Parallels Desktop is a popular virtualization application allowing you to run Windows (and other operating systems) alongside macOS. However, if you decide to uninstall it, the process isn't always straightforward. This article guides you through completely removing Parallels Desktop from your Mac, drawing on helpful information and insights from Stack Overflow and adding practical advice.
Understanding the Uninstall Process
Simply dragging Parallels Desktop to the Trash won't suffice. Parallels often leaves behind configuration files, virtual machine files, and other remnants. A thorough uninstall ensures clean removal and avoids potential conflicts with other applications or future installations.
Several methods exist, each with its own advantages:
Method 1: Using the Parallels Uninstaller
This is the recommended method and generally the most thorough. Parallels Desktop includes its own uninstaller application.
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Locate the Uninstaller: You'll find this within the Parallels Desktop application itself or in your Applications folder. The exact location might vary slightly depending on your Parallels Desktop version.
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Run the Uninstaller: Open the uninstaller and follow the on-screen prompts. This usually involves selecting components to remove (e.g., virtual machines, configuration files) and confirming the uninstall process.
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Restart Your Mac: After the uninstaller completes, restart your Mac to ensure all changes take effect.
Method 2: Manual Removal (Advanced Users)
This method requires more technical knowledge and is only recommended if the built-in uninstaller fails. This approach draws inspiration from solutions found on Stack Overflow, addressing common issues highlighted by users. Proceed with caution! Incorrectly deleting files could damage your system.
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Identify Parallels Files and Folders: Parallels files typically reside in these locations:
/Applications/Parallels Desktop.app~/Library/Preferences/com.parallels.desktop.plist~/Library/Application Support/Parallels~/Library/Caches/com.parallels.desktop
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Move to Trash: Carefully move the identified folders and files to the Trash. Note that some files might require administrator privileges to delete.
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Empty Trash: Once all relevant files are in the Trash, empty it.
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Clean Up with
rm -rf(Extreme Caution!): As noted in various Stack Overflow discussions (though use with extreme caution!), you could utilize therm -rfcommand in Terminal to remove remaining files. Only use this if you are extremely comfortable with the command line and understand its implications. Incorrect use can lead to data loss.
Example (Use with EXTREME Caution!): sudo rm -rf ~/Library/Preferences/com.parallels.desktop.plist
(Remember to replace the file path with the actual path if it differs)
Important Considerations from Stack Overflow Insights:
Many Stack Overflow questions address lingering files or registry entries after uninstalling Parallels. This highlights the importance of using the official uninstaller and restarting your Mac. Some users report success using cleaning tools like Onyx or CCleaner after the uninstall, but use these with caution and always back up your data beforehand.
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Uninstaller (Optional)
Several third-party uninstaller applications can help ensure complete removal of software and related files. These tools often provide a more visual and user-friendly approach than manual removal. However, ensure you download such applications from reputable sources.
Verifying Complete Removal
After uninstalling, verify that Parallels Desktop is completely gone:
- Check Applications Folder: Ensure Parallels Desktop is no longer listed in your Applications folder.
- Search for Remaining Files: Use Spotlight search (Cmd + Space) to search for "Parallels" to see if any files remain.
Conclusion
Removing Parallels Desktop from your Mac effectively requires more than a simple drag-and-drop to the Trash. Utilizing the built-in uninstaller is the safest and most efficient method. While manual removal offers more control, it carries a higher risk of damaging your system. Remember to always back up your important data before undertaking any significant software removal. By following these steps, you can ensure a clean uninstall and free up valuable disk space on your Mac.