How to uninstall Proton VPN on a Mac, including its system extensions
Proton VPN installs system extensions and a VPN configuration as well as the app. How to remove all three on a Mac, and check nothing is left running.
How do I uninstall Proton VPN on a Mac?
- Disconnect and quit Proton VPN from its menu bar icon.
- Move ProtonVPN from Applications to the Trash. Ours, version 6.5.1, was 233 MB. macOS may ask for your password to remove its system extensions.
- Open System Settings, VPN, and remove any Proton VPN configuration left in the list.
- Check in Terminal that the extensions are gone:
systemextensionsctl list.
What did Proton VPN install besides the app?
Two system extensions, shown by systemextensionsctl list on our Mac as Proton VPN WireGuard and Proton VPN Split Tunneling, both activated and enabled. System extensions run outside the app, which is why removing them is a separate step that needs your password.
Why is my internet not working after uninstalling a VPN?
A VPN configuration or DNS setting was left behind. Remove it in System Settings, VPN, then turn Wi-Fi off and on. If a proxy was set, check System Settings, Network, your connection, Details, Proxies.
Docker installs helpers in a similar way: uninstall Docker.
Common questions
How do I completely remove Proton VPN from my Mac?
Quit it, move it to the Trash and approve removing its system extensions, then delete any leftover configuration in System Settings, VPN.
How do I check for leftover VPN extensions on Mac?
Run systemextensionsctl list in Terminal.