Uninstalling Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 can feel a bit like trying to unstick gum from the bottom of your shoe—it’s not immediately obvious, but it’s doable with the right steps. You have to dive into the Windows settings and use some commands in the Command Prompt to get rid of it. Once you’re done, you’ll have a Windows 11 system free of Microsoft Edge, ready for you to browse the web your way.
How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the straightforward steps you need to take to uninstall Microsoft Edge from your Windows 11 computer. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a system without Edge in no time.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Right-click on the Start button and select “Windows Terminal (Admin)” from the menu.
Opening the Command Prompt is like unlocking a treasure chest of possibilities on your computer. By choosing the “Admin” option, you ensure you have the necessary permissions to make significant changes, like uninstalling built-in applications.
Step 2: Navigate to the Microsoft Edge Directory
Enter the command cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdgeApplicationxx.xxx.xxInstaller and press Enter. Replace “xx.xxx.xx” with your specific version number.
Finding the right directory is crucial because this is where all the files related to Microsoft Edge are stored. This command takes you straight to the heart of Edge’s installation folder.
Step 3: Enter the Uninstall Command
Type setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall and press Enter.
This command tells your computer to perform the uninstall process. The “force-uninstall” part ensures that the program is completely removed, bypassing any standard uninstallation protocol that might try to keep Edge on your system.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
Once the command has successfully run, restart your computer to complete the process.
Rebooting your computer might seem like a mundane task, but it’s essential to make sure all changes are applied correctly. Think of it as the final handshake that seals the deal on your Edge uninstallation.
Step 5: Verify Microsoft Edge is Uninstalled
Check your list of installed programs to confirm that Microsoft Edge has been removed.
Seeing is believing! Double-checking that Edge is gone gives you peace of mind and confirms that your efforts were successful.
After you’ve completed these steps, Microsoft Edge will be uninstalled from your Windows 11 system. Your computer might feel a little different, but don’t worry, it’s just getting used to life without Edge. Enjoy using your preferred browser to surf the web!
Tips for Uninstalling Microsoft Edge from Windows 11
- Always back up any important data before making significant changes to your system.
- If you’re uncomfortable with using the Command Prompt, consider seeking help from someone familiar with it.
- Ensure your Windows operating system is up-to-date to prevent any compatibility issues.
- You can reinstall Microsoft Edge through the Microsoft Store if you change your mind later.
- Be patient when running commands, as it might take a moment for them to execute fully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can reinstall Microsoft Edge by downloading it from the Microsoft Store or from the official Edge website.
Will uninstalling Edge affect other Windows functions?
Uninstalling Edge won’t affect core Windows functions, but some features that rely on it might not work properly until you reinstall it.
Do I need to uninstall Edge before installing another browser?
No, you can have multiple browsers installed on your system without needing to uninstall Edge.
Is it safe to uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Yes, as long as you follow the correct steps, uninstalling Edge is safe.
What should I do if I encounter errors during uninstallation?
Ensure you followed all steps correctly, and check for any typos in the commands. If problems persist, seek technical support.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Navigate to the Microsoft Edge Directory.
- Enter the Uninstall Command.
- Restart Your Computer.
- Verify Microsoft Edge is Uninstalled.
Conclusion
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 is a straightforward process once you know the steps. While Edge is integrated into Windows, removing it allows you to customize your browsing experience fully. Remember, technology should serve you, not the other way around. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that you can always reinstall Edge if needed. For those who love tinkering with their systems, this process is a testament to the control you can have over your operating system.
If you’re still unsure, consider the wealth of online tutorials and forums that can offer additional insights and guidance. The internet is a vast sea of knowledge, and it’s always ready to help when you need it.
So, go ahead and make the changes you desire. Your computer is your digital kingdom—make it the way you like!
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.