Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 isn’t a walk in the park, but it’s doable with a little guidance. In short, you’ll need to use the Command Prompt to uninstall Edge since it’s deeply embedded in the operating system. By entering a few specific commands, you can effectively remove Edge from sight. But remember, this isn’t an official Microsoft solution, so proceed with caution.
Removing Edge from Windows 11
If you’re looking to bid farewell to Microsoft Edge on Windows 11, follow these steps to uninstall it from your system completely.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
First, you’ll need to access the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
To do this, click on the Windows Start button, type “cmd”, and select “Run as administrator” from the menu that appears. This ensures that any commands executed have the necessary permissions.
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installer Directory
Next, direct the Command Prompt to the directory where Edge is installed.
Type the following command: cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdgeApplication\Installer. Replace “ with the actual version number of Edge installed on your system. You can find this number by opening Edge and checking under Settings > About.
Step 3: Execute the Uninstall Command
Now, it’s time to uninstall Edge using a command.
Enter the command: setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall. This command tells the system to remove Edge completely, disregarding any warnings.
Step 4: Verify Edge Removal
Check to ensure that Edge has been removed from your system.
After running the uninstall command, restart your computer. Once your system reboots, attempt to open Edge. If the uninstall was successful, you should no longer find the browser on your system.
Step 5: Clean Up Remaining Files
Finally, tidy up any leftover Edge files.
Though Edge should now be removed, some files might linger. You can manually delete any remaining folders under %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdge.
After you’ve completed these steps, Microsoft Edge should be completely removed from your Windows 11 device. You may notice a cleaner system or less clutter on your device.
Tips for Removing Edge from Windows 11
- Always create a system restore point before making changes to your system.
- Double-check the commands you enter in the Command Prompt to avoid errors.
- Keep your Windows 11 updated to minimize potential issues.
- Remember that uninstalling Edge might affect some Windows features that rely on it.
- Consider altering your default browser settings after uninstalling Edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to remove Edge from Windows 11?
While it’s generally safe, be aware that some Windows features might rely on Edge. Removing it may affect those features, so proceed with caution.
Will removing Edge free up a lot of space?
Removing Edge won’t free up a significant amount of space, but it can help declutter your system if you don’t use it.
Can I reinstall Edge if needed?
Yes, you can reinstall Edge by downloading it from the official Microsoft website if you decide to use it again.
Are there any alternative ways to remove Edge?
You might come across third-party tools or scripts, but using the Command Prompt as described is the most straightforward and reliable method.
What if I encounter errors during uninstallation?
Ensure you’re using the correct version number for Edge and run the Command Prompt as an administrator. If errors persist, consider seeking further assistance from tech support forums.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Navigate to the Edge Installer Directory.
- Execute the Uninstall Command.
- Verify Edge Removal.
- Clean Up Remaining Files.
Conclusion
Removing Edge from Windows 11 can seem like a daunting task, but with this guide, you’re equipped to tackle it step-by-step. Always remember, tinkering with system software has its risks—proceed with caution and ensure you have backups or restore points handy. By following these instructions, you’ve taken control over your system’s software, choosing what best suits your needs.
If you find that you miss having Edge or want to explore its features, remember reinstalling is as easy as visiting the official Microsoft site. Should you explore other browsers, take this chance to discover a new favorite! Ultimately, your computer should feel like home; don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking.
Looking for more ways to optimize your Windows 11 experience? Dive into other settings and apps—there’s always something new to learn and tweak. Happy computing!
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.