How to Uninstall Zoom on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners and Experts

Introduction

Hey there, readers! Welcome to our exhaustive guide on how to uninstall Zoom on your Mac. Whether you’re a first-timer or a tech-savvy user, we’ve got you covered with a step-by-step walkthrough and troubleshooting tips. So, let’s dive right in and get Zoom removed from your system!

Why Uninstall Zoom?

Zoom has become an indispensable tool for remote communication. But sometimes, you might need to remove it from your Mac due to space constraints, performance issues, or a preference for alternative video conferencing apps. Whatever your reason, this guide will empower you with the knowledge to uninstall Zoom thoroughly and efficiently.

Uninstallation Methods

Method 1: Using the Application Folder

  1. Locate Zoom in Applications: Open your Finder window and navigate to the Applications folder. Scroll down to find the Zoom app.
  2. Drag and Drop to Trash: Click and hold the Zoom icon, then drag and drop it into the Trash bin located on the Dock.
  3. Empty Trash: Right-click on the Trash icon and select "Empty Trash." This will permanently delete Zoom from your Mac.

Method 2: Using Launchpad

  1. Open Launchpad: Click on the Launchpad icon in your Dock or Applications folder.
  2. Find and Hold Zoom: Locate the Zoom icon in the Launchpad. Click and hold on it until the icons start jiggling.
  3. Click ‘X’ Button: A small ‘X’ button will appear on the Zoom icon. Click on it to uninstall the application.

Method 3: Using Terminal

  1. Open Terminal: Click on the Spotlight search bar in the menu bar and type "Terminal." Press Enter to open the Terminal window.
  2. Enter Uninstall Command: Type the following command in the Terminal window:
sudo "/Applications/Zoom.app/Contents/MacOS/uninstall"
  1. Provide Password: When prompted, enter your Mac’s administrator password and press Enter.
  2. Confirm Uninstallation: Wait for the process to complete. Once finished, Zoom will be uninstalled from your Mac.

Troubleshooting

Zoom Uninstaller Not Working?

  • Check for Running Zoom: Make sure Zoom is not running. If it is, quit the application before attempting to uninstall.
  • Use Force Quit: If Zoom is stuck, force quit it by pressing Command + Option + Escape (Esc), selecting Zoom, and clicking on "Force Quit."
  • Delete Zoom Folder Manually: If the uninstaller fails, navigate to the Applications folder and manually delete the Zoom folder.

Leftover Zoom Files?

  • Delete Preferences: Open the Finder window and go to ~/Library/Preferences. Delete the following file: "com.zoom.us.plist"
  • Empty Cache: Go to ~/Library/Caches and delete the folder named "com.zoom.us."
  • Remove ~/Documents/Zoom Directory: If you have any local recordings or chat histories stored in Zoom, you can delete the "~/Documents/Zoom" directory.

Table: Uninstallation Methods Summary

Method Steps
Application Folder Drag and drop Zoom to Trash
Launchpad Click ‘X’ button on Zoom icon
Terminal Enter uninstall command

Conclusion

Congratulations, readers! You’ve successfully uninstalled Zoom from your Mac. Whether you’re decluttering your system or opting for a different video conferencing tool, you now have the knowledge to remove Zoom effortlessly.

If you enjoyed this guide, be sure to check out our other articles on optimizing your Mac and staying connected remotely. Thanks for reading!

FAQ about How to Uninstall Zoom on Mac

How do I uninstall Zoom on Mac?

Open Finder, then drag the Zoom app to the Trash.

How do I remove Zoom files and preferences?

After moving Zoom to the Trash, open it and empty it. Then, delete the following files and folders:

  • ~/Library/Application Support/zoom.us
  • ~/Library/Preferences/us.zoom.xos.plist
  • ~/Library/Preferences/ZoomPreferences.plist

How do I uninstall Zoom through Terminal?

Open Terminal and type the following command:

sudo rm -rf /Applications/Zoom.app

Press Enter and enter your password when prompted.

How do I uninstall Zoom updates?

Go to ~/Library/Application Support/Zoom/Updates and delete all files.

How do I remove Zoom extensions from browsers?

Safari:

  • Open Safari and go to Safari > Preferences > Extensions.
  • Find the Zoom extension and click Uninstall.

Chrome:

  • Open Chrome and go to chrome://extensions.
  • Find the Zoom extension and click Remove.

Firefox:

  • Open Firefox and go to about:addons.
  • Find the Zoom extension and click Remove.

How do I reinstall Zoom?

Download the latest Zoom installer from zoom.us/download. Drag the Zoom icon from the installer to your Applications folder.

How do I fix errors when uninstalling Zoom?

If you encounter errors, try the following:

  • Make sure you have administrator privileges.
  • Quit all running Zoom processes.
  • Use a third-party app cleaner like AppCleaner or CleanMyMac X.

How do I delete Zoom meeting recordings?

Meeting recordings are stored in your Zoom account. Log in to your account, go to Recordings, and delete the desired recordings.

How do I cancel my Zoom subscription?

Go to the Zoom website, log in to your account, and click on Billing. Under Active Subscriptions, click Cancel Subscription.

How do I get support for Zoom uninstallation?

Contact Zoom support through their website or by calling their support number.