How to Uninstall League of Legends: Step-by-Step Guide

Uninstalling League of Legends might feel like a daunting task for those not familiar with software maintenance, but it’s straightforward once the right steps are clear. Whether it’s to clear up space, improve device performance, or take a break from gaming, removing the game from a computer doesn’t have to be a hassle. Simply accessing the uninstall option through the Control Panel on Windows or deleting the application from the Applications folder on Mac will effectively remove League of Legends from your system.

Although the uninstall process is relatively simple, ensuring that all leftover files are also removed can be crucial for maintaining system performance. Users may choose to check specific directories for residual files and folders that could be occupying space unnecessarily. Additionally, automated software tools can help in detecting and cleaning up these remnants efficiently.

Exploration of these methods provides insights into maintaining an optimized and organized computer system. For those interested in reinstalling at a later date, understanding this process means they can confidently manage their software without any lingering issues. The assured performance and space management pays off, allowing users to get the most out of their devices.

Understanding the Uninstallation Process

Uninstalling League of Legends can be a straightforward task, but it requires a few important steps. Before starting, make sure all game-related files and applications are closed.

To begin, access the Control Panel on your computer. Navigate to Programs and Features and locate League of Legends in the list of installed programs. Select it and click on the Uninstall button.

Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the process. This will remove the core game files from your system, but some residual files may remain.

For a thorough removal, check the following directories and delete any leftover files:

C:\Riot Games
C:\Users[Your Username]\AppData\Local
C:\Users[Your Username]\AppData\Roaming

Deleting these files can help free up space and avoid software conflicts. Remember, some hidden files and folders might need to be made visible through your file explorer settings.

Once the files are deleted, restarting the computer is recommended. This ensures that all changes are applied and clears any temporary files still in use.

If using a third-party uninstaller, make sure it’s reputable to avoid malicious software. Third-party tools can sometimes offer more comprehensive removal actions by tracking down all related files automatically.

After uninstallation, you can reinstall League of Legends anytime if desired. Simply visit the official website and download the latest version for your system.

Preparation for Uninstallation

Before uninstalling League of Legends, individuals should focus on backing up their data and ensuring all account information is securely stored. These steps help prevent data loss and ensure account security during the uninstallation process.

Backing up Data

To prevent loss of customized game settings or skins, backup any important files. Players should locate the game directory and copy relevant files onto an external drive or cloud storage. This includes in-game settings, key binds, and configuration files.

Taking screenshots of skin inventories or important milestones can also be helpful. Storing screenshots ensures that players have a record of their achievements and purchases. For additional security, consider saving these copies on more than one platform.

Ensuring Account Information

Before uninstalling, make sure all account credentials are safe and accessible. It’s important to have a secure record of your login details, as these will be required for any future access or reinstallation of the game.

Write down the username, password, and any security questions linked to the account. Updating recovery options such as an email address or phone number is advisable, ensuring that account recovery processes can be smoothly handled if needed later on.

Uninstalling League of Legends from Windows

Uninstalling League of Legends from a Windows machine can be accomplished in several ways. These methods include using the Control Panel for a standard approach, accessing the Settings menu for a more modern interface, or utilizing third-party uninstallation software for enhanced removal options.

Via the Control Panel

To uninstall League of Legends using the Control Panel, the user should first open this system utility. Navigating to ‘Programs and Features’ is the next essential step. Once there, a list of installed programs will display, allowing the user to locate League of Legends.

Selecting League of Legends from this list, the ‘Uninstall’ button becomes active. Clicking this button initiates the uninstallation process. A few on-screen instructions appear, guiding the user through the removal steps. Patience is key, as this process may take a few minutes.

Once complete, it’s advisable to restart the system. This ensures that all files are properly removed from the hard drive. Revisiting the ‘Programs and Features’ list can confirm the success of the uninstallation, as League of Legends should no longer appear.

Using the Settings Menu

The Settings menu provides an alternative, user-friendly route to uninstall League of Legends. To begin, access the menu by clicking the Start button and selecting ‘Settings,’ or use the shortcut keys Win + I.

Within Settings, find ‘Apps’ to see a list of installed applications on the computer. Scroll through this list to locate League of Legends. Clicking on it reveals an option to ‘Uninstall.’ Follow the prompts that appear on screen to complete the task.

This procedure is straightforward and caters to users familiar with Windows 10 or 11 interfaces. After completing these actions, restarting the computer guarantees that the software is completely removed, freeing up storage space.

Third-Party Uninstallation Software

For those seeking a thorough removal of League of Legends, third-party uninstallation software might be the preferred choice. These programs go beyond standard methods, targeting residual files that could remain even after a typical uninstall.

Popular tools include Revo Uninstaller and IObit Uninstaller. Installing one of these programs, users can scan for League of Legends and initiate its removal. The software typically provides an option to clean registry files and leftover components.

While effective, caution is recommended, as these utilities modify system settings and should be used by those comfortable with advanced controls. Choosing reputable software is crucial to avoid potential complications.

Uninstalling League of Legends from macOS

To remove League of Legends from a Mac, users can rely on two main methods. One method involves using the Finder application to delete files manually. The other involves using Terminal commands for those who prefer a command-line approach.

Using Finder

Open the Finder application on the macOS desktop.

Navigate to the Applications folder. Locate the League of Legends application and drag it to the Trash.

Next, access Finder’s Go menu, selecting Go to Folder. Enter ~/Library/ in the dialog box.

In the Library folder, search for the Application Support and Preferences folders, removing any League of Legends-related files.

Lastly, don’t forget to empty the Trash to permanently delete these files.

Terminal Commands

For users comfortable with terminal commands, begin by opening the Terminal application.

Enter the command to remove the main application: sudo rm -rf /Applications/League\ of\ Legends.app.

Access the user’s Library folder by typing: cd ~/Library/, and execute sudo rm -rf 'Application Support/League of Legends' and sudo rm -rf 'Preferences/com.riotgames.LeagueofLegends.plist' to delete all related files.

These commands will completely remove League of Legends files, ensuring the software is fully uninstalled.

Post-Uninstallation Steps

Upon uninstalling League of Legends, it’s important to ensure that no leftover files remain and that the system is clean. This involves removing residual files and cleaning the registry, particularly for Windows users.

Removing Residual Files

Even after uninstalling, some League of Legends files might stay on the system. These can occupy valuable space or cause issues when installing new games. Users should navigate to the installation directory, typically found in C:\Riot Games\, and delete any remaining League-related folders. Additionally, checking the AppData folder, usually hidden by default, can help clear any leftover data.

In Windows, the AppData path can be accessed by typing %appdata% in the File Explorer’s address bar. They should check all subdirectories (Local, LocalLow, Roaming) for any League of Legends folders and remove them. Mac users can navigate to ~/Library/Application Support/ and delete any associated files. This ensures a clean removal and prevents potential conflicts.

Registry Cleanup for Windows

To further ensure that all traces of League of Legends are removed from a Windows computer, cleaning the registry is a necessary step. It’s important to proceed with caution, as incorrect changes here can affect system stability. Users can access the Registry Editor by typing regedit in the search bar.

In the Registry Editor, they should look for entries related to League of Legends under HKEY_CURRENT_USER and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE. A careful examination and removal of any pertinent entries help in full clean-up. Using a dedicated registry cleaning tool can also simplify this task, providing a safer option for those less familiar with manual registry edits. This will finalize the uninstallation process.

Troubleshooting Uninstallation Issues

Uninstalling League of Legends can sometimes be met with errors. Knowing common errors and how to handle support inquiries helps ensure a smoother process.

Common Errors

During uninstallation, users may encounter specific errors. Error 001 indicates corrupted files. To fix this, use the Hextech Repair Tool to fix corrupted files first. Restart the uninstallation process afterward.

Another frequent problem is permission errors. Ensure the user has administrative rights on their computer. Running the installer or uninstaller as an administrator can often resolve this issue.

Issues with missing files may appear, especially if file paths are modified. Restoring default settings or paths in League of Legends before uninstallation might help. These steps are critical for resolving these errors.

Contacting Support

Contacting Riot Games support can provide additional assistance if troubleshooting independently proves unsuccessful. Before reaching out, collect relevant information: Game version, operating system, and detailed descriptions of the issues.

Use the support portal for faster assistance. Attaching the logs from the Hextech Repair Tool might expedite troubleshooting. Be concise and clear in describing the problem to achieve more efficient support.

Listed formats in their official contact page can assist in streamlining the ticket submission. Familiarity with the tools and resources they provide can significantly decrease wait times, ensuring faster resolutions.

Alternative Methods

There are two main alternative methods to uninstall League of Legends if standard uninstallation fails: using System Restore or Recovery to revert the computer to a previous state, and performing a Manual Uninstallation, which involves removing files and registry entries related to the game.

System Restore or Recovery

System Restore or Recovery can be used when problems arise after installing or updating software. It is useful for situations where uninstalling League of Legends through traditional methods proves difficult.

To initiate a System Restore, access the Recovery options in the Control Panel. Select a restore point created before the League of Legends installation. Follow the instructions presented to complete the process.

This method effectively removes installed files and configuration changes made by the software. However, it can also affect other software and settings added after the restore point. Users should back up important files before proceeding.

Manual Uninstallation

Manual uninstallation involves deleting game files and registry entries related to League of Legends. It is recommended for users comfortable with navigating system files and registries.

Begin by locating the installation folder, generally within C:\Program Files or C:\Riot Games. Delete the League of Legends folder. Next, access the Windows Registry Editor by typing regedit in the Run dialog.

Search for and delete any registry entries associated with League of Legends. The paths generally include entries under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE and HKEY_CURRENT_USER. Exercise caution to avoid removing unrelated entries, as this can affect system functionality.

While effective, manual uninstallation requires users to proceed with caution, as incorrect actions may lead to system errors.

Final Considerations

Having successfully uninstalled League of Legends, it is important to ensure that no residual files remain. Stray files can occupy storage space and may potentially cause issues if you plan to reinstall the game later.

Users should navigate to their file explorer and search for “League of Legends” to manually delete any leftover files. This can help free up additional space on their hard drive.

For those looking to reinstall, verifying the system meets the necessary requirements is essential. Re-downloading the latest installer ensures an up-to-date version and should help avoid compatibility issues.

Backup Considerations:

Game saves are typically stored online.
Always double-check to ensure progress is saved.

Technical Support:
For any issues during uninstallation, accessing the Riot Games support website can offer more detailed guidance.

It’s crucial to periodically review installed programs and games on one’s system to maintain optimal performance. Removing games no longer played is a proactive step toward this goal.