Deleting Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 can be a bit tricky, but it’s not impossible. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to remove this built-in browser from your system. You’ll need to use some commands in the Command Prompt, but don’t worry—just follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have it done in no time.
Removing Edge from Windows 11
The following steps will help you uninstall Microsoft Edge from your Windows 11 system. Be sure to follow each instruction carefully to avoid any hiccups in the process.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
To start, you’ll need to launch the Command Prompt with admin privileges.
You can do this by typing “cmd” in the Windows search bar, right-clicking on “Command Prompt,” and selecting “Run as administrator.” This step ensures that you have the necessary permissions to uninstall system applications.
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installer Directory
Next, navigate to the folder where Edge is installed using the Command Prompt.
The command to use is: cd C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplication\Installer. Make sure to replace “ with the specific version number of Edge you have installed. You can find this number by checking Edge’s settings.
Step 3: Run the Uninstall Command
Now, run the command to uninstall Microsoft Edge.
Type in: setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall. This command will start the process of removing Edge from your system. The terms --system-level and --force-uninstall ensure that the browser is completely removed.
Step 4: Confirm Removal
After running the uninstall command, check to see if Edge has been removed.
Go to your Start menu and look for Edge. If it’s not there, you’ve successfully uninstalled it. If it still appears, you might need to restart your computer to finalize the removal process.
What happens after you’ve completed the action? Your system will no longer have Edge as its default browser. This means that any links you click will open in another browser you have installed, like Chrome or Firefox.
Tips for Removing Edge from Windows 11
- Ensure you have a backup of your important browser data, like bookmarks and passwords, before uninstalling.
- Consider using PowerShell if you encounter issues with Command Prompt; sometimes, PowerShell can handle tasks better.
- Remember that uninstalling Edge might affect certain Windows features; some apps rely on it.
- If you’re not comfortable using Command Prompt, get help from someone who is more experienced with computers.
- Keep in mind that Windows updates might reinstall Edge, so you may need to repeat these steps after major updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I uninstall Edge like other programs?
Microsoft Edge is integrated into Windows 11, so it requires using Command Prompt to remove it.
Will removing Edge affect my system?
It might impact certain Windows features that rely on Edge, but generally, it shouldn’t affect your system’s overall performance.
Can I reinstall Edge later?
Yes, you can always download and reinstall it from the Microsoft website if needed.
Is there a risk to using Command Prompt?
While there’s always a risk with command-line tools, as long as you follow instructions carefully, you should be fine.
Are there alternatives to removing Edge?
You can simply set another browser as your default, which doesn’t require removing Edge entirely.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Navigate to the Edge Installer Directory.
- Run the Uninstall Command.
- Confirm Removal.
Conclusion
So, now you know how to delete Edge from Windows 11. It’s a bit like pulling a stubborn weed from your garden—necessary for some, but not without its challenges. While Edge is a part of the Windows ecosystem, you have the power to decide if it’s right for you or not. If you ever miss Edge or need it back, remember you can always reinstall it later.
Navigating the digital landscapes of Windows 11 without Edge can be liberating for those who prefer other browsers. You might face a few bumps along the way, like some Windows features acting up, but the road to browser independence is wide open.
As always, keep your software up to date and ensure you have backups of your important browser data. Feel empowered by your tech choices, and remember, technology is here to serve you—not the other way around. If you found this guide helpful, why not explore more tech tips and tricks? There’s always something new to learn in the world of technology.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.