How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge on Windows 10
Removing Microsoft Edge from your Windows 10 computer might seem daunting, but it’s entirely doable. By following a few straightforward steps, you can successfully uninstall the browser and reclaim some system resources. Here’s how you can do it in just a few minutes.
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 10
In this section, we’ll guide you through the steps to uninstall Microsoft Edge. This guide will help you reclaim control of your browser choices on Windows 10.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an Administrator
First, you’ll need to open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Right-click on the Start menu and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)". This ensures you have the necessary permissions to proceed with the uninstallation.
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installation Folder
Next, you’ll need to navigate to the folder where Microsoft Edge is installed.
Type cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdgeApplication and press Enter. This command will take you straight to the Edge installation directory.
Step 3: Find the Exact Version Number of Edge
You need the exact version number of Microsoft Edge installed on your system.
Type dir and press Enter to display the directory contents. Look for the folder with the version number (e.g., 91.0.864.59).
Step 4: Navigate to the Installer Folder
Now, move to the installer folder within the version directory.
Type cd [version number]Installer and press Enter. Replace [version number] with the actual version number you found in the previous step.
Step 5: Execute the Uninstall Command
Finally, run the uninstall command to remove Microsoft Edge.
Type setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall and press Enter. This command forces the uninstallation of Microsoft Edge from your system.
Once these steps are complete, Microsoft Edge will be removed from your computer.
What to Expect After Uninstalling Microsoft Edge
After completing these steps, Microsoft Edge will no longer be available on your Windows 10 computer. You might need to set a new default browser if Edge was your default. Additionally, some system updates might attempt to reinstall Edge, so be prepared to repeat the process if necessary.
Tips for Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 10
- Backup Important Data: Before making any system changes, always backup your important data.
- Use Alternative Browsers: Have another browser like Chrome or Firefox installed before uninstalling Edge.
- Check for Updates: Be mindful of Windows Updates that might reinstall Edge.
- System Restore Point: Create a system restore point before uninstalling if you need to revert changes.
- Monitor System Performance: Keep an eye on your system’s performance post-uninstallation to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can always reinstall Microsoft Edge by downloading it from the official Microsoft website.
Will uninstalling Edge affect my Windows updates?
Typically, Windows updates will proceed as normal, but be aware that some updates might reinstall Edge.
Is it safe to uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Yes, it is generally safe, but ensure you have another reliable browser installed beforehand.
What if the uninstall command doesn’t work?
Double-check your steps and ensure you are running the Command Prompt as an administrator.
Can I disable Edge instead of uninstalling it?
Yes, you can disable Edge via Group Policy Editor or by renaming the Edge application folder, but uninstalling is a more permanent solution.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as an Administrator.
- Navigate to the Edge installation folder.
- Find the exact version number of Edge.
- Navigate to the Installer folder.
- Execute the uninstall command.
Conclusion
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 is relatively simple if you follow the proper steps outlined in this guide. Whether you’re looking to free up some system resources or simply prefer using a different browser, removing Edge puts you back in control of your digital environment. Remember, if Edge gets reinstalled by a system update, you can always repeat the steps to uninstall it again.
If you’re interested in more detailed guides or have any issues with this process, there are plenty of forums and help articles available that provide additional troubleshooting tips. Happy browsing with your alternative browser!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.