Spring Cleaning Blog Series: Uninstalling unused applications

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s also essential for keeping your computer running smoothly. This is the first blog in our 10-blog series to help you tidy up your Windows PC and Mac.

The Why: Uninstalling unused applications on your computer offers several benefits

• Frees Up Storage Space:

  • When you remove applications you no longer use, you reclaim valuable storage space on your hard drive or SSD.

  • This can lead to faster system performance and prevent your storage from becoming cluttered.

• Improves System Performance:

  • Unused applications can still run background processes, consuming system resources (CPU, RAM, etc.).

  • By uninstalling them, you reduce the load on your system, resulting in smoother performance.

• Enhances Security:

  • Outdated or unused applications may have unpatched vulnerabilities.

  • Removing them reduces the attack surface and minimizes security risks.

• Simplifies Maintenance:

  • Fewer installed applications mean less software to update and manage.

  • Regular updates are crucial for security and stability.

• Streamlines Your Interface:

  • A cluttered Start Menu or application list can be overwhelming.

  • Uninstalling unused apps makes it easier to find and access the programs you actually use.

Below are helpful tips on how to uninstall application on a Windows PC then Mac

The How for Windows PC:

Here are a few methods to do so:

1. Uninstall from the Start Menu:

• Click on the Start button.

• Scroll through the list of apps and locate the one you want to uninstall.

• Press and hold (or right-click) on the app.

• Select Uninstall.

2. Uninstall from Settings:

• Click on the Start button.

• Go to Settings (you can also press Win + I).

• Click on Apps.

• Under Apps & features, find the app you want to remove.

• Select More and then choose Uninstall.

3. Uninstall from Control Panel:

• In the search bar on the taskbar, type Control Panel and select it from the results.

• Click on Programs and then Programs and Features.

• Find the program you want to remove.

• Press and hold (or right-click) on the program and select Uninstall or Uninstall / Change.

• Follow the on-screen instructions.

Remember that some apps are built into Windows and cannot be uninstalled. If you encounter any issues during uninstallation, you can try the Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter.

The How for Mac:

 Here are a few methods you can use:

1. Using Finder:

• Open a Finder window.

• Click on Applications in the sidebar to see a list of installed apps.

• Locate the app you want to uninstall.

• Either:

  • Drag the app icon to the Trash in your dock.

  • Right-click the app icon and select Move to Trash.

• To permanently delete the app, empty the Trash.

2. Using Launchpad (for apps downloaded from the App Store):

• Open Launchpad (click it in the Dock or search for it).

• Find the app you want to remove.

• Press and hold the Option key or right-click the app icon.

• Click the Delete button next to the app.

• Confirm the deletion.

3. Smart Uninstaller Tools:

• Consider using third-party tools like MacKeeper or CleanMyMacX. These tools can help you uninstall apps and remove associated files more thoroughly.

Remember that some system apps (like Mail, Music, and Maps) cannot be uninstalled using these methods. If you encounter any issues, restart your Mac or try Safe Mode before uninstalling. And don’t worry, uninstalling an app won’t delete any documents or files you’ve created with it.

Remember to review your installed applications periodically and remove any that no longer serve a purpose. Your computer will thank you!