Uninstalling apps in Windows 10 using Command Prompt (CMD) might sound a bit techy, but trust me, it’s not rocket science. With a few taps on your keyboard, you can remove unwanted software in no time. This article will guide you through the exact steps to do it, and along the way, I’ll throw in some handy tips and tricks to make the process smoother.
How to Uninstall App in Windows 10 Using CMD
The steps below will show you how to uninstall an app using the Command Prompt in Windows 10. This method is particularly useful when you’re dealing with stubborn programs that just won’t go away through the usual uninstallation process.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
To get started, you need to open Command Prompt with admin rights.
Right-click on the Start button at the bottom-left corner of your screen and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)". This ensures you have the necessary permissions to uninstall apps.
Step 2: List Installed Programs
You need to see a list of installed programs to find the one you want to uninstall.
Type wmic product get name and hit Enter. This command will fetch and display all the installed programs on your machine.
Step 3: Select the Program to Uninstall
Next, identify the exact name of the program you want to remove.
Find the program name from the list that appears. Be precise when noting down the name, as you’ll need it for the uninstallation command.
Step 4: Uninstall the Program
Now, it’s time to remove the program.
Type wmic product where name="ProgramName" call uninstall and press Enter. Replace "ProgramName" with the exact name of the program you noted earlier.
Step 5: Confirm the Uninstallation
Complete the process by confirming the action.
When prompted with "Y/N," type "Y" and press Enter. This confirms that you want to proceed with the uninstallation.
After completing these steps, the program will be removed from your Windows 10 system. You might need to restart your computer for the changes to take full effect.
Tips for Uninstalling App in Windows 10 Using CMD
- Make sure you run CMD as an administrator to avoid permission issues.
- Double-check the program name in the list to avoid accidentally removing the wrong software.
- If the list command (
wmic product get name) takes time, be patient; it’s fetching all installed programs. - You can also use
wmic product get name, versionto see the program versions, which can be helpful in identifying the correct software. - If an uninstallation fails, try using Safe Mode to remove the program, as it might bypass some running processes that are blocking the uninstallation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I uninstall built-in Windows 10 apps using CMD?
Generally, built-in apps require different commands or tools. The steps above focus on third-party programs.
What if the uninstallation fails?
If the uninstallation fails, try running the Command Prompt in Safe Mode or check for any running processes related to the software.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Restarting your computer is often a good idea to ensure all changes take effect and any remnants of the program are cleared.
Is there a way to reinstall the app I uninstalled?
Yes, you can reinstall the app using its installer or by downloading it again from the official website or the Windows Store.
Are there risks to uninstalling programs using CMD?
There are minimal risks if you follow the steps correctly. However, always double-check the program name to avoid removing essential software.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- List installed programs with
wmic product get name. - Select the program to uninstall.
- Uninstall the program using
wmic product where name="ProgramName" call uninstall. - Confirm the uninstallation.
Conclusion
Uninstalling apps in Windows 10 using CMD isn’t as tricky as it sounds. By following the steps I’ve outlined, you can quickly and efficiently remove those pesky programs that just won’t budge through regular methods. Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned pro, this method is a useful trick to have up your sleeve.
Remember, the key is to ensure you have administrative privileges and to double-check the program name to avoid any mishaps. If you do run into issues, don’t hesitate to try troubleshooting steps like Safe Mode or checking for lingering processes.
For further reading, you might want to explore other CMD commands that can help you manage your Windows environment more efficiently. Happy uninstalling!
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.