Developer Tools

Can I delete MySQL Workbench from my Mac?

Yes, you can delete it

You can delete MySQL Workbench without losing your data, as removing the app does not delete its user files. The Community Edition is free, so there is no license to deactivate before uninstalling.

Last updated: October 31, 20262 min read

See how much space MySQL Workbench really takes before you decide

MySQL Workbench data usually takes 100 MB – 2 GB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.

Scan your Mac free

Free scan · No account · Nothing is deleted without your OK · Moves to the Trash first · macOS 14+

Application: MySQL Workbench
Typical data size: 100 MB – 2 GB
Category: Developer Tools
File Location: ~/Library/Application Support/MySQL/Workbench

What you lose and keep when deleting MySQL Workbench

Specific to MySQL Workbench

Deleting the app itself does not remove your connections, SQL history, or snippets, which reside in ~/Library/Application Support/MySQL/Workbench. These files remain on your Mac until you manually delete them. The MySQL server is a separate installation and stays unaffected. Typical data size ranges from 100 MB – 2 GB. Window positions are rebuilt automatically, so no permanent loss occurs there.

Where your MySQL Workbench data lives

These folders hold your own MySQL Workbench data. Deleting the app leaves them in place; removing them is what actually deletes it.

~/Library/Application Support/MySQL/Workbench App data · connections, SQL history, snippets, scripts and logs Back up first: your data

License: MySQL Workbench Community Edition is free.
Your files: connections.xml, sql_history and your snippets are in the Workbench folder.

Precautions before deleting MySQL Workbench

If you plan to remove the data folders later, back up your own files first. Export connections or copy connections.xml to save them externally. Saved SQL scripts and snippets must be copied from the Workbench folder to avoid loss. Stored passwords live in the macOS Keychain, so they are not deleted with the app. Quit the application before removing any files to prevent corruption.

Export connections using the server connections export option.Copy saved SQL scripts and snippets from the Workbench folder.Note that stored passwords remain in the Keychain.Quit the app before removing its files.

0 of 4 done

How to delete MySQL Workbench completely

Quit MySQL Workbench, move it to the Trash, then remove what it left in ~/Library/Application Support/MySQL/Workbench. The full step-by-step guide:

Try it without risk

Download and scan for freeSee every MySQL Workbench file and its size. No account needed.
Clean free for 7 daysStart the 7-day free trial of the yearly plan inside the app.
Keep it or cancelCancel in your App Store settings at least 24 hours before the trial ends and you won't be charged.

Download free and scan

After the free trial, Pro costs $39.99 per year in your country's App Store; cancel any time.

Frequently asked questions

Will deleting MySQL Workbench delete my files?

No. Removing the app doesn't touch documents you saved in other folders. Only the app and, if you remove them, its own support files are deleted.

Will deleting the app remove my MySQL server?

No, the MySQL server is a separate installation and remains untouched when you delete the app.

Do I lose my saved SQL history?

No, SQL history stays in the data folder unless you explicitly delete those files.