How to uninstall Microsoft Office on Mac step by step

uninstall Microsoft Office on a Mac can seem like a complicated process for many users. Contrary to what happens on Windows, where we have a specific tool to uninstall the software, in macOS this procedure tends to be more manual. However, with the right guide, it is a process that you can carry out without major complications.

Below, we'll explore all the methods, steps, and recommendations to completely remove Microsoft Office from your Mac. This includes removing both the core applications and any hidden remnants on your system. If you're looking to free up space or fix Office issues, this information is for you.

Steps to uninstall Office applications

Before you begin, make sure you have closed all Office applications and check if you have administrator privileges on your Mac.

1. Access the Applications folder: From Finder, go to the “Applications” folder. Here you will find all the Office programs installed as Word, Excel, Power point, Outlook and any other.
2. Select applications: Press the key Command and click on each of the Office applications to select them. This includes any additional tools such as OneDrive o OneNote.
3. Move apps to the Trash: Once selected, drag all the apps to the Trash or right-click and select “Move to Trash.”

Delete related service files

Even after removing the applications, some related files remain on your system. To remove them completely:

1. Access the Library folder: Open Finder, tap Command + Shift + G and writes ~/Library in the box that appears. This will take you to the user's Library folder.
2. Delete folders in Containers: Open the “Containers” folder inside the Library and look for Office-related folders. These usually include names like:
   • com.microsoft.word
   • com.microsoft.excel
   • com.microsoft.PowerPoint
   • com.microsoft.outlook
   • com.microsoft.Office365ServiceV2

   Using Ctrl + click, select these folders and move to the trash.

3. Delete folders in Group Containers: Go back to the Library and locate the “Group Containers” folder. Here you will find related files such as:
   • UBF8T346G9.ms
   • UBF8T346G9.Office
   • UBF8T346G9.OfficeOsfWebHost

   Move these folders to the Trash.

Removing licenses and preferences

To ensure that no trace of your Office licenses or settings remains, follow these additional steps:

1. Delete the preferences files: In the “Preferences” folder inside the Library, delete files such as:
   • com.microsoft.office.plist
   • com.microsoft.word.plist
   • com.microsoft.excel.plist
   • com. microsoft. PowerPoint. plist
2. Use the license removal tool: If your version of Office includes a subscription or managed license, Microsoft offers an official license removal tool. Download it from their support page, run it, and follow the instructions to remove any trace of the license.

Remove shortcuts from the Dock

If you have shortcuts for Office apps in your Dock, you'll need to remove them, too. Right-click each icon, select "Options," then "Remove from Dock."

Additional recommendations

• Backup your data: Before you delete Office, make sure you have saved all important documents. If you use Outlook, make sure to back up your emails.
• Empty the bin: Once you've moved everything related to Office to the Trash, empty the Trash to free up space on your hard drive.
• Restart your Mac: After completing all the steps, restart your computer to ensure that any residual processes or files are properly removed.

The process to uninstall Microsoft Office on a Mac may seem tedious, but by following the steps detailed here you will achieve a complete removal. Whether it's due to errors, lack of compatibility, or simply to free up space, you now have the tools necessary to carry out the process effectively.

Isaac

Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.