed
Preventing subscription billing issues
Eliminating software conflicts
A clean uninstall ensures your Mac runs efficiently without leftover components affecting performance.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to uninstall MacKeeper in Mac correctly ensures your system stays clean and optimized. Whether you use the built-in uninstaller or remove the app manually, always check for leftover files and startup items.
Taking the time to verify complete removal prevents future issues and keeps your Mac running smoothly. By following the detailed steps in this guide, you can confidently uninstall MacKeeper and maintain full control over your system performance and security.