Reinstall ClamXAV

Sometimes, it’s not possible to fix all bugs by simply updating ClamXAV from within the app, for example, some Apple-related issues can only be fixed by using the full installer. Others require the removal of ClamXAV first, so that Apple’s LaunchServices database can be updated properly. If an update requires to be installed this way, we will direct you to this page from within ClamXAV.

Remove ClamXAV

Go to your Applications folder and drag ClamXAV.app to the trash.

At this point, the uninstaller may pop up asking if you’d like to remove the scanning engine. Please allow it to continue. Don’t worry if you receive any errors from the uninstaller.

Ensure login items have gone

Go to the Apple Menu  → System Settings → General → Login Items

Wait until any items marked ClamXAV or “Mark Allan” (our founder, and lead developer of ClamXAV) disappear. It should only take a couple of seconds.

System Settings window showing the new login items panel

Reinstall ClamXAV

Download the full installer for the latest version of ClamXAV. Double click it to install. If you’re warned/prompted about items running in the background, these must be permitted. Please ensure they are enabled in the Login Items of System Settings, as per the paragraph above.