How to Uninstall Edge on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 can seem tricky, but it’s doable with a few simple steps. Essentially, you’ll be using a command prompt to remove it, since Edge is a built-in app. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, and before you know it, you’ll have successfully uninstalled it.

How to Uninstall Edge on Windows 11

Let’s dive into the process of removing Microsoft Edge from your Windows 11 computer. This involves using the command prompt, which might sound intimidating, but don’t worry—it’s straightforward.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

First, you’ll need to access the command prompt with administrative rights.

To do this, type “cmd” in the Windows search bar, right-click on ‘Command Prompt’, and choose ‘Run as administrator’. This ensures you have the necessary permissions to uninstall system applications.

Step 2: Find the Edge Version Number

Next, locate the version number of Microsoft Edge installed on your computer.

Open Edge, click on the three-dot menu in the upper right corner, go to ‘Settings’, and scroll down to ‘About Microsoft Edge’. Note the version number for the next step.

Step 3: Locate Microsoft Edge’s Installation Path

Now, find where Edge is installed on your system.

Navigate to the following path in File Explorer: C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplication. Inside, you’ll see folders named by the version number of Edge. Verify this matches the version number you noted earlier.

Step 4: Run Uninstall Command

With the version number and file location in hand, enter the uninstall command.

In the command prompt, type:

cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdgeApplication{Version Number}Installer

and hit enter. Then type:

setup --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall

Replace {Version Number} with the actual version number you noted.

Step 5: Confirm the Process

Finally, confirm the uninstallation process.

After entering the command, it may take a few moments to complete. If successful, Edge will be removed from your system.

After completing these steps, Microsoft Edge will no longer be installed on your Windows 11 device. This means you won’t find it in your list of apps or as a default browser option.

Tips for Uninstalling Edge on Windows 11

• Always back up your data before making significant changes to your system.
• Make sure to use the correct version number during uninstallation.
• Consider using an alternative browser before uninstalling Edge, especially if Edge was your main browser.
• Keep in mind that Windows updates might reinstall Edge.
• If any errors occur, double-check the command for typos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reinstall Edge after uninstalling it?

Yes, you can reinstall Microsoft Edge by downloading it from the official Microsoft website.

Will uninstalling Edge affect Windows 11?

Uninstalling Edge may impact some features that rely on it, like certain Windows apps.

Do I need administrative rights to uninstall Edge?

Yes, administrative rights are necessary to modify system applications like Microsoft Edge.

Is it safe to uninstall Edge?

Generally, it’s safe, but some Windows features might not function as intended without it.

Can I stop Windows from reinstalling Edge?

You can pause updates temporarily, but new updates may still reinstall Edge.

Summary

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Find the Edge version number.
3. Locate Edge’s installation path.
4. Run uninstall command.
5. Confirm the process.

Conclusion

Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 might sound like navigating a maze, but with a little guidance, it’s straightforward. Once you’ve completed all the steps, you’ll have more control over your browser choice. Remember, though, that some Windows features might rely on Edge. Don’t forget to explore other browsers if you haven’t already. And if you ever change your mind, reinstalling Edge is a breeze.

For further reading, explore ways to optimize Windows 11 for better performance or alternative browser options. This journey into uninstalling Microsoft Edge could be your gateway into discovering more about how your computer works, empowering you with the knowledge to make your tech work for you.