Are you tired of Microsoft Edge popping up on your Windows 11 PC every time you try to open a browser link? Good news! You can permanently remove Microsoft Edge using PowerShell. It involves a few simple steps: opening PowerShell as an administrator, finding the Edge package, and using a specific command to uninstall it. With PowerShell, which is like a magic wand for tech-savvy users, you can easily banish Edge from your computer. Just follow the steps outlined below, and you’ll be Edge-free in no time.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Permanently Remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 Using PowerShell
We’re going to walk you through removing Microsoft Edge from your computer using PowerShell. This method is reliable and straightforward if you follow the steps closely.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator
Right-click the Start button and select “Windows Terminal (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)”.
Opening PowerShell as an administrator is crucial because it gives you the necessary permissions to uninstall system applications like Microsoft Edge. Without admin rights, you won’t be able to make these changes.
Step 2: Find the Microsoft Edge Package
In PowerShell, type Get-AppxPackage *MicrosoftEdge* and press Enter.
This command lists all the system information related to Microsoft Edge. You’ll specifically need the package name, which usually looks like “Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge.Stable.”
Step 3: Copy the PackageFullName
From the output, locate the line “PackageFullName” and copy the entire string next to it.
This step ensures that you have the exact name of the Edge package, which is critical for the uninstallation command to work.
Step 4: Uninstall Microsoft Edge
Type Remove-AppxPackage [PackageFullName]—replace [PackageFullName] with the string you copied—and press Enter.
Executing this command will start the uninstallation process for Microsoft Edge using the copied package name. This is the main step where Edge is removed from your system.
Step 5: Verify Uninstallation
Once done, type Get-AppxPackage and check to see if Microsoft Edge is still listed.
By running this command again, you can confirm that Edge has indeed been removed from your system. If it doesn’t appear in the list, you’ve successfully completed the uninstallation.
After completing these steps, Microsoft Edge will be permanently removed from your Windows 11 system. You can now choose the browser you prefer without Edge automatically opening links.
Tips for Permanently Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 Using PowerShell
- Backup your data: Before making system changes, always ensure your important data is backed up to avoid any mishaps.
- Follow instructions: Make sure to follow each step precisely, as errors can lead to partial uninstallation.
- Stable connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection in case any steps require downloading updates.
- Check permissions: Verify you have admin rights; otherwise, PowerShell commands won’t execute properly.
- System restore point: Consider creating a system restore point before proceeding, as a safety net for any unexpected issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would someone want to remove Microsoft Edge?
Some users prefer other browsers for personal or performance reasons and find Edge unnecessary.
Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge later?
Yes, you can reinstall it from the Microsoft Store or by downloading it from Microsoft’s website.
Is it safe to remove Microsoft Edge?
Yes, but ensure you have another browser installed for internet access.
Will removing Edge affect other Windows 11 features?
Generally, no. However, some system functions might redirect to other browsers.
Can this process be reversed?
While the uninstallation is permanent, you can always reinstall Edge if needed.
Summary
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
- Find the Microsoft Edge Package.
- Copy the PackageFullName.
- Uninstall Microsoft Edge.
- Verify Uninstallation.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully learned how to permanently remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 using PowerShell. This process can seem a bit daunting at first, but with a little patience and careful attention to detail, it becomes quite straightforward. Removing Edge allows you to streamline your computer’s software, especially if you prefer using browsers that better suit your needs. Plus, it’s a good reminder of the power that comes with understanding and using command-line tools like PowerShell. They’re more than just a tool for techies; they’re a gateway to customizing and controlling your Windows environment in ways you might not have thought possible.
If this is your first time using PowerShell, congratulations on taking the plunge! There’s a whole world of possibilities out there, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. Remember, the choice of browser can greatly impact your day-to-day activities online, affecting everything from speed to security. Keep exploring and learning about different tools and technologies to make your computer work best for you. And remember, if you ever want Edge back, it’s just a download away. Happy browsing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.