How to Completely Uninstall Sideloadly and Remove All Leftover Files

To completely uninstall Sideloadly, you must first remove the core application via the Windows Settings menu or macOS Applications folder, and then manually locate and delete hidden configuration data residing in the AppData, Registry, or Library directories. This two-step process is essential because the standard uninstaller often leaves behind “orphan” files, such as local Anisette data, cache folders, and registry keys, which can cause conflict errors if you attempt to reinstall the software later.

Simply dragging the Sideloadly icon to the Trash or clicking “Uninstall” in the Control Panel is often insufficient for a clean slate, as it fails to address background daemons and authentication tokens stored deep within the system architecture. Leaving these files behind consumes unnecessary storage space and can pose potential security risks if the associated Apple ID tokens are left dormant on a shared machine.

Ensuring all background processes, specifically the `sideloadly.exe` daemon and any associated Mail Plug-ins on macOS, are fully terminated via Task Manager or Activity Monitor is a critical prerequisite before attempting removal to avoid “File in Use” error loops. Without killing these active tasks, the system lock prevents the uninstaller from deleting the main executable files, resulting in a failed or partial uninstallation.

Comprehensive removal ensures a clean environment for a fresh installation or permanently frees up system resources, and the following guide details every specific step required to purge Sideloadly from both Windows 10/11 and macOS operating systems.

How to Uninstall Sideloadly on Windows 10 and 11?

The standard method to uninstall Sideloadly involves three main phases: terminating active background processes, executing the removal via the Windows Settings menu, and verifying the deletion through the Control Panel.

To start the removal process correctly, you must ensure the application is not actively running in the background, as Windows cannot delete files that are currently in use by the system.

How to Remove Sideloadly via Settings or Control Panel?

To remove Sideloadly via Settings, navigate to the Start Menu, select Settings (gear icon), choose “Apps,” locate Sideloadly in the list, and click the “Uninstall” button to trigger the removal wizard.

Specifically, the process for Windows 10 and Windows 11 is designed to be user-friendly, utilizing the built-in `unins000.exe` command associated with the software.

1. Access App Settings: Click on the Start button and select the Settings gear icon. From the main menu, select Apps and then click on Installed Apps (Windows 11) or Apps & features (Windows 10).

2. Locate the Software: In the search bar provided within the Apps window, type “Sideloadly.” This filters the list of installed programs.

3. Execute Uninstall: Click on the three dots (…) next to the Sideloadly entry (or click the entry itself in Windows 10) and select Uninstall. A confirmation pop-up will appear; click Uninstall again.

4. Follow the Wizard: The Sideloadly uninstallation wizard will launch. Follow the on-screen prompts to remove the main program files.

For example, if you prefer the legacy interface, you can access the Control Panel, navigate to Programs and Features, right-click Sideloadly, and select Uninstall. This achieves the exact same result as the Settings app but uses the classic Windows interface. It is important to note that while this step removes the main executable (`.exe`) and the shortcut from your desktop, it rarely removes the configuration files stored in your user profile, which will be addressed in the next section.

How to Force Close Sideloadly Background Processes?

Force closing Sideloadly background processes involves opening the Windows Task Manager, identifying the `sideloadly.exe` or `sideloadly-daemon` entry, and selecting “End Task” to terminate the operation immediately.

To illustrate, if you attempt to uninstall the software while it is waiting for a device connection in the background, Windows will throw a generic error message stating that the action cannot be completed because the folder or file is open in another program.

1. Open Task Manager: Press the keyboard shortcut `Ctrl + Shift + Esc` to open the Task Manager directly. Alternatively, right-click the Taskbar and select “Task Manager.”

2. Locate Processes: Ensure you are on the Processes tab. Look through the list for any items named Sideloadly, Sideloadly Daemon, or potentially Anisette Service.

3. Terminate Activity: Right-click on the target process and select End Task. Wait a moment to ensure the process disappears from the list completely.

4. Check System Tray: sometimes the application minimizes to the system tray (the area near the clock). If you see the Sideloadly icon there, right-click it and select Quit before checking the Task Manager.

More specifically, this step is crucial because Sideloadly often runs a background daemon to detect when an iPhone or iPad is connected via USB. This daemon maintains a lock on the installation directory. If you skip this step, the uninstaller might run but fail to delete the core executables, leaving you with a “broken” installation that is neither fully installed nor fully removed.

Where Are Sideloadly Leftover Files Located on Windows?

Sideloadly leftover files are primarily located in three hidden directories: the Local AppData folder for temporary caches, the Roaming AppData folder for user configurations, and the Windows Registry database for system integration keys.

Below, we will explore how to access these hidden areas to perform a “Deep Clean,” ensuring that absolutely no trace of the software remains on your hard drive.

How to Delete Sideloadly Data from the AppData Folder?

Deleting Sideloadly data from the AppData folder requires navigating to the hidden `%localappdata%` and `%appdata%` directories via the Windows Run command and manually deleting the folders named “Sideloadly.”

Specifically, the AppData folder is where Windows applications store data specific to your user profile, such as your Apple ID login token (encrypted), customization preferences, and temporary IPA files extracted during the sideloading process.

1. Open Run Command: Press the `Windows Key + R` on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.

2. Access Local AppData: Type `%localappdata%` into the box and press Enter. This will open a File Explorer window.

3. Delete Local Folder: Scroll down to find the folder named Sideloadly. Right-click it and select Delete. This folder often contains temporary cache files and logs.

4. Access Roaming AppData: Press `Windows Key + R` again. This time, type `%appdata%` and press Enter.

5. Delete Roaming Folder: Look for the Sideloadly folder here as well. This directory usually contains your settings and configuration files. Right-click and Delete it.

For example, if you have ever successfully sideloaded an app, Sideloadly may have cached the IPA file or temporary headers in these folders. These files can take up several hundred megabytes of space. If you do not delete them, reinstalling Sideloadly in the future will automatically restore your old settings, which is counter-productive if you are uninstalling to fix a configuration error.

How to Clean Sideloadly Registry Keys?

Cleaning Sideloadly Registry keys involves using the `regedit` tool to navigate to `HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftware` and deleting the specific keys associated with Sideloadly to remove system-level associations.

To understand better, the Windows Registry is a hierarchical database that stores low-level settings for the operating system and for applications that opt to use the registry. Sideloadly uses this to remember installation paths and user preferences.

1. Open Registry Editor: Press `Windows Key + R`, type `regedit`, and press Enter. Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control (UAC).

2. Navigate the Tree: On the left sidebar, expand the folders in this order: `HKEY_CURRENT_USER` > `Software`.

3. Locate Sideloadly Key: Scroll down the list of software vendors until you find a folder labeled Sideloadly.

4. Delete the Key: Right-click the Sideloadly folder (key) and select Delete. Confirm the action when prompted.

5. Check Local Machine (Optional): You can also check `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE` for similar keys, although Sideloadly primarily writes to the Current User hive.

More importantly, editing the registry carries a slight risk. If you delete the wrong key, it can affect other programs. However, deleting the specific Sideloadly key is safe and ensures that Windows no longer “remembers” the software existed. This is often the fix for errors where the installer claims the software is already installed when it is not.

Do I Need to Remove Local Anisette Data?

Yes, removing Local Anisette data is necessary if you are uninstalling Sideloadly to fix specific “guru meditation” errors, authentication failures, or if you plan to switch to a different Apple ID for sideloading.

To illustrate, Anisette data is a set of authentication headers that allows Sideloadly to communicate with Apple’s servers to sign applications (IPAs) without using a Mac. This data mimics the login process of iTunes or iCloud.

If this data becomes corrupted—which often happens if the PC crashes during a signing process or if Apple updates their server-side protocols—Sideloadly will fail to sign apps even after a reinstall. The Anisette data is typically stored within the ProgramData folder or the AppData folders mentioned previously.

• Location: Check `C:ProgramDataSideloadly` (you may need to enable “Hidden Items” in File Explorer View tab to see ProgramData).
• Action: Delete the folder containing `adi` or `machine_id` files.

By deleting this, you force the software (if reinstalled) to generate a fresh, clean handshake with Apple’s servers, resolving persistent login issues.

How to Completely Uninstall Sideloadly on macOS?

Uninstalling Sideloadly on macOS requires removing the main application bundle from the Applications folder, cleaning the specific Mail Plug-in used for authentication, and purging associated containers in the User Library.

Next, we will address the macOS specific architecture, which differs significantly from Windows because applications are bundled as packages rather than scattered executables.

How to Remove Sideloadly from the Applications Folder?

Removing Sideloadly from the Applications folder involves opening Finder, locating the Sideloadly app icon, dragging it to the Trash bin, and subsequently emptying the Trash to finalize the deletion.

Specifically, this is the standard removal method for most macOS applications, but it only removes the binary executable, not the support files.

1. Open Finder: Click the Finder icon in your Dock.

2. Go to Applications: Select Applications from the left sidebar.

3. Delete App: Find Sideloadly.app. Right-click (or Control-click) on it and select Move to Trash. Alternatively, drag the icon directly to the Trash can in the Dock.

4. Empty Trash: Right-click the Trash icon in the Dock and select Empty Trash.

For example, simply moving the app to the Trash is like throwing a shortcut in the bin on Windows; the data created by the app remains on the disk. However, this is the mandatory first step before hunting down the residual library files.

How to Locate and Delete Sideloadly Support Files in Library?

Locating and deleting Sideloadly support files in the Library involves using the “Go to Folder” command to access `~/Library/Application Support/` and `~/Library/Caches/` to manually remove folders named Sideloadly.

To illustrate, the macOS User Library is hidden by default to prevent users from accidentally deleting critical system files. Sideloadly stores your preferences and IPA processing data here.

1. Access Hidden Library: In Finder, click Go in the top menu bar, then select Go to Folder… (or press `Cmd + Shift + G`).

2. Search Application Support: Type `~/Library/Application Support/` and press Enter. Look for a folder named Sideloadly and move it to the Trash.

3. Search Caches: Repeat the “Go to Folder” command and type `~/Library/Caches/`. Look for any folders starting with `io.sideloadly` or simply `Sideloadly` and delete them.

4. Search Preferences: Go to `~/Library/Preferences/` and delete `io.sideloadly.plist` if it exists.

More specifically, the `plist` (Property List) file contains your user settings. If you want to reset Sideloadly to its “factory” state without reinstalling the OS, deleting the `plist` file is the most effective method.

How to Remove the Sideloadly Mail Plug-in (If Installed)?

Removing the Sideloadly Mail Plug-in involves opening the Apple Mail app preferences to disable the plug-in, and then manually deleting the `.mailbundle` file from the library to ensure complete removal of Anisette capabilities.

Specifically, on macOS, Sideloadly (similar to AltStore) often utilizes a Mail Plug-in to generate the necessary Anisette data for signing apps. This plug-in runs inside the Mail application.

1. Open Mail App: Launch the native Mail application on your Mac.

2. Manage Plug-ins: Click Mail in the top menu bar > Settings (or Preferences) > General tab. Click the Manage Plug-ins… button at the bottom.

3. Disable Plug-in: Uncheck the box next to Sideloadly Plugin.mailbundle (or similar name). Click Apply and Restart Mail.

4. Delete File: Once Mail restarts, close it. Open Finder, press `Cmd + Shift + G`, and navigate to `/Library/Mail/Bundles/` or `~/Library/Mail/Bundles/`.

5. Remove Bundle: Delete the SideloadlyPlugin.mailbundle file.

Definition: The Mail Plug-in is a software add-on that injects code into the Mail app to allow Sideloadly to “piggyback” on the system’s ability to communicate securely with Apple servers. Removing it is vital for security if you no longer use the software.

How to Fix Common Sideloadly Uninstallation Errors?

Common Sideloadly uninstallation errors generally fall into two categories: “File in Use” locks caused by active background daemons and “Permission Denied” errors stemming from insufficient administrative rights or corrupted registry entries.

Afterwards, if you have followed the manual steps above and still face issues, these troubleshooting tips will help resolve the most stubborn removal problems.

Why Does Windows Say “File in Use” During Uninstall?

This error occurs because the Sideloadly daemon or a related Apple driver service is still running in the background, effectively locking the essential DLL or EXE files and preventing modification.

To start, Windows protects files that are currently being read or written to by a running process.

• The Cause: Sideloadly has a “daemon” (a background process) that monitors for USB connections to iOS devices. Even if the main window is closed, the daemon might be active.
• The Solution: The quickest fix is to Restart your Computer. A reboot terminates all non-essential temporary processes. Immediately after the reboot, try to uninstall Sideloadly before launching any other programs.
• Alternative: Boot Windows into Safe Mode. Safe Mode loads only the bare minimum drivers required for the OS to run. Sideloadly services will not launch in Safe Mode, guaranteeing that the files are not locked, allowing you to delete the folder manually from `C:Program Files`.

Should I Use Third-Party Uninstalls like Revo Uninstaller?

Revo Uninstaller is superior to manual removal for non-technical users as it automatically scans for and deletes leftover registry keys and files, whereas manual removal offers more control but carries a higher risk of user error.

To illustrate, tools like Revo Uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller, or Geek Uninstaller perform a standard uninstall and then run a “Post-Uninstall Scan.”

• Automation: When you use Revo, it runs the built-in Sideloadly uninstaller first. Once that finishes, Revo scans the registry and hard drive for any files that match “Sideloadly” and presents them in a list for you to delete with one click.
• Hunter Mode: If Sideloadly is not showing up in your Apps list (a common error), Revo has a “Hunter Mode” where you can drag a target icon over the Sideloadly desktop shortcut, and it will force-remove the program and its associations.
• Recommendation: If you are comfortable using File Explorer and Regedit, manual removal is free and effective. If you are afraid of deleting the wrong registry key or cannot find the hidden folders, using a reputable third-party uninstaller is the safer and faster option to ensure a “Complete” uninstall.

What Happens After Uninstalling Sideloadly?

Uninstalling Sideloadly removes the desktop client and its ability to sign apps, but it does not immediately delete or disable apps already installed on your iOS device.

When you remove Sideloadly from your computer, you effectively sever the link required to refresh the cryptographic signatures on your sideloaded IPAs. Consequently, while the files remain on your disk until you manually delete them, the automated background processes that handle Anisette data injection and certificate renewal will cease. This creates a scenario where your current setup remains static; no new apps can be sideloaded, and existing ones will eventually lose their validity without the host application to facilitate the re-signing process through Apple’s servers.

Furthermore, users should understand the specific implications regarding the functionality of their games and the comparative difficulty of removing this tool versus its competitors.

Will My Sideloaded Games Stop Working Immediately?

No, your sideloaded games and apps will continue to function normally until their current provisioning profile expires.

Apple grants a temporary certificate (typically lasting 7 days for free developer accounts) when an app is sideloaded onto a device. Removing the Sideloadly desktop tool does not revoke this certificate; it simply prevents you from renewing it. Therefore, the timeline for your apps looks like this:

• Active Period: If you have three days left on your 7-day limit, the app will launch perfectly for those three days.
• Expiration: Once the timer hits zero, the app will crash on launch because the iOS system can no longer verify the integrity of the developer signature.
• Data Retention: Even after the app stops working, the save data remains on your phone. You can access it again if you reinstall Sideloadly later and re-sign the same IPA.

Sideloadly vs. AltStore: Which is Easier to Uninstall?

Sideloadly is generally considered easier and cleaner to uninstall compared to AltStore due to fewer system dependencies.

While both tools serve a similar purpose, their architecture differs significantly regarding system integration. AltStore requires a complex ecosystem involving AltServer, specific non-Microsoft Store versions of iCloud and iTunes, and often a Mail Plug-in on macOS to function correctly. Removing AltStore completely requires hunting down these dispersed components and ensuring the background server is terminated.

In contrast, Sideloadly operates as a more standalone utility.

• Dependencies: It does not require a persistent Mail Plug-in or a constantly running background server in the system tray.
• Residue: While both leave temporary files, Sideloadly’s leftover registry keys and temporary folders are less scattered than AltStore’s, making the manual cleanup process significantly faster for the average user.

Is It Safe to Reinstall Sideloadly After Cleanup?

Yes, performing a clean reinstall is safe and is often the recommended troubleshooting step for persistent errors.

If you are encountering vague technical issues such as the “Guru Meditation” error or failures regarding Local Anisette generation, a standard uninstallation followed by a fresh install effectively wipes corrupted configuration files. By clearing the old directories before reinstalling, you achieve several technical benefits:

• Corrupt Data Removal: It eliminates cached data that may be causing conflict during the signing process.
• Connection Reset: You force the program to download fresh components and re-establish a handshake with Apple’s servers.
• Logic Fixes: A clean slate resolves internal logic conflicts that may have developed over time in the previous installation, ensuring a smoother sideloading experience moving forward.