Removing Internet Explorer from Windows 10 using PowerShell is a straightforward process. By following a series of simple commands in PowerShell, you can effectively remove this outdated browser from your system. Let’s dive into the steps to make it happen.
How to Remove Internet Explorer from Windows 10 PowerShell
In this section, you’ll learn how to remove Internet Explorer from your Windows 10 system using PowerShell. This involves running specific commands that will disable and remove Internet Explorer. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open PowerShell as an Administrator
First, you need to open PowerShell with administrative privileges.
To do this, right-click the Start button and select "Windows PowerShell (Admin)". Ensure you see "Administrator" in the window title.
Step 2: Check Installed Features
Next, check which features are installed on your system.
Type Get-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online | where FeatureName -like "*Internet-Explorer*", and press Enter. This command lists optional features and helps confirm Internet Explorer’s presence.
Step 3: Disable Internet Explorer
Now, disable the Internet Explorer feature.
Run the command Disable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64 -Online. This command will disable the Internet Explorer feature on your system.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
After disabling the feature, restart your computer.
You can do this by typing Restart-Computer in PowerShell and hitting Enter. This ensures that all changes are applied correctly.
Step 5: Verify Removal
Finally, verify that Internet Explorer has been removed.
Open PowerShell again and use the command Get-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online | where FeatureName -like "*Internet-Explorer*". If "Disabled" appears next to Internet Explorer, you’re good to go.
After completing these steps, Internet Explorer will be disabled and removed from your Windows 10 system.
Tips for Removing Internet Explorer from Windows 10 PowerShell
- Backup Your Data: Always back up important data before making system changes.
- Ensure Administrator Rights: Running PowerShell as an administrator is crucial.
- Check Other Dependencies: Some older applications might still rely on Internet Explorer.
- Use Commands Carefully: Mistyped commands can lead to unwanted results.
- Know How to Re-enable: If needed, you can re-enable Internet Explorer using
Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64 -Online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall Internet Explorer after removing it?
Yes, you can reinstall Internet Explorer by using the command Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64 -Online.
Will removing Internet Explorer affect other parts of Windows 10?
For most users, removing Internet Explorer will not affect the system. However, some legacy applications might depend on it.
Do I need to restart my computer after removing Internet Explorer?
Yes, restarting your computer ensures all changes are correctly applied.
Is it safe to remove Internet Explorer?
Generally, it is safe to remove Internet Explorer, especially if you use modern browsers like Edge, Chrome, or Firefox.
How do I confirm Internet Explorer has been removed?
Run Get-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online | where FeatureName -like "*Internet-Explorer*" in PowerShell. If it shows "Disabled," then it has been removed.
Summary
- Step 1: Open PowerShell as an Administrator.
- Step 2: Check Installed Features.
- Step 3: Disable Internet Explorer.
- Step 4: Restart Your Computer.
- Step 5: Verify Removal.
Conclusion
Removing Internet Explorer from Windows 10 using PowerShell is a handy trick for those looking to streamline their system and remove unsupported software. By following these straightforward steps, you can easily disable and remove Internet Explorer.
Remember, it’s always good practice to ensure you know how to re-enable features if needed and to understand the potential impacts on your system. If you encounter issues, refer back to the tips and FAQs sections for additional guidance.
For further reading, consider looking up more advanced PowerShell commands or exploring the benefits of other modern browsers. Removing Internet Explorer is a step towards a cleaner, more efficient system, so take control and optimize your Windows 10 experience today.
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.