Uninstalling the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 might seem tricky, but it’s totally doable with a few steps. This guide will walk you through removing it using PowerShell, providing clear instructions for each part of the process. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have it uninstalled in no time.
How to Uninstall Microsoft Store on Windows 11
Uninstalling the Microsoft Store from Windows 11 involves using PowerShell, a powerful command-line tool. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Open PowerShell as an administrator
Right-click the Start button and choose "Windows Terminal (Admin)" from the menu.
Opening PowerShell with admin rights is crucial because you’ll be using commands that require higher privileges. If you start PowerShell without admin rights, you’ll get errors when trying to uninstall the Microsoft Store.
Step 2: Check the installed Microsoft Store package
Type Get-AppxPackage *WindowsStore*
in the PowerShell window and press Enter.
This command lists all the details about the Microsoft Store package currently installed on your system. Look for the PackageFullName value, as you’ll need this information for the next step.
Step 3: Uninstall the Microsoft Store
Enter Remove-AppxPackage
in PowerShell, replacing “ with the value you found in the previous step.
This command will uninstall the Microsoft Store from your system. Be careful when typing the command to ensure there are no errors. Once executed, PowerShell will begin the removal process, which might take a few moments.
Step 4: Confirm the uninstallation
Run the command Get-AppxPackage *WindowsStore*
again to make sure the Microsoft Store is no longer listed.
If the Microsoft Store doesn’t appear in the list, it means the uninstallation was successful. If it still appears, double-check the PackageFullName and try the command again.
Step 5: Close PowerShell
Finally, type exit
and press Enter to close the PowerShell window.
Closing PowerShell ensures that all processes related to the command execution are properly terminated.
Once you complete these steps, the Microsoft Store will be uninstalled from your Windows 11 system. You will no longer see it in your apps list, and it won’t be available for use.
Tips for Uninstalling Microsoft Store on Windows 11
- Backup Your Data: Always back up your important data before making major changes to your system.
- Check Dependencies: Some apps rely on the Microsoft Store for updates. Ensure these apps have alternative update methods.
- System Restore Point: Create a system restore point before uninstalling the Microsoft Store, so you can revert changes if needed.
- Reinstallation: If you change your mind later, you can reinstall the Microsoft Store using PowerShell or the Windows media creation tool.
- Third-Party Alternatives: Consider using third-party app stores or direct downloads if you need to replace the Microsoft Store functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall the Microsoft Store after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can reinstall the Microsoft Store using PowerShell commands or the Windows media creation tool.
Will uninstalling the Microsoft Store affect my other apps?
It might affect apps that rely on the Microsoft Store for updates. Check if your apps have alternative update methods before proceeding.
Is there a way to hide the Microsoft Store instead of uninstalling it?
You can disable the Microsoft Store through Group Policy or Registry Editor, which hides it without uninstalling.
Do I need technical skills to uninstall the Microsoft Store?
Basic familiarity with PowerShell is helpful, but this guide provides clear steps that most users can follow.
Is it safe to uninstall the Microsoft Store?
Yes, it is safe as long as you follow the steps correctly and ensure you don’t rely on the Store for critical updates.
Summary
- Open PowerShell as an administrator.
- Check the installed Microsoft Store package.
- Uninstall the Microsoft Store.
- Confirm the uninstallation.
- Close PowerShell.
Conclusion
Uninstalling the Microsoft Store from Windows 11 might seem daunting, but with the right steps, it’s a straightforward process. By following this guide, you’ll be able to remove the Microsoft Store effectively and ensure your system runs smoothly without it. Remember, while the Microsoft Store is a handy tool, it’s not a necessity for everyone. If you ever change your mind, reinstalling it is just as easy. For further reading, consider looking into alternative app stores or ways to manage your apps directly through their respective websites. Happy computing!