Automated MATLAB Uninstallation: Uninstall with Ease Using Scripts or Tools

# 1. Overview of MATLAB Uninstallation

Uninstalling MATLAB involves the removal of the MATLAB software and associated files and settings from your computer. Reasons for uninstalling MATLAB may include upgrading to a new version, freeing up disk space, or resolving software issues. Understanding the overview of the uninstallation process is crucial for ensuring a smooth and complete removal. This chapter will provide a general introduction to MATLAB uninstallation, including methods and common problems.

# 2. Uninstalling MATLAB Using Scripts

### 2.1 The Principle of MATLAB Uninstallation Scripts

A MATLAB uninstallation script is a text file containing instructions for removing MATLAB from the system. These instructions typically run on Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt. The operation of the uninstallation script is as follows:

1. **Finding the MATLAB installation directory:** The script first locates the MATLAB installation directory, usually `C:\Program Files\MATLAB\R2023a` or similar paths.
2. **Removing MATLAB files and folders:** The script then uses the `Remove-Item` command to delete the MATLAB installation directory and all its subdirectories and files.
3. **Updating the registry and environment variables:** Lastly, the script updates the registry and environment variables to remove entries related to MATLAB. This ensures that MATLAB is no longer recognized by the system.

### 2.2 Writing a Custom Uninstallation Script

#### 2.2.1 Finding the MATLAB Installation Directory

# Get the MATLAB installation directory
$matlabDir = Get-ItemProperty HKLM:\SOFTWARE\MathWorks\MATLAB -Name "MATLABRoot" | Select-Object -ExpandProperty MATLABRoot

#### 2.2.2 Removing MATLAB Files and Folders

# Delete the MATLAB installation directory
Remove-Item -Recurse -Force $matlabDir

#### 2.2.3 Updating the Registry and Environment Variables

# Remove registry item
Remove-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\MathWorks\MATLAB" -Name "MATLABRoot"

# Remove environment variable
Remove-Item -Path "HKCU:\Environment" -Name "MATLABROOT"

### 2.3 Running the Uninstallation Script

To run the uninstallation script, follow these steps:

1. Open Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt.
2. Navigate to the directory containing the uninstallation script.
3. Run the script, for example: `powershell -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -File uninstall_matlab.ps1`.
4. Follow the prompts in the script to complete the uninstallation process.

# 3. Uninstalling MATLAB Using Tools

### 3.1 Official Uninstallation Tools

MATLAB offers a series of official uninstallation tools that can simplify the uninstallation process.

#### 3.1.1 MATLAB Uninstaller

The MATLAB Uninstaller is a command-line tool that can be used to uninstall MATLAB from the command prompt. To use this tool, follow these steps:

1. Open Command Prompt.
2. Navigate to the MATLAB installation directory.
3. Run the following command:

uninstall_matlab.exe

4. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process.

#### 3.1.2 MATLAB Uninstallation Wizard

The MATLAB Uninstallation Wizard is a graphical user interface (GUI) tool that can be used to uninstall MATLAB from the Windows Control Panel. To use this tool, follow these steps:

1. Open Windows Control Panel.
2. Select "