What is the safest way to uninstall dropbox app and delete files?

[Timothy J.4]

I have the Dropbox app installed on a computer (iMac desktop, circa 2013) belonging to my employer. I am retiring and the computer must be returned to IT for disposal. How to I uninstall the app and delete the files without affecting them on the Dropbox server(s). I still want to access the files from my home computer and laptop, both of which have the app installed.

Tim J.

[Megan]

Hey @Timothy J.4, I hope you're doing well! 

First things first, you'd need to disable Computer backup, if the feature was previously enabled on the device. Once you do that, and once the files are back on their original path, you're safe to uninstall the app. 

Uninstalling the app won't delete your Dropbox folder, so feel free to do this once the process is done. Want to give it a go, and let me know if you have any questions? 

Thanks!

[Timothy J.4]

Hi, Megan --

When I follow the instructions to "disable computer backup" from your link, there is no command to "adjust settings" under the "manage backup" tab in the Dropbox app. I tried unchecking all the folders that are checked for backup and saving the settings, but when I reopen the Dropbox app, they reappear checked. Is it safe for me to uninstall the Dropbox app and delete the files on the hard drive without disabling backup?

Tim

[Megan]

Hi @Timothy J.4, happy Monday! 

Yes, that is safe. Unless your employer (or you) needs the Computer backup files back in their original paths. In this case, I'd be happy to continue troubleshooting further as to why the behavior that you described is happening, when trying to disable it.

Let me know how you wish to proceed. 

[Timothy J.4]

HI, Megan --

Thanks so much for your quick reply. My employer does not need any of the files, so I'll go ahead to uninstall the app and delete the files. If I run into any more problems, I'll reply again on this thread.

Tim

[Megan]

Sure thing, Timothy!

If you need anything else, give me a shout!  😊