Can I Delete DMG Files on Mac Once I Install the App [Full Guide]

Can I delete DMG files after installing apps on a Mac? If you have this question and don't know whether to delete or save the DMG files after installing, read this guide to learn the safe way to manage DMG files and free up space on your Mac.

Table of Contents

DMG files are compressed files used to deliver software on macOS. Mac program downloads are usually DMG files. After opening the file, drag it into Applications to install. Some Mac users ask if I can delete DMG files after installing the software. Yes, you can delete DMG files.

This article will examine whether you can delete DMG files after installation is safe and how to completely erase them from your Mac. Read on to learn why and guide you in safely deleting DMG files. In addition, we'll suggest how to restore DMG files if you accidentally remove one.

Can I Delete DMG Files After Installing, Why

It is perfectly safe to delete DMG files after successfully installing the software. The DMG file will no longer be needed once the program has been relocated to your Applications folder and is functioning successfully. It's like a delivery box that has already delivered its contents: you may discard it without hurting the thing inside.

By carefully eliminating unwanted DMG files, you can keep your Mac clean while ensuring that your apps continue to work correctly. Here's why it is safe to delete DMG files after installation:

  • Once the program is installed, the package is no longer required.
  • During the installation process, all necessary files for the software are transferred to your Mac's system.
  • DMG files take up space after their usage. Over time, DMG files may fill up your Mac's storage space.
  • Though the DMG files are harmless, managing and deleting them may keep your Mac working smoothly.

However, sometimes you deleted DMG files but didn't free up your Mac storage space. In this case, this post will help you figure out the reasons and tell you how to fix this error; take a look if needed!

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2 Ways to Safely Delete DMG Files on Mac

After determining that it is safe to remove DMG files, it is critical to understand how to do it effectively. You may clear your Trash manually or utilize shortcuts to speed up the process, which can permanently delete files on Mac.

Fix 1. Delete a DMG File and Empty the Trash

The easiest approach to remove a DMG file is to move it to the Trash bin, but it will not be completely gone until you empty the trash. Here's how to make sure they leave for good:

Step 1. Locate the "DMG file" in Finder, right-click it, and choose "Move to Trash" or drag it to the Trash icon on your dock.

Step 2. To empty the Trash, right-click the Trash icon and choose "Empty Trash". This will permanently delete the DMG file from your system.

empty-the-trash-bin

It is important to note that this operation is irreversible and should be done carefully. It's hard to recover deleted files on Mac after emptying the Trash bin. To prevent things from being eliminated automatically, go to "Finder > Settings > Advanced" and uncheck the option "Remove items from the Trash after 30 days".

uncheck Remove items from the Trash after 30 days

Fix 2. Use Shortcuts to Deleted a DMG File

Shortcuts may make the process of removing DMG files quicker and easier. Here's how to utilize Mac shortcuts to erase files swiftly:

Step 1. Move the DMG file to the Trash by selecting it and pressing "Command + Delete".

Step 2. Use "Shift + Command + Delete" to empty the Trash.

use shortcuts to delete files

Another way to use a shortcut to delete a DMG file is using the "Delete Immediately" option. Instead of moving files to Trash and then emptying them, the Delete Immediately option helps you wipe the selected files instantly and speed up the deletion process. Here's an article guide on how to use it; check it out if needed!

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If you think this post is helpful, share it on social media to help others learn how to delete a DMG file safely after installation.

 

Extra Tip: Can Deleted DMG Files Be Recovered

If you need to reinstall an application or access the disk image, accidentally deleting a DMG file on your Mac might be frustrating. By emptying the Trash or utilizing shortcuts, you may recover a deleted DMG file.

This is where EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac helps. It is a strong program for saving important DMG files from irreparable loss. EaseUS can effortlessly recover permanently deleted files on Mac that were accidentally deleted or removed during system cleanup. Therefore, it works well after emptying the Trash or deleting files using shortcuts.

  1. EaseUS can analyze your Mac's storage and recover DMG files even after you've deleted them on the Trash or using command shortcuts.
  2. EaseUS can recover pictures, videos, documents, and program installs.
  3. To ensure the appropriate DMG file is restored, EaseUS lets you preview it before restoring.
  4. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can recover DMG files after unintentional deletion, system crashes, formatting, and disk damage.
  5. EaseUS software's powerful recovery algorithms can restore the file even after several deletions.

Follow the complete steps in the instructions to recover your deleted DMG files using the program:

Step 1. Select the location and scan

Launch EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac and choose the disk where you lost data. Then, click "Search for lost files" to start scanning.

select a location and click search for lost files

Step 2. Filter and preview lost files

After the scan, use the file format filter on the left or upper right corner to find the deleted files you need.

filter lost files in types

Step 3. Recover lost data or files

You can double-click a file to preview its content, or choose multiple files to recover them at once. Click "Recover" to restore the lost data to a local or cloud drive.

click recover to recover lost data

Conclusion

This article covers DMG files, including whether they're safe to remove after installation and how to delete them from your Mac. We've also covered how to safely remove DMG files using the Trash or shortcuts and restore unintentionally deleted DMG files. Whether managing storage space or retrieving lost data, these methods guarantee that DMG files are handled properly.

To minimize data loss and recover essential files such as DMG files, we strongly suggest using EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac. This dependable program enables the straightforward and effective restoration of permanently erased data. EaseUS is the ideal option for data protection, thanks to its powerful scanning tools and user-friendly interface. Download it now to keep your stuff secure.

Can I Delete DMG Files FAQs

Below are some common queries related to DMG files on Mac:

1. What is a DMG file for?

MacOS software distribution uses DMG files. These files include the application installer and, occasionally, licensing or documentation. You may install a program from a DMG file by mounting it as a virtual drive on your desktop. After program installation, the DMG file is normally unnecessary.

2. Do I need to keep .DMG files on Mac?

DMG files aren't needed after installation unless you wish to reinstall the application without downloading it again. Delete it to free up storage without harming existing apps. If you often reinstall or distribute software, having the DMG files on an external disk may be convenient.

3. What happens if you delete a disk image?

When you delete a disk image, such as a DMG file, you remove the installer and not the installed program. Since uninstalling the DMG file doesn't affect your software, it will keep working. If you empty the Trash or utilize shortcuts to destroy the file permanently, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac can retrieve it.

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Updated by Brithny

Brithny is a technology enthusiast, aiming to make readers' tech lives easy and enjoyable. She loves exploring new technologies and writing technical how-to tips. In her spare time, she loves sharing things about her game experience on Facebook or Twitter.

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