How to remove DisplayExplorer (Mac)

What is DisplayExplorer

DisplayExplorer is an intrusive adware application that operates on macOS, primarily associated with the AdLoad malware family. This software is designed to deliver annoying advertisements, such as pop-ups, coupons, and surveys, across various online platforms. Users often encounter unwanted ads, which can lead to redirection to dubious websites that may promote scams or hazardous software. Although it may initially appear harmless, DisplayExplorer poses significant privacy risks by potentially tracking sensitive user data, including browsing history and personal information. The application’s stealthy installation methods typically involve bundling with free software and deceptive online promotions. Consequently, the presence of DisplayExplorer on a device can result in decreased system performance and increased vulnerability to further malware infections. Users are advised to take immediate action to remove this adware to safeguard their devices and personal information.

How DisplayExplorer infects Mac computers

DisplayExplorer adware typically infects Mac systems through deceptive methods, primarily bundled with legitimate software that users download from unofficial or unverified sources. When users opt for quick installation options—often labeled as “Easy” or “Recommended”—they inadvertently allow the installation of unwanted applications like DisplayExplorer alongside their intended software. Additionally, malicious pop-up ads and compromised websites can lead users to download this adware, often disguised as useful tools or updates. Once installed, DisplayExplorer begins displaying intrusive advertisements, redirecting users to dubious websites, and potentially harvesting sensitive data. The stealthy nature of its installation and operation makes it essential for users to be vigilant during software downloads and avoid interacting with suspicious ads or links. Regular scanning with reliable antivirus solutions can help detect and remove such adware before it causes significant harm.

1. Download DisplayExplorer Removal Tool
2. Remove DisplayExplorer from Login Items
3. Remove/Uninstall DisplayExplorer from Applications
4. Remove DisplayExplorer from browsers
5. Reset browser settings
6. Remove DisplayExplorer files and folders
7. Block DisplayExplorer ads and pop-ups
8. How to protect from threats, like DisplayExplorer

Remove DisplayExplorer manually for free

Note: DisplayExplorer sets up to start on macOS startup. Therefore, before starting the removal, perform these steps:

1. Open System Preferences, choose Users & Groups.
2. Choose your account (set up as Current User).
3. Click Login Items tab.
4. Find “DisplayExplorer” entry. Select it, and click the “-“ (minus) button to remove it.

Note 2: DisplayExplorer won’t quit just by closing it, therefor use Force Quit to end the process.

1. Press 3 buttons at the same time: Option, Command, and Esc (Escape). This is similar to Control-Alt-Delete on a Windows PC.
2. Choose DisplayExplorer in the list.
3. Click Force Quit button.

Here is a manual step-by-step tutorial for full DisplayExplorer removal from your computer. This works 99% and was checked with the latest versions of DisplayExplorer installer on operating systems with the latest updates and browser versions.

Remove DisplayExplorer from Applications

Remove DisplayExplorer from Mac:

1. In the Finder sidebar, click Applications.
2. DisplayExplorer might have an Uninstaller. If you see Uninstall DisplayExplorer or DisplayExplorer Uninstaller, double-click it and follow the onscreen instructions.
3. Otherwise, drag DisplayExplorer from the Applications folder to the Trash (located at the end of the Dock).
4. Then choose Finder > Empty Trash.

Cannot uninstall DisplayExplorer

If you can’t uninstall DisplayExplorer using instructions above, or it keeps coming back, you can use free AppCleaner for Mac to remove all residual data and libraries of DisplayExplorer. Follow instructions below:

1. Download free AppCleaner.
2. Drag DisplayExplorer from Applications folder to AppCleaner window.
3. Choose files and folders you want to remove along with DisplayExplorer.
4. Click Delete button.

Remove DisplayExplorer add-on from your browsers

Removing DisplayExplorer from Applications often does not bring the desired effect. It is a browser extension, and it may still be active in Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Here are instructions on how to remove the DisplayExplorer extension from your browsers manually.

Safari:

1. Start Safari on your Mac, click Safari to open drop-down menu and choose Preferences
2. Click Extensions tab.
3. Find DisplayExplorer extension.
4. Click Uninstall button to remove it.

Google Chrome:

1. Start Google Chrome browser
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) chrome://extensions.
3. Find DisplayExplorer extension.
4. Click the trash can icon to remove it.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Start Mozilla Firefox browser.
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) about:addons.
3. Choose DisplayExplorer extension.
4. Click Disable or Remove button.

Reset browser settings

To finish DisplayExplorer removal, reset your browser settings to make sure, there are no leftover items in browser folders.

Reset Safari:

1. Start Safari on your Mac, click Safari to open drop-down menu and choose Preferences
2. Go to the Privacy section of Safari’s preferences.
3. Click Remove All Website Data button.
4. In the opened window, click Remove Now button to remove data stored by websites in Safari.
5. Go to the Advanced section of Safari’s preferences.
6. Click the Show Develop menu in menu bar option.
7. In the menu, click Develop and select Empty Caches from this menu.
8. Again, go to Safari menu and choose Clear History….
9. Choose to clear all history and click Clear History button.

Reset Google Chrome:

1. Start Google Chrome browser
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) chrome://settings.
3. Scroll down and find Show advanced settings link.
4. Click on it and scroll down to the bottom again.
5. Click Reset settings button and click Reset to confirm.

Reset Mozilla Firefox:

1. Start Mozilla Firefox browser.
2. In address box type (or copy-paste) about:support.
3. Click Refresh Firefox… button.
4. Click Refresh Firefox to confirm.

Remove following files and folders of DisplayExplorer


~/Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/Services/com.DisplayExplorer.service.app
~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.DisplayExplorer.service.plist
/Library/Application Support/.[random_string]/System/com.DisplayExplorer.system
/Library/LaunchDaemons/com.DisplayExplorer.system.plist


Download AdGuard for Mac to block malicious pop-ups, that promote DisplayExplorer

AdGuard is the best ad-blocker, internet filtering, and internet security application for macOS. It can cut out unwanted banners from site pages, block pop-ups, stop redirects, and prevent users from visiting potentially dangerous resources. Use it to stop ads promoting DisplayExplorer in browsers.

Download AdGuard for Mac

How to protect Mac OSX from adware, like DisplayExplorer

Mac OSX is known to be one of the safest operating systems, and for a long time, there was no need for antivirus products for Mac. But with the growing popularity of Mac computers and notebooks and evolving technology, viruses, trojans, adware, toolbars, hijackers, and other malware paved the way for Mac users. We recommend you to use one of the best anti-malware for Mac available — Malwarebytes for Mac.

Download Malwarebytes for Mac