Note: The Private Internet Access (PIA) app has a built-in uninstaller that you can use to uninstall the app. To use it, follow these steps.
This guide will help you remove the Private Internet Access (PIA) app using Terminal.
Important: Moving the app to the Trash removes the app itself, but not the system service PIA installs in the background. If you want to completely remove the app, follow these steps:
- Open the PIA app and disconnect if you have an active connection. Then, select the three dots (⋯) > Quit to close the app.
- Open Terminal, and run the following command to stop the PIA system service:
sudo launchctl unload /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.privateinternetaccess.vpn.daemon.plist
- When prompted, enter your Mac administrator password, then press Return. This is your Mac password, not your PIA password.
Note: The password does not appear as you type, which is normal. This is a security feature that prevents anyone watching your screen from seeing how many characters your password contains.
- Run the following command to remove the system service:
sudo rm /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.privateinternetaccess.vpn.daemon.plist
- In Finder, open the Applications folder and drag Private Internet Access to the Trash.
- Control-click the Trash and select Empty Trash to permanently remove the app.
- Restart your Mac to complete the removal.
To reinstall the app, see macOS - Installing the PIA App.