Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 can be a bit tricky since it’s tightly integrated into the operating system. However, with a few steps, you can remove it from your computer. First, you need to open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Then, navigate to the Edge installation folder and execute a command to uninstall it. This process will help you remove Edge from your system without affecting other applications.
How to Uninstall Edge on Windows 10
Uninstalling Edge from your Windows 10 system involves using the Command Prompt to access and remove the program. Follow these steps to make Edge disappear from your PC:
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
To start, open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
This is vital because standard user permissions won’t allow you to remove system-installed applications like Edge. You can do this by typing “cmd” in the search bar, right-clicking on “Command Prompt,” and selecting “Run as administrator.”
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installation Directory
Next, you need to find the directory where Microsoft Edge is installed.
Typically, Edge is located in the “C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplication” folder. Use the ‘cd’ command in Command Prompt to navigate there. This step tells your computer you’re about to make changes in this specific directory.
Step 3: Identify the Edge Version
Once inside the Edge folder, identify the version number of the installed Edge.
You can do this by typing “dir” in the Command Prompt and looking for a folder with a version number like “89.0.774.45”. Knowing this version is crucial because you’ll use it in the next command to uninstall Edge.
Step 4: Uninstall Microsoft Edge
Finally, execute the uninstall command using the identified version.
Type “setup.exe –uninstall –system-level –verbose-logging –force-uninstall” and press Enter. This command forces the uninstallation process to kick off, removing Edge from your system.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
After you’ve uninstalled Edge, restart your computer.
This ensures that all changes are properly applied and your system is running smoothly without any lingering Edge processes.
Once you complete these steps, Microsoft Edge will be removed from your Windows 10 system. You might notice that browsing the web with Edge is no longer an option, and shortcuts associated with Edge may also disappear.
Tips for Uninstalling Edge on Windows 10
- Ensure all Edge windows are closed before starting the uninstallation process to avoid conflicts.
- Backup important data, as uninstalling system apps can sometimes lead to unexpected changes.
- Use a reliable search engine or tool if you’re unsure about navigating the Command Prompt.
- Remember that uninstalling Edge could affect apps that rely on it, so be cautious if you have such applications.
- If you want to reinstall Edge later, you can download it from the official Microsoft website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I uninstall Edge through Control Panel?
Microsoft Edge is a system app, which means it’s integrated into Windows 10 and not listed in Control Panel for standard uninstallation.
Can removing Edge affect other Windows 10 apps?
Yes, some apps that rely on Edge for web-related tasks might be affected, so check your apps for any dependencies before removal.
What if I want Edge back after uninstalling it?
You can download the latest version of Microsoft Edge from the official Microsoft website and reinstall it on your system.
Is using Command Prompt safe for uninstalling apps?
Yes, but ensure you’re following the steps exactly as incorrect commands can affect system performance.
Will uninstalling Edge improve my computer’s speed?
Not necessarily. While removing unused programs might help, Edge itself is designed to be lightweight and efficient.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Navigate to Edge Installation Directory.
- Identify the Edge Version.
- Uninstall Microsoft Edge.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 isn’t as daunting as it may seem. While Edge is a core part of Windows 10, these steps allow you to remove it safely and effectively with minimal risk. It’s all about understanding the process and executing each step carefully. As you navigate through these instructions, remember that removing Edge might affect certain functionalities, especially if other applications depend on it for web services. But don’t worry—if you ever change your mind, reinstalling Edge is just a download away.
This journey to uninstall Edge may have sparked an interest in diving deeper into customizing your Windows 10 experience. Learning how different components interact with each other can empower you to make more informed decisions about your system’s setup. Whether it’s experimenting with different browsers or exploring alternative software solutions, the key is to ensure your computer works for you, not the other way around.
Feel free to explore other tech tutorials to expand your knowledge. Keeping up with tech trends and troubleshooting techniques can transform you from a casual user into a savvy tech enthusiast.
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.