Run the log collector tool to take a backup of your log files. This allows Adobe Support to assist you if you encounter an error with the Creative Cloud Cleaner tool and need to contact us.
Last updated on
Sep 2, 2025
Follow these steps to prepare to run the Creative Cloud Cleaner tool and resolve installation issues.
The Creative Cloud Cleaner tool is a utility for experienced users to clean up corrupted installations.
When to use the Creative Cloud Cleaner tool
If you've already tried common solutions but are still experiencing issues, use the Creative Cloud Cleaner tool in these cases:
- You can't update or install Creative Cloud apps after attempting to repair or uninstall the Creative Cloud desktop app.
- You need to completely remove older Adobe software.
- The Creative Cloud app fails to launch even after uninstalling and reinstalling.
- You're unable to sign in to Adobe apps after multiple attempts and trying standard fixes.
- Despite trying typical solutions, you can't connect to Adobe servers or have limited access to Adobe apps and services.
Prepare to run the Creative Cloud Cleaner tool
Before running the Creative Cloud Cleaner tool, close all Creative Cloud apps and the Creative Cloud desktop app, and back up your files and folders to prevent potential data loss.
Close Creative Cloud Core Service and Adobe Content Synchronizer in the Activity Monitor.
Save a copy of the file found at:
- Windows:
C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Adobe\AdobeSync\CoreSync
C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Adobe\CoreSync - macOS:
~/Library/Application Support/Adobe/CoreSync/
Note
If the library content is hidden, you may need to troubleshoot library access issues for macOS X 10.7 and later. In case you're running out of space, go to CoreSync, locate the cloudnative folder, and save a copy. For Windows, the cloudnative folder may be present in either one or both of the listed folders.
Close the remaining Adobe background processes in Task Manager in Windows and Activity Monitor in macOS:
- Creative Cloud
- Creative Cloud Content Manager
- Creative Cloud Libraries Synchronizer
- Adobe Content Synchronizer helper
- Creative Cloud Interprocess Service
- armsvc.exe
- AGS Service
Save a copy of all content stored in Adobe product folders, including third-party plug-ins and preference files.
For example, you might have used a third-party plug-in for Adobe XD or saved a Photoshop workspace. Keep a copy of the folders where you have them. Learn more about migrating presets, actions, and settings in Photoshop.
If you’re removing older Adobe apps, save a copy of your old installer files.
Adobe only provides downloads for the two most recent versions of your Creative Cloud apps. If you need access to older versions, don't remove them without first ensuring you have a means to reinstall them, such as discs or previously saved installers, as Adobe no longer offers downloads for older versions.
Ensure you've completed all the necessary precautions by making recommended backups before you run the tool.
