How to Completely Uninstall Surfshark VPN from Ubuntu

Ever found yourself needing to clean out old software from your system, maybe to free up space, troubleshoot an issue, or just switch to something new? Well, if you’re an Ubuntu user and Surfshark VPN has been your choice, then you know sometimes simply dragging an icon to the trash isn’t an option. To completely uninstall Surfshark VPN in Ubuntu, you’ll need to open up your terminal and use a few specific commands to make sure every last trace of the application and its configurations is gone. This is super important because leaving behind old files, especially for a VPN, can cause conflicts if you’re installing a new one or even impact your system’s performance.

Think of it like this: you’re moving out of an old apartment. You don’t just take your main furniture. you sweep, clean out the fridge, and make sure there’s nothing left in the corners. The same goes for your software! We’re going to walk through this process step-by-step, making sure your Ubuntu system is squeaky clean after Surfshark moves out. This guide will cover how to remove the main Surfshark application, any manual OpenVPN configurations you might have set up, and even those pesky leftover files and repositories. By the end, you’ll have a fresh start, whether you’re looking to install a different VPN, or just want to reclaim your system’s pristine state.

Getting Ready: Disconnect and Close Surfshark

Before we start typing commands like a tech wizard, let’s do some basic prep. It’s always a good idea to make sure the VPN is disconnected and the application is completely closed. This prevents any files from being locked during the uninstallation process, which can lead to frustrating errors.

Step 1: Disconnect from the VPN

If you’re currently connected to a Surfshark server, disconnect from it first.

• If you’re using the GUI app: Open the Surfshark application and hit the “Disconnect” button.
• If you’re using the terminal CLI: Open your terminal Ctrl+Alt+T and type:

  sudo surfshark-vpn down
  

  This command tells Surfshark to end your current VPN connection.

Step 2: Close the Surfshark Application

After disconnecting, make sure the application itself isn’t running in the background.

• For the GUI app: Look for the Surfshark icon in your system tray usually at the top or bottom right of your screen. Right-click it and select “Quit” or “Exit.”
• If it’s stubbornly running or you want to be sure: You can check and kill any lingering processes from the terminal.
  sudo killall surfshark-vpn
  sudo killall surfshark-client
  Don’t worry if these commands say “no process found” – it just means it wasn’t running anyway, which is perfectly fine!

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The Main Event: Uninstalling Surfshark via Terminal

This is where the real work happens. Most of the time, Surfshark is installed using apt, Ubuntu’s package manager. We’ll use specific apt commands to remove the software. The key here is using purge instead of just remove, which ensures configuration files are also deleted.

Step 1: Remove the Main Surfshark Package

Open your terminal if you closed it, just hit Ctrl+Alt+T. The primary command to get rid of the Surfshark application is:

sudo apt purge surfshark```
You might be prompted to enter your administrator password. Go ahead and type it in you won't see anything, that's normal for security reasons, then press Enter. When it asks for confirmation usually "Y/n", type `Y` and hit Enter.

This command specifically targets the main Surfshark GUI application and its core dependencies. `purge` is super helpful because it not only removes the application files but also its configuration files, which `remove` usually leaves behind. We want a clean slate, right?

# Step 2: Remove Other Related Surfshark Packages
Sometimes, Surfshark installs a few related packages or its VPN client component separately. To make sure we catch them all, run these commands as well:
sudo apt purge surfshark-vpn
sudo apt purge surfshark-release

The surfshark-vpn package is often the command-line interface part. And surfshark-release typically handles the repository information, meaning where your system looks for Surfshark updates. Removing these helps ensure there are no remnants left to cause issues or try to update a non-existent app. Again, type Y and press Enter if prompted for confirmation.

Step 3: Clean Up Unused Dependencies

After uninstalling software, sometimes other packages that were only needed by Surfshark are left hanging around. You can clean these up with:
sudo apt autoremove
This command scans your system for packages that were installed as dependencies but are no longer needed by any installed software. It’s a great way to keep your system lean and tidy! All About Surfshark VPN: Your Ultimate Guide to Online Freedom and Security

Digging Deeper: Removing Leftover Files and Configurations

Even after purging, there might be some stray files or directories that apt doesn’t know about, especially if you used manual setup methods or if the application generated logs.

Step 1: Remove Surfshark’s Repository Important for Future Installations

If you previously added Surfshark’s official repository to your system, it’s a good idea to remove it. This prevents your system from trying to update a repository for an app you no longer have.
sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/surfshark.list
This command deletes the specific file that tells your system where to find Surfshark’s packages. Sometimes, the file might be named slightly differently, like surfshark-vpn.list or surfshark-stable.list. If the command gives an error saying “No such file or directory,” don’t worry, it just means the file either didn’t exist or was already removed.

After removing the repository file, it’s crucial to update your package list:
sudo apt update
This command refreshes your system’s list of available packages, so it no longer looks for Surfshark updates in a non-existent repository. Surfshark Tutorial: Your Easy Guide to Online Security

Step 2: Delete Surfshark’s Configuration and Data Directories

Applications often store configuration files and user data in specific directories. These aren’t always cleaned up by apt purge.

• Global Configuration: Surfshark might have a directory in /etc.
  sudo rm -rf /etc/surfshark
• User-Specific Configuration: It’s also common to find configuration files in your home directory, often hidden.
  rm -rf ~/.config/surfshark
  rm -rf ~/.local/share/surfshark
• Log Files: While Surfshark states it’s a no-logs VPN, some system-level logs related to its operation might exist. These are usually in /var/log.
  sudo rm -rf /var/log/surfshark
  Again, if any of these commands return “No such file or directory,” it’s fine – it just means that particular directory didn’t exist on your system. The -rf flag means “recursive force,” which allows you to delete directories and their contents without being prompted for each file, so use these commands carefully and only for the directories you’re sure about.

Step 3: Remove Manual OpenVPN Configurations If Applicable

Some users prefer to set up Surfshark using OpenVPN configuration files directly with Ubuntu’s Network Manager or a standalone OpenVPN client. If you did this, the apt purge commands won’t touch these.

• For Network Manager connections:

  1. Click on the network icon in your system tray usually top-right.
  2. Go to “Wired Connected” -> “Wired Settings” or “Wi-Fi Settings” if on Wi-Fi.
  3. In the Network settings window, find the “VPN” section on the left.
  4. Locate any Surfshark VPN connections you created. They might be named something like “Surfshark Norway Server”.
  5. Click the gear icon next to the connection, then click “Remove VPN” or the trash can icon. Confirm the removal.
• For standalone OpenVPN configuration files: You might have downloaded .ovpn files. These are typically stored wherever you put them, but a common place for system-wide configs is /etc/openvpn/.
  sudo rm -f /etc/openvpn/client.conf # or whatever your Surfshark .conf file was named
  sudo rm -rf /etc/openvpn/surfshark-configs # if you unzipped a config pack here
  Also, check your ~/Downloads or ~/Documents folders for any .ovpn files you might have stored there.

Step 4: Reboot Your System

Once you’ve run all the uninstallation and cleanup commands, it’s a good practice to reboot your Ubuntu system. This helps to ensure that all services related to Surfshark are stopped and any cached configurations are cleared.
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What About Other Operating Systems? Quick Look

While this guide focuses on Ubuntu, I know many of you use Surfshark on other devices too. Just for a quick overview, here’s how uninstalling generally works elsewhere:

• Windows: On Windows, you typically go to “Settings” -> “Apps” -> “Apps & features,” find Surfshark, and click “Uninstall.” Sometimes, you might need to manually remove TAP drivers or check the registry for leftover entries for a truly clean uninstall, especially if you encounter issues.
• macOS: For Mac users, it’s usually as simple as closing the app, then dragging the Surfshark application from your “Applications” folder to the Trash. You might also want to check ~/Library/Application Support/ or ~/Library/Preferences/ for leftover files.
• Android: On Android, you can usually long-press the app icon on your home screen or in the app drawer and select “Uninstall.” Alternatively, go to “Settings” -> “Apps” -> find Surfshark and tap “Uninstall.”

Don’t Forget: Cancelling Your Surfshark Subscription / Deleting Your Account

Uninstalling the app from your device does not automatically cancel your Surfshark subscription or delete your account. This is a common pitfall! Many people uninstall an app and then wonder why they’re still being charged.

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To cancel your subscription or delete your account, you usually need to interact directly with Surfshark’s customer support:

1. Contact Customer Support: The most straightforward way is to reach out to Surfshark’s customer success team via Live Chat on their official website. They are available 24/7. Just tell them you want to cancel your subscription or delete your account.
2. Provide Details: Be ready to provide your Surfshark account email address. If you have an active subscription, they will help you cancel it.
3. Confirm Cancellation: Make sure to get confirmation that your subscription has been canceled and auto-renewal is turned off. If you’re within their 30-day money-back guarantee, you can also request a refund at this stage.
4. Account Deletion: If you want your account completely deleted not just the subscription canceled, specifically request this from their support team. They will guide you through the process, which usually involves a few confirmation steps.

Remember, if you cancel an active subscription, the remaining time might not be refunded if you’re outside the money-back guarantee period, but you won’t be charged for the next billing cycle.

Troubleshooting Common Uninstall Issues

Even with the best instructions, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a couple of common issues you might run into and how to deal with them: Tarif Surfshark VPN: Deciphering the Cost and Value in 2025

“Package ‘surfshark’ is not installed, so not removed” Error

If you get this message, it usually means the main surfshark package wasn’t installed, or you’ve already successfully removed it. No need to worry! Just continue with the other purge commands for surfshark-vpn and surfshark-release as they might still be present. It could also mean Surfshark was installed differently e.g., via Snap or Flatpak, which we’ll cover in the FAQ.

Leftover Files Causing Problems

Sometimes, even after purging, you might notice strange network behavior or an error when trying to install a new VPN. This usually points to leftover configuration files or network settings.

• Manual File Check: You can try to manually search for any remaining “surfshark” files. Be careful with this, as deleting random system files can cause issues!
  sudo find / -name “surfshark” 2>/dev/null
  This command will search your entire filesystem for anything with “surfshark” in its name. The 2>/dev/null part just suppresses error messages for directories you don’t have permission to access. Review the output carefully and only delete files/directories you are absolutely certain belong to Surfshark and are safe to remove.
• Network Manager Conflicts: If you used the Network Manager for OpenVPN configurations, double-check that all Surfshark profiles are deleted as described earlier. Old VPN connections can sometimes interfere.
• DNS Issues: If your internet feels off, check your DNS settings. Surfshark might have temporarily configured them, and they might not have reverted correctly. You can usually set your DNS back to automatic or use public DNS servers like Google 8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4 or Cloudflare 1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1 in your network settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to cancel my Surfshark subscription before uninstalling the app?

Yes, absolutely! Uninstalling the app from your Ubuntu system only removes the software. Your subscription and any associated recurring payments will not be canceled automatically. You need to contact Surfshark’s customer support directly, usually via live chat on their website, to cancel your subscription or delete your account.

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What’s the difference between sudo apt remove and sudo apt purge?

This is a crucial distinction for a clean uninstall.

• sudo apt remove <package-name>: This command removes the application’s binary files the program itself but typically leaves behind configuration files and user data. It’s like taking your clothes out of a closet but leaving all the hangers and shelves.
• sudo apt purge <package-name>: This command does everything remove does, plus it deletes the application’s system-wide configuration files. This is usually what you want for a complete cleanup, especially for sensitive software like a VPN. Think of it as emptying the entire closet and taking out the shelves too.

Will uninstalling Surfshark affect my internet connection?

In most cases, no. Once Surfshark is properly uninstalled and any active VPN connections are stopped, your internet connection should revert to its normal state, routing directly through your ISP. If you experience connection issues, it might be due to residual DNS settings or Network Manager configurations that didn’t reset properly. Check your network settings and ensure DNS is set to automatic or a reliable public server.

How do I know if Surfshark is completely uninstalled?

After following all the steps in this guide, especially rebooting your system, you can do a few checks:

1. Terminal Check: Try running surfshark-vpn status or surfshark-vpn help. If you get a “command not found” error, it’s a good sign the main executable is gone.
2. File System Search: Run sudo find / -name "*surfshark*" 2>/dev/null as mentioned in the troubleshooting section. If the output is empty or only shows non-Surfshark related files e.g., from unrelated websites or documents you might have, you’re in good shape.
3. Network Manager: Open your Network settings and confirm no Surfshark VPN profiles are listed under the VPN section.
4. apt Cache: apt list --installed | grep surfshark should return nothing if all Surfshark packages are gone.

Can I reinstall Surfshark easily after uninstalling?

Yes, absolutely! If you decide to go back to Surfshark in the future, you’ll simply follow their official installation instructions for Ubuntu, which typically involves adding their repository, updating apt, and then installing the surfshark package. A clean uninstall makes reinstallations much smoother, preventing conflicts from old files. What’s the Big Deal About Static IP Addresses, Anyway?

What if I installed Surfshark via Snap or Flatpak instead of apt?

If you installed Surfshark using Snap or Flatpak alternative package managers for Linux, the uninstallation commands will be different.

• For Snap:
  sudo snap remove surfshark
• For Flatpak:
  First, find the exact application ID:
  flatpak list | grep surfshark
  Then, remove it using the ID:
  flatpak uninstall
  e.g., flatpak uninstall com.surfshark.Surfshark

Always confirm how you installed it initially if the apt commands aren’t working as expected.

There you have it! Uninstalling Surfshark VPN from your Ubuntu system is a straightforward process once you know the right commands. By following these steps, you’ll ensure a clean removal, keeping your system free of digital clutter and ready for whatever comes next. Happy computing!

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