How to Uninstall Programs in Linux: Effective Methods for Any Distribution

Last update: 25/02/2025
Author Isaac
  • Linux It has multiple systems and package managers, such as APT, Snap, and Flatpak, each with their own uninstallation method.
  • El terminal It is the most efficient tool to remove software, allowing full control over packages and dependencies.
  • Graphical environments such as the Ubuntu Software Center or Synaptic facilitate uninstallation without the need to use commands.
  • Completely removing a program involves deleting configuration files and clean up unused dependencies.

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If you use Linux frequently, you will have noticed that installing and uninstalling programs works differently than what we are used to on other systems such as WindowsInstead of a single installation format, Linux has multiple package systems and managers, which can make removing software a different task depending on the distribution you use.

In this article you will learn the different methods for uninstall programs in linux, either using the terminal or graphical tools. We will explain how to do this on Debian-based distributions (Ubuntu, Linux Mint), In Red Hat (Fedora, CentOS) and in Arch Linux, as well as in other complementary systems such as Snap y Flatpak.

Understanding Linux Package Systems and Managers

To uninstall a program in Linux, the first thing we need to understand is what package system and package manager our distribution uses. Package systems are the formats in which the software is distributed, and package managers are the tools used to install, update and remove these programs.

  • Debian-based distributions (Ubuntu, Linux Mint, etc.): use the package system APT and the commands apt o apt-get.
  • Red Hat-based distributions (Fedora, CentOS, etc.): use the format RPM and package managers like dnf o yum.
  • Arch Linux-based distributions (Manjaro, EndeavourOS, etc.): use the package system TAR and the manager pacman.
  • Complementary systems , the Snap y Flatpak allow you to install software independently of the traditional package system.
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How to uninstall programs from the terminal

The fastest and most reliable method to remove software in Linux is via the terminal. Depending on your distribution, the command will vary:

Removing programs in Debian, Ubuntu and derivatives

If you are using a Debian-based distribution, the most common command to uninstall a program is:

sudo apt remove nombredelpaquete

This command removes the program but leaves its configuration files. If you want to remove it completely, use:

sudo apt purge nombredelpaquete

Removing Programs in Fedora, CentOS and Red Hat

On Red Hat systems, the commands to remove software depend on the manager used:

sudo yum remove nombredelpaquete

Or on Fedora:

sudo dnf remove nombredelpaquete

Removing programs in Arch Linux and derivatives

If you are using Arch Linux or a distribution based on it, the command is:

sudo pacman -Rs nombredelpaquete

Parameter -Rs It also takes care of removing dependencies that are not necessary.

Uninstalling Snap and Flatpak packages

Some applications do not depend on the distribution's packaging system, but are installed via Snap o Flatpak.

Remove Snap Programs

To uninstall a Snap, use:

sudo snap remove nombredelpaquete

Remove Flatpak Programs

To uninstall a Flatpak, use:

flatpak uninstall nombredelpaquete

How to uninstall programs with graphical tools

If you prefer not to use the terminal, you can uninstall programs with graphical tools such as:

Ubuntu Software Center

  • Open the Software Center.
  • Find the program you want to remove.
  • Click “Delete” and confirm the action.

Synaptic package manager

  • Install Synaptic if you don't have it already: sudo apt install synaptic
  • Open Synaptic, find the package and check to remove.
  • Apply the changes.

Remove programs manually

In some cases, you may need to remove programs manually if they were installed without a package manager. To do so:

  • Locate the folder where the program was installed, for example in /opt o /usr/local.
  • Delete the folder with:
    sudo rm -rf /ruta/del/programa
  • Delete configuration files in your home folder:
    rm -rf ~/.nombre_del_programa

Recommendations to keep your system clean

After uninstalling programs, it is advisable to clean unnecessary dependencies:

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sudo apt autoremove

You can also use deborphan to find orphaned packages and remove them with:

sudo apt remove --purge $(deborphan)

Mastering software management in Linux will allow you to keep your system organized and free of unnecessary programs. By following these methods, you will be able to eliminate any unnecessary programs. enforcement efficiently and without complications.