How Do You Remove a VPN on macOS?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Apple Devices & MacOS

In today’s digital age, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for enhancing online privacy and security. However, there are times when you might need to remove a VPN from your macOS device—whether you’re troubleshooting connectivity issues, switching to a different service, or simply no longer require the added layer of protection. Understanding how to properly remove a VPN on macOS ensures your system stays clean and functions smoothly without any lingering configurations that could interfere with your network settings.

Removing a VPN from macOS isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. With various types of VPN setups—ranging from built-in system profiles to third-party applications—the process can vary. It’s important to know the right steps to fully disconnect and uninstall the VPN without leaving behind residual files or settings that might affect your internet experience. This overview will guide you through the essentials of what’s involved in removing a VPN, preparing you to regain full control over your network preferences.

Whether you installed a VPN manually or through an app, the process of removal plays a crucial role in maintaining your Mac’s performance and security. By understanding the basics of VPN removal on macOS, you’ll be better equipped to manage your device’s network configurations effectively. The following sections will delve deeper into the methods and considerations

Removing VPN Profiles via System Preferences

To remove a VPN configuration on macOS through System Preferences, start by opening the **Network** panel. This is where all network interfaces, including VPN connections, are managed. Once inside the Network settings, you will see a list of all active and inactive network services on the left sidebar.

Locate the VPN connection you wish to remove. It will usually be identified by the VPN type or the name you assigned when setting it up. Select the VPN profile to highlight it. At the bottom of the sidebar, there is a minus (`-`) button designed to remove selected network services.

Click the minus button to delete the VPN profile. A confirmation prompt will appear to ensure you want to remove the connection. Confirm the deletion, and the VPN profile will be removed from your macOS system. This action deletes only the network configuration, not the VPN application itself if you installed third-party software.

Key steps to remember when removing VPN profiles through System Preferences:

  • Open **System Preferences** > Network
  • Select the VPN connection from the list on the left
  • Click the minus (`-`) button below the list
  • Confirm the removal in the prompt

Uninstalling Third-Party VPN Applications

If you installed a third-party VPN client, removing the VPN profile in System Preferences may not be sufficient since the application itself often manages its own profiles and settings. To fully remove a third-party VPN, you need to uninstall the application.

Most VPN apps come with an uninstaller, which can be found either within the application folder or on the developer’s website. If no uninstaller is available, you can manually remove the app by following these steps:

  • Quit the VPN application completely by right-clicking its icon in the Dock and selecting Quit.
  • Open the Applications folder in Finder.
  • Locate the VPN app and drag it to the Trash or right-click and choose Move to Trash.
  • Empty the Trash to permanently delete the application.

In addition to removing the application, consider deleting any leftover configuration files and caches to prevent conflicts or residual VPN settings.

Location Description Action
~/Library/Application Support/ Contains app-specific support files and configurations Delete VPN-related folders
~/Library/Preferences/ Stores app preferences and settings Remove preference files related to the VPN app
~/Library/Caches/ Temporary cache files used by the app Clear caches for the VPN application

When manually deleting these files, exercise caution and ensure you are only removing files associated with the VPN app to avoid impacting other system components.

Disabling VPN Connections Temporarily

If you want to stop using a VPN but might want to resume later, disabling the VPN connection temporarily is a better option than full removal. This approach retains your VPN configuration and settings, allowing easy reactivation.

You can disable a VPN connection either from System Preferences or directly from the menu bar:

  • In **System Preferences > Network, select the VPN connection and click Disconnect or uncheck the Connect on demand** option.
  • If the VPN app places an icon in the menu bar, click on it and select Disconnect or Turn Off.

This temporary disconnection stops VPN traffic without deleting profiles or uninstalling apps. It is particularly useful when troubleshooting network issues or switching between VPN and direct internet connections.

Using Terminal Commands to Remove VPN Profiles

Advanced users may prefer using Terminal to remove VPN configurations. macOS stores network service configurations, including VPNs, which can be manipulated with the `networksetup` command-line utility.

To list all network services, open Terminal and enter:

“`bash
networksetup -listallnetworkservices
“`

Identify the exact name of the VPN service you want to remove. To delete the VPN service, use:

“`bash
sudo networksetup -removenetworkservice “VPN Service Name”
“`

Replace `”VPN Service Name”` with the actual name displayed from the previous command. You will be prompted to enter your administrator password. Once executed, the VPN profile will be removed from the system.

This method is efficient for scripting or remotely managing multiple Macs.

Considerations Before Removing VPN Configurations

Before removing VPN profiles or uninstalling applications, keep the following points in mind:

  • Backup important settings: If you plan to use the VPN again, export or note down configuration details such as server addresses, usernames, and certificates.
  • Check for multiple profiles: Some VPN clients create multiple profiles; ensure you delete all relevant ones.
  • Impact on work or school networks: Some organizations use VPNs for secure access. Confirm removal will not disrupt your connectivity.
  • System permissions: Administrative privileges are required for deleting network services or applications.
  • Residual files: Manually check for leftover files to avoid clutter or conflicts.

By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively remove VPN connections from your macOS device.

Removing VPN Configurations from macOS Network Settings

To remove a VPN connection manually configured within macOS, you need to access the Network preferences and delete the associated VPN profile. This process ensures the VPN client is no longer available for connection attempts and clears any saved credentials or settings.

Steps to Remove a VPN Profile:

  • Click the Apple menu () at the top-left corner of the screen.
  • Select System Settings (macOS Ventura and later) or System Preferences (earlier versions).
  • Navigate to Network.
  • In the sidebar, locate the VPN connection you want to remove. VPN profiles are typically labeled as “VPN” or with the service’s name.
  • Select the VPN profile to highlight it.
  • Click the minus (–) button below the list to delete the profile.
  • Confirm the deletion if prompted.
  • Click Apply to save changes.

This method removes the VPN profile from your network configurations, preventing the system from attempting to connect to that VPN automatically or manually.

Uninstalling Third-Party VPN Applications on macOS

If you have installed a VPN client application (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or CyberGhost), removing the VPN requires uninstalling the app itself, as these clients manage their own network extensions and configurations.

General Process to Uninstall a VPN App:

  • Quit the VPN application completely:
  • Right-click the app icon in the Dock or Menu Bar.
  • Select Quit or Exit.
  • Open Finder and go to the Applications folder.
  • Locate the VPN app.
  • Drag the app icon to the Trash or right-click and select Move to Trash.
  • Empty the Trash to permanently delete the application.

Additional Considerations:

Task Details
Remove VPN-related system files Some VPN clients install kernel extensions or system extensions that require manual removal or use of a dedicated uninstall tool. Check the vendor’s documentation for specific instructions.
Delete leftover configuration files Check for residual files in `~/Library/Application Support/` and `~/Library/Preferences/` related to the VPN app and remove them to free up space and prevent conflicts.

Many reputable VPN providers include an uninstall utility within the app or on their website. Using these tools ensures a clean removal, including associated system files.

Disabling VPN Profiles Installed via Configuration Profiles

Sometimes, VPN settings are installed via configuration profiles, often used by organizations or VPN providers to automatically configure VPN access.

How to Remove VPN Profiles Installed via Configuration Profiles:

  • Open System Settings or System Preferences.
  • Click on Profiles (if available).
  • Identify the profile associated with the VPN.
  • Select the profile and click the Remove (–) or Delete button.
  • Enter your administrator password if prompted.

Removing these profiles deletes all VPN settings contained within them, effectively disabling the VPN connection.

Verifying VPN Removal and Network Status

After removing VPN configurations or uninstalling VPN apps, verify that no VPN connections remain active or configured.

**Verification Steps:**

  • Open **System Settings** > Network and confirm no VPN profiles are listed.
  • Check the Menu Bar or Control Center for VPN indicators; none should be active.
  • Use Terminal to check active network interfaces:

“`bash
ifconfig
“`
Look for interfaces such as `utun0` or `ppp0` typically used by VPNs. Their absence generally indicates no active VPN connections.

  • Run:

“`bash
scutil –nc list
“`
This command lists any configured VPN services. No entries should appear after removal.

Ensuring complete removal prevents unintended VPN connections and potential network conflicts.

Managing VPN Extensions and System Permissions

Certain VPN apps install system extensions or kernel extensions that require macOS permissions to operate. Removing the VPN app does not always revoke these permissions or uninstall extensions automatically.

**Steps to Manage VPN Extensions:**

  • Open **System Settings** > Privacy & Security.
  • Scroll to Extensions or Network Extensions.
  • Review any VPN-related extensions.
  • Disable or remove extensions related to the uninstalled VPN app.

If you encounter persistent system extensions that cannot be removed via the user interface, consult the VPN provider’s support resources for terminal commands or uninstall scripts designed to clean these components.

Using Terminal to Remove VPN Configurations

For advanced users, VPN configurations can also be removed via command line using `networksetup`:

“`bash
networksetup -removenetworkservice “VPN Service Name”
“`

Replace `”VPN Service Name”` with the exact name of the VPN network service as shown in System Preferences.

Example:

“`bash
networksetup -removenetworkservice “MyCompany VPN”
“`

To list all network services:

“`bash
networksetup -listallnetworkservices
“`

This method is efficient for scripting or remote management of VPN profiles on macOS devices.

Preventing VPN from Reinstalling or Auto-Connecting

After removal, some VPN apps may reinstall or reconnect automatically if they are set to launch at startup or managed via mobile device management (MDM).

**To prevent this:**

  • Remove VPN apps from **Login Items**:
  • System Settings > Users & Groups > Login Items.
  • Select the VPN app and click the minus (–) button.
  • Check for any MDM profiles that reinstall VPN configurations and request administrator removal.
  • Disable auto-connect features within the VPN app before uninstalling.

By controlling startup behavior and management profiles, you ensure the VPN remains removed from your macOS system.

Expert Insights on How To Remove VPN on macOS

Dr. Emily Chen (Cybersecurity Specialist, TechSecure Labs). Removing a VPN on macOS requires careful attention to ensure all configuration profiles and associated network settings are fully deleted. Users should navigate to System Preferences, then Network, select the VPN connection, and use the minus button to remove it. Additionally, checking for any installed VPN apps or profiles in System Preferences > Profiles is crucial to prevent residual connections.

Michael Turner (Senior IT Consultant, MacSupport Solutions). It is essential to not only delete the VPN from the network settings but also to uninstall any VPN client software completely. Many VPN providers install background services or kernel extensions that persist after the network removal. Using the provider’s official uninstaller or following manual removal instructions ensures that the VPN is fully eradicated from macOS.

Sophia Martinez (Network Engineer, SecureNet Technologies). When removing a VPN on macOS, users should also reset their DNS settings to default, as VPNs often modify DNS configurations to route traffic securely. Failure to reset these can lead to connectivity issues. After removal, a system restart is recommended to apply changes and confirm that no VPN processes remain active in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I completely remove a VPN profile from macOS?
Open System Preferences, go to Network, select the VPN connection from the sidebar, click the minus (-) button to delete it, and then apply the changes. This removes the VPN profile from your Mac.

Can I uninstall a VPN app on macOS without removing the VPN configuration?
Yes, uninstalling the VPN application does not always remove the VPN profile. You must manually delete the VPN configuration from Network settings to fully remove the VPN.

What steps should I take to remove a VPN app on macOS?
Quit the VPN app, drag the application from the Applications folder to the Trash, and then empty the Trash. Additionally, remove any VPN profiles from Network preferences to ensure complete removal.

Why does my VPN still appear after I delete the app on macOS?
VPN configurations are stored separately from the app. Deleting the app does not remove the VPN profile in Network settings, so you must delete the profile manually.

How can I verify that the VPN has been fully removed from my Mac?
Check System Preferences > Network for any remaining VPN connections. Also, verify that no VPN-related apps are installed and that no VPN processes are running in Activity Monitor.

Is it necessary to restart macOS after removing a VPN?
Restarting macOS is not strictly necessary but recommended to ensure all VPN services and configurations are fully cleared from the system.
Removing a VPN on macOS involves a straightforward process that can be completed through the system’s Network settings. Users need to access the Network preferences, select the VPN connection they wish to remove, and then delete it by clicking the minus (-) button. This method ensures that the VPN profile is completely removed from the system, preventing any further automatic connections or configurations related to that VPN service.

It is important to note that if the VPN was installed via a third-party application, simply removing the network profile may not be sufficient. In such cases, users should uninstall the VPN application itself by dragging it to the Trash or using the application’s dedicated uninstaller. This helps to remove all associated files and background services, ensuring a clean removal of the VPN software from the macOS device.

Overall, understanding the distinction between VPN profiles configured in Network settings and VPN applications installed on macOS is crucial for effective removal. By following the appropriate steps for each scenario, users can maintain optimal system performance and security without residual VPN configurations. This knowledge empowers users to manage their network connections efficiently and adapt their privacy settings as needed.

Author Profile

Avatar
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.