What to do if you have two versions of the Dropbox desktop app installed on your macOS

This article explains what to do if you find two versions of the Dropbox desktop app for macOS installed on your computer. It includes information on why it happens, and how to resolve it. 

Why do I have two versions of the Dropbox desktop app?

The Dropbox desktop app should only be installed in Applications on your Mac computer. If your Dropbox app can’t update itself due to permission issues (which often happens on company-managed computers), the app installs a second copy in the following location in your home folder:

To temporarily view all hidden files, including the Library folder: 

1. Open Finder. 
2. Use command-shift-period to reveal all hidden files and folders in the current Finder window, including your Library folder.

To hide the files and folders again, use command-shift-period again.
 

What happens if I have two versions of the Dropbox desktop app installed?

This type of dual installation may cause issues, including:

• Sync issues
• Update problems
• Unexpected app behavior 
• Your device becomes ineligible for FileProvider migration
   

How to update the app if you have admin permissions 

If your admin has configured your machine to update the Dropbox app automatically, it’ll download the latest version once it’s released. If this isn’t happening, you may need to give the Dropbox app permission to auto-update. 

1. Click ☑ (Dropbox) in the menu bar in the upper-right corner of your screen. 
2. If you see the message “Dropbox isn’t automatically updating” when you open the app, click Update automatically to allow automatic updates. 
    

How to update the app on a managed device

If you’re using a company-managed device, you may not have admin permissions or be able to make any changes to your device. If you can’t reinstall or update the app, you should contact your IT administrator.

Admins can use an enterprise PKG installer to install a machine-level auto-updater for all users. This will automatically install the latest version of the Dropbox app.