Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 using PowerShell might seem tricky, but it’s pretty simple. You need to use a few specific commands in PowerShell to uninstall Edge. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring you know exactly what to do and what to expect.
How to Permanently Remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 Using PowerShell
Before we dive in, it’s important to know that following these steps will remove Microsoft Edge from your Windows 11 system permanently. PowerShell is a powerful tool, so be sure to follow the steps carefully.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator
Open PowerShell with admin rights by searching for "PowerShell" in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting "Run as Administrator."
Running PowerShell as an administrator is crucial; otherwise, the commands you enter won’t have the necessary permissions to make system changes.
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installation Folder
Enter the command cd "C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplication\Installer"
where “ is the version of Edge installed.
You need to replace “ with the actual version number of your Edge installation. You can find this by navigating to the folder manually or looking it up online if you’re unsure.
Step 3: Execute the Uninstall Command
Type the command .setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall
and press Enter.
This command will initiate the uninstallation process. The --system-level
flag ensures it’s removed for all users, and --force-uninstall
makes sure it’s completely uninstalled.
Step 4: Verify Edge Removal
After the command runs successfully, verify that Microsoft Edge has been removed by checking the Start menu or navigating to the installation folder.
If Edge is still present in some form, you may need to restart your system or repeat the steps to ensure complete removal.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to complete the removal process and ensure all changes take effect.
A system restart will help clear out any remaining components that might still be running in the background, ensuring a clean removal.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Microsoft Edge will be permanently removed from your Windows 11 system. You won’t find it in your list of installed programs, and it won’t open when you click on web links.
Tips for How to Permanently Remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 Using PowerShell
- Always back up your data before making major changes to your system.
- Make sure you are using the correct version number for the Edge installation folder.
- You can check for the version number of Microsoft Edge by opening Edge and navigating to Settings > About Microsoft Edge.
- If you encounter errors, ensure you are running PowerShell as an administrator.
- After removing Edge, consider installing an alternative browser like Chrome or Firefox for your web browsing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11?
Yes, but only if you have an alternate web browser installed. Edge is integrated with some Windows features, so removing it could affect certain functions.
Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge after removing it?
Yes, you can download and reinstall Microsoft Edge from the official Microsoft website if you change your mind.
Will removing Edge affect my Windows updates?
No, removing Edge will not affect the ability to receive Windows updates. However, some updates may attempt to reinstall it.
How do I find the version number of Microsoft Edge?
Open Edge, click on the three dots in the upper-right corner, go to Settings, and click on "About Microsoft Edge." The version number will be listed there.
Do I need admin rights to remove Microsoft Edge?
Yes, you need to run PowerShell as an administrator to have the necessary permissions to uninstall Edge.
Summary
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
- Navigate to the Edge Installation Folder.
- Execute the Uninstall Command.
- Verify Edge Removal.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 using PowerShell is straightforward if you follow the steps carefully. PowerShell commands can feel like navigating a labyrinth, but with the right guidance, you can make your way through without hitting any dead ends. Remember to double-check your steps and ensure you have an alternative browser ready to go. If you ever need to reinstall Edge, it’s just a download away from the Microsoft website. For more deep dives into Windows tweaks and tips, keep exploring and don’t hesitate to seek out official documentation when needed. Happy computing!