How to Uninstall VirtualBox | Complete Removal Guide

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🤔 Why Is It Hard to Uninstall VirtualBox?

VirtualBox is a widely used, open-source virtualization platform that allows users to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on a single machine. While it’s easy to install and configure, many users struggle with completely removing VirtualBox due to:

• Complex installation structure with multiple components (kernel modules, services, GUI tools)
• Leftover virtual machine files and snapshots
• Persistent registry or preference entries after uninstallation
• Background drivers and network adapters that remain active
• Incomplete removal through standard OS uninstallers

These leftover elements can cause system conflicts, take up disk space, and even trigger errors during reinstallation.

In this article, we’ll explore why VirtualBox doesn’t always uninstall cleanly, provide step-by-step methods to remove it fully, and give you the success rate of each approach. We’ll also review top uninstall tools — highlighting PerfectUninstaller as the most effective solution for deep cleaning stubborn software like VirtualBox.

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📦 What Is VirtualBox?

Oracle VM VirtualBox is a powerful x86 virtualization software developed by Oracle Corporation. It enables users to create and manage virtual machines (VMs) running various operating systems such as Windows, Linux, Solaris, and more.

Key features include:

• Snapshot-based restore points
• Shared folders between host and guest OS
• USB device support in VMs
• Bridged networking and port forwarding
• Seamless integration with development environments

During installation, VirtualBox sets up:

• Core application files
• System services and kernel extensions
• Network adapters
• Configuration and user-specific data
• Virtual hard disks (.vdi, .vmdk, etc.)

Due to its layered architecture, a simple drag-to-trash or basic uninstall won’t remove everything.

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🔧 Step-by-Step Ways to Uninstall VirtualBox

✅ Method 1: Use Built-in Uninstaller (Windows) / Move to Trash (macOS)

Success Rate: 50%

Windows:

1. Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features
2. Select Oracle VM VirtualBox, then click Uninstall

macOS:

1. Open Applications
2. Drag VirtualBox.app to the Trash

📌 Note: This removes only the main app — not configuration files, VMs, or drivers.

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✅ Method 2: Remove Virtual Machine Files Manually

Success Rate: 70%

VirtualBox stores VMs separately from the app itself.

Steps:

1. Navigate to your VirtualBox VM folder (default locations):

• Windows: C:\Users\YourName\VirtualBox VMs
• macOS/Linux: /Users/YourName/VirtualBox VMs or ~/VirtualBox VMs

1. Delete all VM-related folders and files

💡 Tip: These may contain large .vbox, .vdi, and .vmdk files — back them up if needed.

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✅ Method 3: Clear Preference & Configuration Files

Success Rate: 80%

Windows:

1. Press Win + R, type %APPDATA%\VirtualBox, and delete contents
2. Also check: C:\Program Files\Oracle\VirtualBox

macOS:

1. Press Cmd + Shift + G in Finder and enter:

• ~/Library/Application Support/VirtualBox
• ~/Library/Preferences/org.virtualbox.VBoxLauncher.plist
• ~/Library/Saved Application State/org.virtualbox.VirtualBox.savedState

🛠 These folders may contain logs, settings, and licensing information.

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✅ Method 4: Remove Kernel Extensions & Services (Advanced)

Success Rate: 90%

Windows:

1. Open Device Manager
2. Expand Network Adapters
3. Right-click any Oracle VM VirtualBox adapters and select Uninstall
4. Run command prompt as admin and enter:

   sc delete "VBoxDrv"

macOS:

1. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Full Disk Access
2. Remove VirtualBox if listed
3. Open Terminal and enter:

   sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxDrv
   sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxUSB
   sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxNetFlt
   sudo kextunload -b org.virtualbox.kext.VBoxNetAdp

4. Then delete the kext files:

   sudo rm -rf /Library/Extensions/VBox*.kext

⚠️ Warning: Always back up before deleting kernel modules.

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✅ Method 5: Revoke Accessibility & Security Permissions (macOS Only)

Success Rate: 95%

VirtualBox requires special permissions to operate.

Steps:

1. Open System Settings > Privacy & Security > Accessibility
2. Find VirtualBox and click – to remove it
3. Repeat under Full Disk Access and Screen Recording sections

📌 This ensures no background processes continue running.

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🛠️ Top Tools That Help Uninstall VirtualBox

Tool Name	Description	Success Rate
PerfectUninstaller	Deep cleans all traces including registry, cache, logs, and system services	⭐ 98%
Revo Uninstaller	Removes leftover files and tracks registry changes	⭐ 85%
IObit Uninstaller	Offers forced uninstall and browser cleanup	⭐ 80%
Geek Uninstaller	Lightweight and fast removal tool	⭐ 75%

🌟 Why PerfectUninstaller Stands Out

Unlike generic uninstallers, PerfectUninstaller performs a deep scan that removes every trace of VirtualBox — including:

• Hidden preference files
• Cache and log entries
• Kernel extensions and daemons
• Virtual machine metadata
• Accessibility and security permissions

It supports forced uninstallation of stubborn entries and features an intuitive interface perfect for both beginners and advanced users.

🔗 Download PerfectUninstaller Here

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✅ Summary: Best Way to Remove VirtualBox

Here’s how to choose the right method based on your experience level:

• Beginner: Use PerfectUninstaller alone for full cleanup
• Intermediate: Combine manual file deletion + built-in uninstaller
• Advanced: Use terminal commands, driver removal, and PerfectUninstaller

Always remember to restart your computer after uninstalling to ensure all changes take effect.

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💡 Final Pro Tip

To keep your system clean and efficient:

• Always read installation steps carefully — avoid bundled software
• Set up a scheduled maintenance routine using trusted tools like PerfectUninstaller
• Regularly scan for leftover drivers, toolbars, and unused programs