How do I remove Noctalia from CachyOS safely?

Check which packages are installed before removing anything. The shell package may be required by a CachyOS Noctalia integration package, so a plain removal can be blocked. Remove or replace that dependent package as well, then use pacman’s dependency-aware removal options and review the proposed changes before confirming.

Get your replacement workflow running first. Noctalia can cover several desktop functions, so removing it may leave you without a panel, launcher, or other pieces you relied on. Set up and test Waybar, Fuzzel, and any needed Hyprland configuration, then disable Noctalia’s startup and remove the packages you no longer need.

You can remove it, but don’t assume uninstalling the package cleans every setting. After switching, check your user configuration and cache directories for Noctalia leftovers and delete only what you recognize. Keep a copy of any config you might want to restore.