If you’re finding Microsoft Edge to be less useful or simply prefer another browser, you might be wondering how to uninstall it from your Windows 11 system. Luckily, it’s possible to remove Edge with a few steps. This guide will walk you through the process.
How to Uninstall Edge in Windows 11
Before diving in, it’s important to know that Microsoft doesn’t make it super simple to uninstall Edge since it’s deeply integrated into the Windows ecosystem. However, with a few command line tricks, you can get the job done.
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an Administrator
Access the start menu, type "cmd", right-click on Command Prompt, and choose "Run as administrator".
Opening the Command Prompt as an administrator is crucial because it gives you the necessary permissions to uninstall system apps like Edge. Make sure to confirm any UAC prompts.
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installation Directory
In the Command Prompt, type cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdgeApplicationxx.x.xxxx.xxInstaller
and hit enter. Replace xx.x.xxxx.xx
with your Edge version number.
To find your specific version number, open Edge, click the three dots in the upper right corner, go to "Help and Feedback," then "About Microsoft Edge." Note down the version number displayed.
Step 3: Execute the Uninstall Command
Type setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall
and press enter.
This command forces the uninstallation of Edge, making sure that it’s removed from your system entirely. The verbose-logging flag helps to provide detailed logs in case you need to troubleshoot any issues.
Step 4: Confirm the Uninstallation
Check your installed apps list to ensure Edge is no longer present.
Head over to Settings > Apps > Apps & features and scroll down to verify that Edge has been removed. If it’s still there, restart your computer and check again.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Reboot your system to finalize the uninstallation process.
A restart helps to clear any leftover files and ensures that Edge is completely removed from your system.
Once you complete these steps, Microsoft Edge will be uninstalled from your Windows 11 machine, freeing up space and possibly speeding up your system.
Tips on How to Uninstall Edge in Windows 11
- Create a System Restore Point: Before making any changes, create a system restore point in case something goes wrong.
- Backup Your Data: Ensure you have backups of your bookmarks, passwords, and other data if you were using Edge.
- Alternative Browsers: Install another browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Brave before uninstalling Edge to avoid being left without a browser.
- Regular Updates: Keep your new browser updated to maintain security and performance.
- Disable Updates: You might want to disable Windows Update temporarily to ensure Edge doesn’t get reinstalled automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Yes, it’s generally safe, but be cautious as Edge is integrated with Windows, and some features may rely on it.
Will uninstalling Edge affect my Windows 11 performance?
Unlikely, but some Windows features might open more slowly or use another default app.
Do I need admin rights to uninstall Edge?
Yes, administrative rights are required to execute the necessary commands.
Can I reinstall Edge if needed?
Yes, you can reinstall Edge by downloading it from the Microsoft website.
Will uninstalling Edge delete my bookmarks and history?
Yes, uninstalling Edge will remove your data unless you back it up or sync it with a Microsoft account.
Summary of Steps
- Open Command Prompt as an Administrator.
- Navigate to the Edge Installation Directory.
- Execute the Uninstall Command.
- Confirm the Uninstallation.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 can seem a little daunting, but following these clear steps should help you get through it without a hitch. Remember to always backup important data before making significant changes to your system. If you run into any issues, don’t hesitate to revisit the steps or consult additional resources.
For more insights into managing your Windows 11 system, keep checking our site for new articles and tips. If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might be looking for ways to improve their Windows experience.