When you install a VPN service, it releases data to different parts of your device. Some Virtual Private Networks, even after being removed from the device, retain some login data. For example, your username and password may be kept in case you want to install the VPN again later.
This stored data may cause some conflicts on your device if you install a new VPN. Or you may still want to delete any data linked to a service you no longer use.
In this article, we explain how to uninstall a VPN from your device by deleting any data associated with it.
Why Uninstall a VPN from Your Device
The main issue with data from one uninstalled VPN is that it might conflict with another.
This can cause several errors, one of the most common being the TAP driver conflict. This type of conflict renders the connection unusable. Therefore, when installing a VPN, it is important to ensure that any data from previous VPN software has been properly deleted.
Our team continually tests VPN connections, and many times we have had to install and uninstall a VPN over and over again before we can get it to work properly. In most cases, the problem was due to the fact that there were still “parts” of previously used software hidden inside our devices.
Every user of VPN services must pay attention to these details which allow the VPN to function in optimal conditions.
When You Need to Uninstall a VPN
If you are considering purchasing a VPN, you may find that you have to try several services before making your final choice.
To this end, many VPNs offer free trial periods or money-back formulas, such as those offered by Fastest VPN, which are great for finalizing your decision.
To perform these free trials you need to install different software on your device. If you decide that a VPN doesn’t suit you, the first thing you do is remove the old software to install a new one for you to try. You may find yourself repeating this operation several times.
However, installing and uninstalling several VPNs could lead you to have data stored on your device which could cause conflicts and problems.
As a general rule, remember that it would be recommended not to install more than one VPN software at a time, as the chances of conflicts occurring are much higher than you think.
If you are looking for a reliable VPN and want to save time, we recommend that you target these providers:
Sometimes, however, you may want to uninstall a VPN just for the sake of money.
Maybe you have found a VPN with good performance but cheaper price like Fastest VPN, or you no longer want to pay a very low monthly subscription.
We never recommend using the internet without a VPN, but if you want to uninstall VPN for purely economic reasons, could you consider Free VPNs?
While they’re never a great way to protect your privacy, there are some free VPNs that work well if you don’t have any special needs. We have selected the best tested and working Free VPNs in this article.
How to Uninstall A VPN from Your Device
The uninstallation procedures are quite simple. You can find programs for Mac and Windows that allow you to delete any data correctly.
Furthermore, these programs are significantly more effective than the ones provided by your operating system.
Windows
How to uninstall a VPN on Windows
If you have a Windows computer, our advice is to use Revo Uninstaller (also available in a free version). This program is much faster and more efficient than the classic Windows uninstaller, accessible from the control panel.
It should be noted that this program, even in a free version, allows you to find folders, files and registry changes that are not deleted after uninstallation. For this reason, if you use Revo Uninstaller to uninstall the VPN, you will be able to clean your device thoroughly.
After you have downloaded and installed this program, all you have to do is click on the VPN you want to uninstall and hit uninstall. Subsequently, the software will automatically scan your device for extra data to remove associated with the uninstalled VPN.
Windows Manual Procedure
If you don’t want to use additional software, you can always follow the manual procedure below:
- Access the Network and Sharing Center
- Click on Change adapter settings
- Right- click on the VPN and select Delete
Mac OS X
How to uninstall a VPN on Mac OS
If you use a MAC OS X computer, we recommend using AppCleaner (free use license) or CleanApp for Mac (paid use license). While AppCleaner is enough to wipe out most of a VPN’s data, if you want to be completely sure you remove everything, you won’t find anything better than CleanApp which scans your MAC entirely.
Mac OS X Manual Procedure
If you don’t want to use additional software, you can follow the manual steps below:
- Access System Preferences
- Click on Profiles
- Click the minus sign on the VPN you want to remove
- Enter the admin password to confirm
Conclusion
Uninstalling a VPN from your device is quick and easy. As we have indicated in this article, some files that are left on your device may cause conflicts while using a new does hulu work overseas.
Keeping your device clean will allow you to use any new VPN service without running into problems.
For any problems with the guide, leave a comment and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Also don’t forget to check out our best VPNs, available at special prices for Best VPN readers:
