So, you want to remove Microsoft Edge from your Windows 11 machine? While it’s a built-in browser, it is possible to uninstall it. We’ll guide you step-by-step through the process, ensuring that you can bid farewell to Edge without any headaches. Ready? Let’s dive in!
How to Remove Edge from Windows 11
Following these steps will help you remove Microsoft Edge from your Windows 11 computer. We’ll be using Command Prompt to execute the removal, so get ready for a bit of command-line action!
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an Administrator
First things first, you need to access Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
To do this, type “cmd” in the search bar, right-click on “Command Prompt,” and select “Run as administrator.” This ensures you have the necessary permissions to proceed.
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installation Directory
Next, you’ll need to locate where Edge is installed on your system.
Type or paste the following command into the Command Prompt and press Enter:cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdgeApplication\Installer
Replace “ with the current version of Edge installed on your machine, which you can find by navigating to the Edge settings.
Step 3: Initiate the Uninstall Command
Now, you’re all set to remove Edge from your system.
Type or paste the following command and press Enter:setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall
This command will begin the uninstallation process. You’ll see some action in the Command Prompt as Edge is being removed.
Step 4: Verify the Uninstallation
Lastly, make sure Edge has been successfully uninstalled.
After the process completes, check your list of installed programs or try to open Edge. It should no longer be available on your system.
Once complete, you’ll notice Edge is no longer an option on your computer. This frees up some space and removes an application you might not need.
Tips for Removing Edge from Windows 11
- Double-check the Edge version number before executing the command to ensure accuracy.
- Make sure to run Command Prompt as an administrator to avoid permission issues.
- You might want to set a different browser as your default before uninstalling Edge.
- Keep your system backed up in case something goes wrong during the process.
- If you face any issues, restarting your computer might help resolve them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge after removing it?
Yes, you can reinstall Edge by downloading it from the Microsoft website if you change your mind later.
Will removing Edge affect Windows 11 functionality?
No, removing Edge won’t affect the overall functionality of Windows 11. However, some system features that rely on Edge might not work as expected.
Can I use other browsers on Windows 11?
Absolutely! Windows 11 allows you to install and use any browser you prefer, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Opera.
Is it safe to remove Edge from Windows 11?
Yes, it is generally safe to remove Edge, but ensure you follow the steps accurately and back up important data just in case.
What if I encounter errors during uninstallation?
If you encounter errors, double-check the commands and ensure you have administrative privileges. Restarting your computer can also help.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as an Administrator.
- Navigate to the Edge installation directory.
- Initiate the uninstall command.
- Verify the uninstallation.
Conclusion
Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 is a straightforward process if you follow the steps correctly. By using the Command Prompt, you can quickly and efficiently remove the browser from your system. While Edge is a robust browser, you might prefer using an alternative that better suits your needs.
Before you go ahead, make sure to set another browser as your default and back up any important data. Uninstalling Edge won’t cripple your operating system, but it’s always good to be prepared.
Remember, if you change your mind, reinstalling Edge is just a download away. But for now, enjoy the extra space and a streamlined browsing experience with your preferred browser. If you’re looking for more tips on customizing your Windows 11 experience, stay tuned for our upcoming articles!
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.