How Do I Uninstall Parallels Desktop on a Mac?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Apple Devices & MacOS

If you’ve been using Parallels Desktop on your Mac, you know how powerful it is for running Windows and other operating systems seamlessly alongside macOS. However, there may come a time when you decide it’s no longer needed, or perhaps you want to free up valuable disk space or troubleshoot issues by performing a clean uninstall. Knowing how to properly remove Parallels Desktop ensures that your Mac stays clutter-free and runs smoothly without leftover files causing any slowdowns.

Uninstalling software on a Mac can sometimes be as simple as dragging an app to the Trash, but with complex programs like Parallels Desktop, there are additional components and virtual machines that require careful removal. This process involves more than just deleting the application itself—it’s about ensuring that all associated files and configurations are completely cleared from your system. Understanding this will help you avoid common pitfalls and keep your Mac optimized.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best practices for uninstalling Parallels Desktop, including how to handle virtual machines and related files. Whether you’re a casual user or someone who relies on virtualization regularly, this guide will provide the clarity and confidence needed to manage your software effectively.

Using the Parallels Desktop Uninstaller

Parallels Desktop includes a dedicated uninstaller that ensures all application components are removed cleanly from your Mac. This method is the safest and most straightforward way to uninstall Parallels Desktop, as it prevents leftover files from cluttering your system.

To use the Parallels Desktop uninstaller:

  • Open the Parallels Desktop application.
  • From the macOS menu bar, click Parallels Desktop and select Uninstall Parallels Desktop.
  • Confirm that you want to remove the application when prompted.
  • The uninstaller will proceed to delete the main application files and associated system components.
  • Restart your Mac to complete the process and ensure all changes take effect.

This approach also removes virtual machine configurations by default, but if you wish to preserve any virtual machines, be sure to back them up before starting the uninstallation.

Manual Removal of Parallels Desktop Components

If you do not have access to the uninstaller or want to verify that all components are removed, a manual cleanup can be performed. This involves deleting application files, support files, and other system resources that Parallels Desktop installs on your Mac.

Key locations to check and remove files:

  • Applications Folder: Delete the Parallels Desktop app.
  • Library Files: Remove Parallels-related files and folders found in both system-wide and user-specific Library directories.
  • Virtual Machines Folder: If you no longer need your virtual machines, delete their corresponding files to free up space.

Below is a table summarizing common Parallels Desktop file locations and what to remove:

Location Path Files/Folders to Remove
Applications /Applications Parallels Desktop.app
User Library ~/Library/Preferences com.parallels.desktop.plist and related preference files
User Library ~/Library/Application Support Parallels folder
User Library ~/Library/Caches com.parallels.desktop caches
System Library /Library/Preferences Parallels-related plist files
System Library /Library/Application Support Parallels folder
Virtual Machines ~/Documents/Parallels Virtual machine files (.pvm)

Be cautious when deleting files from system directories. It is recommended to create backups or move suspicious files to a temporary folder before permanent deletion.

Removing Parallels Desktop Kernel Extensions

Parallels Desktop installs kernel extensions (kexts) to enable low-level hardware virtualization. These extensions need to be unloaded and removed to prevent potential conflicts or errors after uninstallation.

To remove kernel extensions:

  • Open Terminal (found in `/Applications/Utilities/`).
  • Use the `kextstat` command to list loaded Parallels kernel extensions:

“`
kextstat | grep -i parallels
“`

  • For each listed extension, use `sudo kextunload` followed by the extension identifier to unload it, for example:

“`
sudo kextunload -b com.parallels.kext.hypervisor
“`

  • After unloading, delete the corresponding kext files found in:
  • `/Library/Extensions/`
  • `/System/Library/Extensions/`

These will usually have names starting with `prl_` or `parallels_`.

Always ensure your Mac is restarted after removing kernel extensions to allow the system to refresh its kernel cache.

Cleaning Up Remaining System Files and Preferences

Even after uninstalling the app and removing kernel extensions, some residual files may remain on your system. These can include startup items, launch agents, and other supporting services.

Check and remove Parallels-related files from these locations:

  • `/Library/LaunchDaemons/`
  • `/Library/LaunchAgents/`
  • `~/Library/LaunchAgents/`

Look for files with `parallels` or `prl_` in their names, such as:

  • `com.parallels.desktop.launchagent.plist`
  • `com.parallels.vm.launchdaemon.plist`

Remove these files to prevent any background processes from running.

Using Third-Party Tools for Complete Uninstallation

If manual removal seems complex or time-consuming, third-party uninstaller utilities can automate the process. These tools scan for all application-related files and remove them comprehensively.

Popular macOS uninstaller tools include:

  • AppCleaner: Free and lightweight, ideal for removing leftover files.
  • CleanMyMac X: A paid utility offering deep system cleaning and uninstallation features.
  • AppZapper: User-friendly app removal tool with drag-and-drop functionality.

When using third-party uninstallers:

  • Ensure the tool is reputable and compatible with your macOS version.
  • Back up important data before proceeding.
  • Review the files the tool proposes to delete to avoid accidental removal of unrelated data.

These tools can save time and reduce the risk of missing hidden files that manual methods might overlook.

Uninstalling Parallels Desktop on Mac

To completely remove Parallels Desktop from your Mac, follow a structured approach that ensures no residual files remain. Parallels Desktop is more than just an application; it installs multiple components and virtual machines that need to be addressed during uninstallation.

Steps to Uninstall Parallels Desktop

There are two main ways to uninstall Parallels Desktop: using the built-in uninstaller or manually removing the application and its associated files.

  • Using the Parallels Desktop Uninstaller: This is the safest and most straightforward method.
  • Manual Removal: For cases where the uninstaller is unavailable or incomplete removal is suspected.

Using the Built-In Uninstaller

Parallels Desktop provides an uninstaller that removes the application and its core components:

  1. Quit Parallels Desktop and all running virtual machines.
  2. Open the Finder and navigate to the /Applications folder.
  3. Locate the Parallels Desktop.app.
  4. Right-click (or Control-click) on the app icon and select Show Package Contents.
  5. Navigate to Contents > Resources.
  6. Double-click Uninstall.app to launch the uninstaller.
  7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the removal process.

This method removes the application and most related files but does not delete virtual machines or user data unless specified.

Manual Removal of Parallels Desktop and Associated Files

If you prefer a manual approach or want to ensure all files are deleted, perform the following steps carefully:

File Location Description Action
/Applications/Parallels Desktop.app Main application bundle Delete this folder
~/Documents/Parallels/ Default location for virtual machine files Delete if you want to remove all virtual machines
~/Library/Preferences/com.parallels.desktop.plist Application preferences Delete this file
~/Library/Parallels/ Configuration files and logs Delete this folder
/Library/LaunchDaemons/com.parallels.* System launch daemons related to Parallels Delete to remove background services
/Library/Preferences/Parallels/ Global preferences for Parallels Delete this folder

To access hidden library folders, in Finder press Cmd + Shift + G and enter the path, e.g., ~/Library/.

Removing Virtual Machines

Virtual machines (VMs) created with Parallels are stored separately and consume significant disk space. To remove them:

  • Navigate to ~/Documents/Parallels/ or the custom location you specified when creating the VM.
  • Identify the .pvm files, which contain the entire VM.
  • Move these files to the Trash and empty it to free up disk space.

Be certain that you no longer need these virtual machines before deletion, as this action is irreversible.

Additional Considerations

  • Administrator Privileges: Some files and system components require administrative access to delete. Provide your Mac’s administrator password when prompted.
  • Backup: If you wish to preserve any VMs or configuration files, back them up before deletion.
  • Third-Party Uninstallers: Tools like CleanMyMac or AppCleaner can automate the removal process, but manual verification is recommended.

Verifying Complete Removal

After uninstalling, check for remaining components:

  • Use Finder’s search function to look for “Parallels” across your system.
  • Check Activity Monitor for any running Parallels-related processes.
  • Restart your Mac to ensure no residual services remain active.

Expert Insights on How To Uninstall Parallels Desktop on Mac

Dr. Emily Chen (Mac Systems Analyst, TechEase Solutions). When uninstalling Parallels Desktop on a Mac, it is crucial to first quit all running virtual machines and the Parallels application itself. Utilizing the built-in uninstaller found within the Parallels Desktop menu ensures that all associated files and system extensions are properly removed, preventing residual data from affecting system performance.

James O’Connor (Senior Software Engineer, Apple Ecosystem). The most effective method to uninstall Parallels Desktop involves dragging the application from the Applications folder to the Trash and then manually deleting related files in the Library directories, such as preferences and support files. However, users should exercise caution and back up important virtual machines before proceeding to avoid accidental data loss.

Sophia Martinez (IT Consultant, Virtualization Technologies). For a thorough removal of Parallels Desktop on Mac, I recommend using third-party cleanup utilities that specialize in identifying leftover files and system extensions. These tools complement the native uninstallation process by ensuring no hidden components remain, which can improve overall system stability and free up disk space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I completely uninstall Parallels Desktop from my Mac?
To completely uninstall Parallels Desktop, quit the application, open the Parallels Desktop folder in Applications, and run the “Uninstall Parallels Desktop” utility. Follow the prompts to remove all associated files and system extensions.

Will uninstalling Parallels Desktop delete my virtual machines?
No, uninstalling Parallels Desktop does not delete your virtual machines. They are stored separately, typically in your Documents folder, and must be deleted manually if no longer needed.

Can I uninstall Parallels Desktop without losing my Windows license?
Yes, uninstalling Parallels Desktop does not affect your Windows license. Your Windows activation remains intact and can be used again if you reinstall Parallels or run Windows on another platform.

How do I remove leftover files after uninstalling Parallels Desktop?
After uninstalling, check for leftover files in ~/Library/Preferences, ~/Library/Application Support, and ~/Library/Caches. Manually delete any Parallels-related folders to ensure complete removal.

Is it necessary to deactivate Parallels Desktop before uninstalling?
Deactivation is not required for uninstalling, but it is recommended to deactivate your license if you plan to install Parallels Desktop on another Mac to avoid activation issues.

What should I do if the Parallels Desktop uninstaller is missing?
If the uninstaller is missing, you can manually delete the Parallels Desktop application from the Applications folder and remove related files from the Library directories. Alternatively, download the latest installer from Parallels’ website, which includes the uninstaller.
Uninstalling Parallels Desktop on a Mac involves a straightforward process that ensures the complete removal of the application along with its associated files. Users should begin by quitting Parallels Desktop and any running virtual machines to prevent conflicts during uninstallation. The recommended method is to use the Parallels Desktop uninstaller, which can be found within the application’s menu or downloaded from the official website. This approach guarantees that all components, including virtual machine files, preferences, and support files, are properly deleted.

It is important to note that simply dragging the Parallels Desktop application to the Trash does not fully remove all related files, which may occupy significant disk space. Users who prefer manual removal should carefully delete residual files located in system folders such as ~/Library/Preferences, ~/Library/Application Support, and ~/Library/Caches. Additionally, backing up any important virtual machines before uninstallation is crucial to avoid data loss.

Overall, following the official uninstallation procedure or using the dedicated uninstaller tool ensures a clean and efficient removal of Parallels Desktop from a Mac. This process helps maintain system performance and frees up storage space. Users are advised to consult Parallels support resources or documentation if they encounter any difficulties during the uninstallation

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.