Incorrect uninstallation methods

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 13 views

How to Uninstall AdGuard Network System Extension - Version 2.8.1: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you struggling to uninstall the AdGuard Network System Extension, version 2.8.1, from your Mac? Despite following the official guide and researching online, you're still facing issues with its removal. You're not alone. Many users have reported similar problems, with the extension reappearing in EtreCheck reports even after attempting to uninstall it. In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive guide on how to successfully remove the AdGuard Network System Extension, version 2.8.1, from your Mac.

Before we dive into the uninstallation process, it's essential to understand what the AdGuard Network System Extension is and why it's causing issues. The AdGuard Network System Extension is a kernel extension that allows AdGuard to filter network traffic on your Mac. While it's designed to improve your online experience by blocking ads and tracking, it can sometimes cause problems if not installed or uninstalled correctly.

Why Can't I Uninstall the AdGuard Network System Extension?

There are several reasons why you might be struggling to uninstall the AdGuard Network System Extension. Some possible causes include:

Incorrect uninstallation methods: Following the official guide or online tutorials might not be enough to completely remove the extension.
System extension conflicts: Other system extensions or kernel extensions might be interfering with the uninstallation process.
Corrupted system files: Damaged or corrupted system files can prevent the extension from being uninstalled.

To successfully uninstall the AdGuard Network System Extension, version 2.8.1, follow these steps:

Step 1: Disable the AdGuard Network System Extension

Open the System Preferences: Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
Click on Security & Privacy: In the System Preferences window, click on the Security & Privacy icon.
Click on the General Tab: In the Security & Privacy window, click on the General tab.
Click on the Lock Icon: Click on the lock icon at the bottom left corner of the window to unlock the settings.
Disable the AdGuard Network System Extension: In the list of system extensions, find the AdGuard Network System Extension and click on the toggle button to disable it.

Step 2: Remove the AdGuard Network System Extension from the System Configuration

Open the Terminal: Click on the Spotlight search and type "Terminal" to open it.
Type the following command: In the Terminal window, type the following command and press Enter:

sudo kextunload -b com.adguard.adguardnetwork

Enter your administrator password: When prompted, enter your administrator password to authenticate the command.
Remove the AdGuard Network System Extension: Type the following command and press Enter:

sudo kextunload -b com.adguard.adguardnetwork

Verify the removal: Type the following command and press Enter to verify that the extension has been removed:

kextstat | grep com.adguard.adguardnetwork

If the extension is still listed, repeat the removal process.

Step 3: Remove the AdGuard Network System Extension from the System Configuration Files

Open the Terminal: Click on the Spotlight search and type "Terminal" to open it.
Type the following command: In the Terminal window, type the following command and press Enter:

sudo rm /Library/Extensions/com.adguard.adguardnetwork.kext

Enter your administrator password: When prompted, enter your administrator password to authenticate the command.
Verify the removal: Type the following command and press Enter to verify that the extension has been removed:

ls /Library/Extensions/com.adguard.adguardnetwork.kext

If the extension is still listed, repeat the removal process.

Step 4: Remove the AdGuard Network System Extension from the System Configuration Files (Alternative Method)

Open the Terminal: Click on the Spotlight search and type "Terminal" to open it.
Type the following command: In the Terminal window, type the following command and press Enter:

sudo rm /System/Library/Extensions/com.adguard.adguardnetwork.kext

Enter your administrator password: When prompted, enter your administrator password to authenticate the command.
Verify the removal: Type the following command and press Enter to verify that the extension has been removed:

ls /System/Library/Extensions/com.adguard.adguardnetwork.kext

If the extension is still listed, repeat the removal process.

Step 5: Reboot Your Mac

Save any open files: Before rebooting your Mac, save any open files or documents.
Click on the Apple Menu: Click on the Apple menu and select Restart.
Wait for the reboot: Wait for your Mac to reboot completely.

Step 6: Verify the Removal

Open the Terminal: Click on the Spotlight search and type "Terminal" to open it.
Type the following command: In the Terminal window, type the following command and press Enter:

kextstat | grep com.adguard.adguardnetwork

If the extension is not listed, it has been successfully removed.

Q: Why is the AdGuard Network System Extension still showing up in EtreCheck reports after I've uninstalled it?

A: This is a common issue, and there are several reasons why the extension might still be showing up in EtreCheck reports. It's possible that the extension is still loaded in memory, or that there are corrupted system files that are preventing the extension from being completely removed. Try restarting your Mac and running EtreCheck again to see if the issue persists.

Q: I've tried uninstalling the AdGuard Network System Extension, but it keeps reappearing. What can I do?

A: If the extension keeps reappearing after you've uninstalled it, try the following:

Check if there are any other system extensions or kernel extensions that are interfering with the uninstallation process.
Try removing the extension from the system configuration files using the Terminal commands provided in the uninstallation guide.
If the issue persists, consider seeking help from a professional or contacting AdGuard support for further assistance.

Q: Can I uninstall the AdGuard Network System Extension using the AdGuard app?

A: Unfortunately, the AdGuard app does not provide an option to uninstall the system extension. You'll need to use the Terminal commands provided in the uninstallation guide to remove the extension.

Q: I'm not comfortable using the Terminal to uninstall the AdGuard Network System Extension. What can I do?

A: If you're not comfortable using the Terminal, you can try seeking help from a professional or contacting AdGuard support for further assistance. They may be able to provide you with additional guidance or assistance with the uninstallation process.

Q: Will uninstalling the AdGuard Network System Extension affect my AdGuard subscription?

A: Uninstalling the AdGuard Network System Extension will not affect your AdGuard subscription. However, you may need to reinstall the AdGuard app and reconfigure your settings after uninstalling the system extension.

Q: Can I reinstall the AdGuard Network System Extension if I need to?

A: Yes, you can reinstall the AdGuard Network System Extension if you need to. However, you'll need to follow the installation instructions provided by AdGuard to ensure that the extension is installed correctly.

Q: I've uninstalled the AdGuard Network System Extension, but I'm still seeing ads. What can I do?

A: If you're still seeing ads after uninstalling the AdGuard Network System Extension, try the following:

Check if there are any other system extensions or kernel extensions that are interfering with the ad-blocking process.
Try reinstalling the AdGuard app and reconfiguring your settings.
If the issue persists, consider seeking help from a professional or contacting AdGuard support for further assistance.

Q: Can I uninstall the AdGuard Network System Extension if I'm running macOS High Sierra or earlier?

A: Unfortunately, the AdGuard Network System Extension is not compatible with macOS High Sierra or earlier. You'll need to upgrade to a newer version of macOS to use the extension.

Q: I've uninstalled the AdGuard Network System Extension, but I'm still seeing the AdGuard icon in my menu bar. What can I do?

A: If you're still seeing the AdGuard icon in your menu bar after uninstalling the AdGuard Network System Extension, try the following:

Check if there are any other system extensions or kernel extensions that are interfering with the uninstallation process.
Try removing the AdGuard app from your Applications folder.
If the issue persists, consider seeking help from a professional or contacting AdGuard support for further assistance.