> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.skylum.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.skylum.com/how-to-reinstall-luminar-for-desktop.md).

# How to Reinstall Luminar for Desktop?

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Note:** Some interface details and visuals in this article may differ from the latest version of Luminar for Desktop. To see the current interface, visit the [Luminar for Desktop walkthrough](https://app.gitbook.com/o/ce1mezuaelhjGQ6S9kTM/s/ynrwC8fnGXULbglwsNaw/~/edit/~/changes/156/how-to-use-luminar-neo/luminar-for-desktop-walkthrough).
{% endhint %}

Sometimes, Luminar for Desktop can run into unexpected issues –become slow, crash frequently, or certain features stop working correctly. While troubleshooting steps often help, sometimes, one of the most effective solutions is a **reinstall**. This process removes the existing application files and settings completely, allowing you to start fresh with a new installation, which can often resolve persistent problems. However, if you are unsure, please contact our Support Team at <https://skylum.com/support/contact>, and we'll look at your case closely.

### :point\_up:Before You Start: Back Up Your Catalog

Before you uninstall anything, it’s important to **back up your catalog** to preserve your edits and saved work. The reinstall process will remove all application files and settings, so having a backup ensures nothing is lost.

{% hint style="info" %}
Refer to this article on backing up the Catalog: [How to backup your photos](/something-useful/how-to-backup-your-photos.md)
{% endhint %}

Also, keep in mind that simply deleting a shortcut or dragging the app to the trash isn't enough. You’ll want to fully uninstall the app to remove any lingering configuration files that might be causing issues

### :tools: How to Uninstall Luminar for Desktop

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="on Windows" %}

1. Quit Luminar for Desktop if it's running.
2. Go to **Windows Settings > Apps > Apps & features**.
3. Find Luminar for Desktop in the list, click it (or the three dots next to it), and select **Uninstall**. Follow the prompts.
4. **Restart your PC.**

{% @arcade/embed url="<https://app.arcade.software/share/guk8SqErhpd6AZo4G5dc>" flowId="guk8SqErhpd6AZo4G5dc" %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="on macOS" %}

1. Quit Luminar for Desktop if it's running. You can do it either via the app or by right-clicking the Dock icon > Quit.
2. Open **Finder** and go to the **Applications** folder.
3. Drag the Luminar for Desktop application icon to the **Trash**.
4. Empty the Trash (Right-click the Trash icon in the Dock > Empty Trash).
5. **Restart your Mac.**

{% @arcade/embed url="<https://app.arcade.software/share/jn04qGZpQAWJNlkVcDSd>" flowId="jn04qGZpQAWJNlkVcDSd" %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

### :arrow\_down: How to install Luminar for Desktop

Once the app is uninstalled, you can download a fresh copy from your Skylum account:

1. Go to [**skylum.com**](https://skylum.com/user/login?utm_source=support\&utm_medium=organic\&utm_campaign=content) and log in to your **Skylum Account**.
2. Navigate to the [**My Software**](https://skylum.com/account/my-software?utm_source=support\&utm_medium=organic\&utm_campaign=content) tab.
3. Find **Luminar for Desktop** in your list of products and click the **Download** button for your operating system.
4. Install & activate the app.
5. You now have a clean installation of Luminar for Desktop. If you continue experiencing issues, feel free to [**reach out to our Support Team**](https://skylum.com/support/contact?utm_source=support\&utm_medium=organic\&utm_campaign=content) — we’re happy to help you further.

{% hint style="info" %}
Refer to these articles on how to download & activate the app:

:point\_right: [Downloading and Installing](/getting-started/overview/downloading-and-installing.md)

:point\_right: [Activation Process](/getting-started/activation-process.md)
{% endhint %}


---

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