How to Uninstall Drivers on Mac: Complete Guide
In this blog, we will discuss how you can easily uninstall drivers on a Mac using a manual method and app.
Drivers on Mac! Many computer users have rarely ever heard the two terms together. That’s because drivers are mostly associated with Windows PCs, not Mac.
To be honest, macOS doesn’t actually require driver software to support hardware functions. Mac gadgets have built-in solutions to integrate with hardware, so no need to install third-party driver software.
However, there are still a few operations that require drivers on Mac, especially when you want to use third-party hardware devices. And, you’ll also need to keep drivers updated to run those operations on your device. Importantly, once they become obsolete, you have to delete them to free up space on your disk.
The TC experts have compiled this guide to demonstrate how to uninstall drivers on Mac correctly. So, you resolve problems that outdated drivers cause on your Mac and free up space on your drive. Let’s get going.
Example of Drivers on Mac
macOS is integrated with almost all the necessary software to smoothly run operating systems. Such as printers, Mac comes with a technology called AirPrint that lets you support printers without drivers.
But, for printers and scanners that don’t support AirPrint, you have to download the necessary drivers to use them. For lots of other hardware like graphics tablets and game controllers, you also need third-party drivers.
Additionally, you have to constantly update these drivers to ensure that they keep on working with the latest macOS versions. But, when you no longer use hardware devices, or manufacturers stop making them, drivers will become obsolete for you. In that case, it’s ideal for uninstalling drivers to free up space on your Mac disk.
How to Uninstall Drivers on Mac?
Once you have an obsolete driver on your Mac, you have two options to uninstall it — manually or with CleanMyMac X. Let’s us demonstrate both the methods so you can decide which one is better for you:
How to Uninstall Drivers Manually on Mac
Before uninstalling old drivers on your Mac, you have to locate them. Some hardware drivers are added to System Preferences and some in the Application folder. Many drivers also put files in other folders in the Library folder or the system Library folders. Usually, you will find driver files in the Application Support, LaunchAgents, and System Preferences sections.
To manually uninstall every driver on your Mac, you have to follow different steps. So, we are using the printer driver as an illustration to demonstrate the process:
- Go to the Apple Menu, select the System Preferences.
- Next, click on the Print & Fax.
- Highlight your printer files, click on the ‘-‘ button to remove them from the Printers list, and click OK.
- Now, go and open the Hard Drive.
- Navigate to Library > Printers.
- Select all the files labeled with your printer’s name and move them to trash.
- Empty the Trash and restart your Mac.
- That’s it! All your printer driver files are uninstalled from your device that you can reinstall by visiting the appropriate printer model page.
The manual driver uninstall has a small shortcoming — finding drivers. As driver files are scattered in different locations on your Mac, it is hard to locate them manually. So, locating every file and deleting it is a tricky part of this method. Thankfully, there is an easier solution available.
How to Uninstall Drivers with CleanMyMac X on Mac
CleanMyMac X is a premium cleaning tool for Mac devices. The software can free up gigabytes of space and speed up your Mac in one go. Meanwhile, protecting your system from malware and providing an ultra online security shield. Overall, it is the perfect application to uninstall unwanted apps and files on your Mac.
You can even try CleanMyMac X for free before getting the full version. Importantly, identifying all the unnecessary driver files and deleting them is a one-click process with CleanMyMac X. Just follow these steps:
- Download & install CleanMyMac X. (Note: This is an affiliate link but it does not compromise the authenticity of this blog)
- Ensure that you are using macOS 10.10+ or higher.
- Click on the Download Trial button and then mount to downloaded CleanMyMac.dmg.
- Now, drag the CleanMyMac X icon to the Applications folder as per the on-screen instructions.
- Go to the Application folder to launch CleanMyMac X on your Mac.
- Once the software is launched, click Activate in the upper right-hand corner.
- Next, you’ll be asked to enter Activation Number, or you can resume with the free trial. To get an Activation Number, click on Buy License and then Enter Activation Number.
- Now, CleanMyMac X is ready to uninstall drivers on your Mac, click the CleanMyMac X icon.
- Select the Uninstaller tab in the sidebar and inspect the list of apps.
- You have to select the driver that you want to uninstall and click Uninstall. If you don’t find the driver in the list of apps, you can click on the Optimization tab to search for drivers and delete them.
Your work is done here. CleanMyMac X will now automatically delete all driver files from your system. Not only that, but it can also remove extensions or kext files related to the driver. Simply choose Extensions > Preference panes and delete driver extensions.
Parting Thoughts
Now, you know how to uninstall drivers on Mac manually and with CleanMyMac X. It’s completely up to you which method you use to uninstall drivers on your Mac.
But, when you are looking for a fast and effective solution, CleanMyMac X is a better option. If you don’t have time to locate different driver files on your disk and fix your crashing Mac, this tool can instantly locate and remove them for you.
Additionally, CleanMyMac X promises 5x more free disk space, 2.5x speedier app launch, and 4.5x faster boot time. So, with a tool, you are gaining so many more benefits!
However, the final choice is yours. In our opinion, try both the manual method and the CleanMyMac X tool to uninstall drivers on your Mac and make the right decision. And, don’t forget to share your experience with us!
Watch This Video On How To Uninstall Drivers On Mac
Popular Post
Recent Post
CCleaner Vs Advanced Systemcare: Complete Comparison Guide
Explore a comprehensive comparison between CCleaner VS Advanced SystemCare, two leading system optimization tools. Discover their features, functionalities, and performance to make an informed choice.
Top 10 CCleaner For Mac Alternatives In 2023
Discover the top 10 CCleaner alternatives for Mac in 2023. Explore a range of efficient, user-friendly programs like CCleaner for Mac tailored for a seamless macOS experience.
Top 15 Free Best Live Wallpaper Apps for PC [Windows 10 & 11]
Discover the top 15 free live wallpaper apps for Windows 10 & 11 PC! Elevate your desktop experience with these dynamic and stunning wallpapers. Find the perfect app to personalize your desktop.
Unknown USB Device (Device Descriptor Request Failed): 11 Ways to Fix
How to fix Unknown USB Device error which is also famous as Device Descriptor Request Failed error on Windows 11 and Windows 10 PC.
Content Writing: Exploring Different Types, Benefits and Risks
When you secure college admission to pursue a degree or diploma of your choice, what often comes to your mind? Except for those who got a chance to study in a specific university due to talent, especially sports, a significant proportion of students will want to land a well-paying job, whereas a few might opt […]
“The Request Could not be Performed Because of an I/O Device Error” [9 ways To Fix]
Got an I/O device error? find 9 ways to fix the request could not be performed because of an I/O device error.
Windows Has Stopped this Device because it has Reported Problems (Code 43)” [9 Ways to Fix]
Fix the error “Windows Has Stopped this Device because it has Reported Problems” or Code 43 error on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
10 Best Script Writing Software (Free and Paid) To Use In 2024
Here are the best script writing software which can help you write amazing stuff. These software to write scripts can make the process convenient for you.
CleanMyMac Black Friday Sale – Get 30% Off on November 24 Only!
n: CleanMyMac X is offering an exclusive 30% discount for Black Friday only. Get the top Mac optimization software at an unbeatable price. Learn about the powerful features of CleanMyMac X and why you should grab this 1-day deal.
The Application Was Unable To Start Correctly (0xc0000005): 8 Solutions
Unsure when it’s time to seek professional help for resolving the application error (0xc0000005)? This blog post has got you covered with clear guidance and solutions.