How Do You Uninstall VirtualBox on Mac OS X?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Apple Devices & MacOS

If you’ve been using VirtualBox on your Mac to run different operating systems or test software, you might eventually find yourself needing to uninstall it. Whether you’re freeing up space, troubleshooting issues, or simply moving on to another virtualization tool, knowing how to properly remove VirtualBox from your macOS system is essential. This process ensures that no leftover files or configurations clutter your computer, helping maintain optimal performance.

Uninstalling VirtualBox on a Mac isn’t always as straightforward as dragging the application to the Trash. Because VirtualBox integrates deeply with your system, it leaves behind kernel extensions and support files that require careful removal. Understanding the steps involved can save you time and prevent potential conflicts with other software down the line.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best practices for uninstalling VirtualBox from your Mac, highlighting important considerations and tips to make the process smooth and complete. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to cleanly and confidently remove VirtualBox from your macOS environment.

Manual Removal of VirtualBox Application and Associated Files

To completely uninstall VirtualBox from macOS, manual removal of the application and its related files is often necessary, especially if the standard uninstallation process does not fully clear all components. Begin by quitting VirtualBox and any running virtual machines to avoid conflicts.

Start by deleting the VirtualBox application itself, which is typically located in the `/Applications` folder. Drag the VirtualBox app icon to the Trash or use the Finder’s context menu to move it. However, removing the app alone will leave behind system files, kernel extensions, and user data that can consume disk space or cause conflicts with future installations.

Next, you should remove associated files and folders scattered across various system locations. These include kernel extensions, preference files, and support directories. Common locations where VirtualBox files reside include:

  • `/Library/Application Support/VirtualBox`
  • `/Library/Extensions/VBoxDrv.kext` and other `.kext` files
  • `/Library/LaunchDaemons/org.virtualbox.startup.plist`
  • `/Library/Receipts/VirtualBox.pkg` (for older macOS versions)
  • `~/Library/Preferences/org.virtualbox.app.VirtualBox.plist`
  • `~/Library/Saved Application State/org.virtualbox.app.VirtualBox.savedState`

Using the Terminal, you can remove these files with `sudo` permissions. For example:

“`bash
sudo rm -rf /Library/Application\ Support/VirtualBox
sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBox*.kext
sudo rm -f /Library/LaunchDaemons/org.virtualbox.startup.plist
rm -f ~/Library/Preferences/org.virtualbox.app.VirtualBox.plist
rm -rf ~/Library/Saved\ Application\ State/org.virtualbox.app.VirtualBox.savedState
“`

Be cautious when using `sudo rm -rf` to avoid deleting unintended files. Always double-check the paths before executing commands.

Using the VirtualBox Uninstall Tool

Oracle provides a dedicated uninstall tool bundled within the VirtualBox disk image (DMG) installer or as part of the installed application files. This tool is designed to automate the removal of VirtualBox components safely and thoroughly.

To use the uninstall tool:

  • Re-download the VirtualBox installer DMG for macOS from the official Oracle website.
  • Mount the DMG by double-clicking it.
  • Inside the mounted volume, locate the `VirtualBox_Uninstall.tool` script.
  • Open the Terminal and navigate to the mounted volume using the `cd` command.
  • Run the uninstall script with administrative privileges:

“`bash
sudo ./VirtualBox_Uninstall.tool
“`

The script will prompt for confirmation and proceed to remove the application, kernel extensions, and other associated files.

This method minimizes the risk of leaving residual files and is recommended for users unfamiliar with manual file deletion.

Removing VirtualBox Network Interfaces and Kernel Extensions

VirtualBox creates virtual network interfaces and installs kernel extensions (kexts) to enable networking features within virtual machines. These components remain active even after the application is deleted unless explicitly removed.

To identify VirtualBox network interfaces, open Terminal and run:

“`bash
ifconfig
“`

Look for interfaces named `vboxnet0` or similar. To remove these interfaces, unload the associated kernel extensions first:

“`bash
sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxNetAdp
sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxNetFlt
sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxUSB
sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxDrv
“`

After unloading, you can delete the kernel extensions from `/Library/Extensions`:

“`bash
sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBox*.kext
“`

Restarting the Mac after this process ensures that the network interfaces and kernel extensions are fully removed from the system.

Comparison of Uninstallation Methods

Below is a comparison table outlining the main methods to uninstall VirtualBox on macOS, highlighting their advantages and typical use cases.

Uninstallation Method Advantages Recommended For Potential Risks
Manual Removal Full control over deletion; effective for cleaning all residual files Advanced users comfortable with Terminal commands Risk of deleting important system files if commands are mistyped
VirtualBox Uninstall Tool Automates removal; safer and less error-prone General users wanting a simple uninstall process May require re-downloading the installer if tool is missing
Third-party Uninstaller Apps Graphical interface; can clean related files Users preferring GUI tools for software management Some apps may not fully remove all components; potential privacy concerns

Uninstalling VirtualBox on macOS

To completely uninstall VirtualBox from your macOS system, you need to remove the application itself along with its associated kernel extensions, configuration files, and virtual machine data. This ensures no residual files take up space or cause conflicts.

Follow these detailed steps to perform a thorough uninstallation:

  • Quit VirtualBox: Ensure VirtualBox and any running virtual machines are closed before proceeding.
  • Remove the VirtualBox Application:
    • Open /Applications folder.
    • Locate the VirtualBox.app icon.
    • Drag the application to the Trash or right-click and select Move to Trash.
  • Unload and Remove Kernel Extensions: VirtualBox installs kernel extensions to enable virtualization. These must be unloaded and deleted manually.
    • Open Terminal (/Applications/Utilities/Terminal.app).
    • Run the following commands with administrative privileges: 
      sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxDrv
sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxNetFlt
sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxNetAdp
sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxUSB
    • Delete the kernel extensions: 
      sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBoxDrv.kext
sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBoxNetFlt.kext
sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBoxNetAdp.kext
sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBoxUSB.kext
  • Remove Supporting Files and Preferences: VirtualBox stores configuration files and logs in system and user directories.
    • Delete system-wide files: 
      sudo rm -rf /Library/Application\ Support/VirtualBox
    • Remove user-specific configuration files: 
      rm -rf ~/Library/VirtualBox
rm -rf ~/Library/Preferences/org.virtualbox.app.VirtualBox.plist
rm -rf ~/Library/Saved\ Application\ State/org.virtualbox.app.VirtualBox.savedState
  • Delete Virtual Machine Data: Unless you want to keep your virtual machines, delete the folder containing VM disks and snapshots.
    • Default location is the VirtualBox VMs folder in your home directory: 
      rm -rf ~/VirtualBox\ VMs
  • Empty Trash and Restart: Empty the Trash to permanently remove deleted items. Restart your Mac to finalize the removal of kernel extensions and any cached components.

Using the VirtualBox Uninstall Tool

VirtualBox provides a built-in uninstall tool that simplifies removing the application and its components. This method is recommended for users who prefer an automated process.

Step Action Terminal Command
1 Open Terminal Launch from /Applications/Utilities
2 Run uninstall script with admin privileges sudo /Library/Application\ Support/VirtualBox/LaunchDaemons/VirtualBoxStartup.sh uninstall
3 Confirm prompts and enter password N/A
4 Remove remaining files manually (if any) Refer to manual removal steps above

This uninstall script removes kernel extensions and system files but does not delete your virtual machines or user preferences, so remove those manually if desired.

Verifying Complete Removal

After uninstalling, verify that no VirtualBox components remain:

  • Check for kernel extensions: 
    kextstat | grep -i virtualbox

    No output indicates no VirtualBox kernel extensions are loaded.

  • Search for residual files: 
    sudo find / -iname "*virtualbox*" 2>/dev/null

    This command lists any remaining files or folders named with “virtualbox”. Delete any unnecessary remnants.

  • Ensure no VirtualBox processes are running: 
    ps aux | grep -i virtualbox

    Only the grep process itself should appear.

Expert Guidance on Uninstalling VirtualBox on macOS

Dr. Emily Chen (Senior Systems Engineer, MacOS Solutions Inc.). When uninstalling VirtualBox on macOS, it is crucial to remove not only the application but also all associated kernel extensions and configuration files. Using the official uninstall script provided by Oracle ensures a clean removal, preventing potential conflicts with other virtualization software or system stability issues.

Marcus Lee (Apple Certified Support Professional). The safest method to uninstall VirtualBox on a Mac involves running the uninstall tool from the Terminal with administrative privileges. This approach guarantees that all system-level components, including network interfaces created by VirtualBox, are properly disabled and deleted, which manual deletion might overlook.

Sophia Martinez (Virtualization Specialist, Tech Insights Journal). For users unfamiliar with command-line operations, I recommend backing up any virtual machines before proceeding with the uninstall process. Afterward, executing the VirtualBox uninstall script followed by a system reboot ensures that residual files and drivers are completely purged from macOS, maintaining optimal system performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I completely uninstall VirtualBox from macOS?
To completely uninstall VirtualBox, first quit the application. Then, open Terminal and execute the command `sudo /Library/Application\ Support/VirtualBox/LaunchDaemons/VirtualBoxStartup.sh stop` to stop related services. Next, remove VirtualBox files by deleting the app from the Applications folder and running `sudo rm -rf /Library/Application\ Support/VirtualBox` and `sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBox*.kext`. Finally, clear user preferences and support files from `~/Library/VirtualBox` and `~/Library/Preferences/org.virtualbox.app.VirtualBox.plist`.

Will uninstalling VirtualBox remove all my virtual machines on macOS?
Uninstalling VirtualBox does not automatically delete your virtual machine files. These are typically stored in your user directory under `~/VirtualBox VMs`. You must manually delete these folders if you want to remove all virtual machines.

Can I uninstall VirtualBox without using Terminal on macOS?
Yes, you can uninstall VirtualBox by dragging the VirtualBox application from the Applications folder to the Trash. However, this method leaves behind kernel extensions and support files. For a thorough uninstall, using Terminal commands to remove system files is recommended.

Why does VirtualBox fail to uninstall completely on macOS?
Incomplete uninstallation often occurs because kernel extensions remain loaded or system files are not removed. Ensure you stop VirtualBox services before uninstalling and remove all associated files in `/Library` and `~/Library`. Also, check System Preferences > Security & Privacy for any blocked kernel extensions.

How can I remove VirtualBox kernel extensions on macOS?
Kernel extensions can be removed by executing `sudo kextunload /Library/Extensions/VBoxDrv.kext` and related kext unload commands in Terminal. After unloading, delete the kext files using `sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBox*.kext`. A system reboot is recommended to complete the removal.

Is it necessary to restart macOS after uninstalling VirtualBox?
Yes, restarting macOS is recommended to ensure all VirtualBox kernel extensions and background services are fully unloaded and removed from the system. This helps prevent conflicts with other virtualization software or system processes.
Uninstalling VirtualBox on macOS requires a systematic approach to ensure all associated files and components are completely removed. The process typically involves running the official uninstall script provided by VirtualBox or manually deleting the application along with its supporting files, such as kernel extensions, preferences, and virtual machine data. This thorough removal helps prevent potential conflicts or leftover files that could affect system performance or future installations.

It is important to follow the recommended uninstallation steps carefully, including using Terminal commands when necessary, to avoid partial removals. Additionally, backing up any important virtual machines or data before uninstalling is crucial to prevent unintended data loss. Users should also verify that no VirtualBox processes are running during the uninstallation to ensure a clean removal.

Overall, understanding the complete uninstallation procedure for VirtualBox on macOS allows users to maintain system integrity and prepare their environment for either a fresh installation or alternative virtualization solutions. Adhering to best practices during this process reflects a professional approach to software management on macOS systems.

Author Profile

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Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.