If you want to remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11, you can do so by using the Command Prompt or changing system settings. This guide will walk you through each step, giving you the know-how to get rid of Microsoft Edge from your computer. Follow along to ensure you do it correctly and without causing issues to your system.
How to Remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11
This tutorial will show you how to uninstall Microsoft Edge from your Windows 11 computer. Removing Edge is not as simple as uninstalling other apps, but it can be done!
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges by searching for it in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting “Run as administrator”.
Running Command Prompt as an administrator gives you the necessary permissions to make changes to the system. Without these privileges, the commands needed to uninstall Edge would not work correctly.
Step 2: Navigate to the Microsoft Edge Installer Directory
Use the following command to navigate to the Edge installation directory: cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%MicrosoftEdgeApplicationxx.xx.xxx.xxInstaller.
Replace xx.xx.xxx.xx with the version number of Edge installed on your system. This command tells Command Prompt to move to the directory where Edge is installed.
Step 3: Execute the Uninstall Command
Run the uninstall command: setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall.
This command forces the uninstallation of Microsoft Edge from your system completely. It bypasses any restrictions that might prevent Edge from being removed through normal means.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
After you’ve successfully run the command, restart your computer to complete the uninstallation process.
Restarting ensures that any remaining traces of Microsoft Edge are fully removed from the system. It also helps apply any changes made during the uninstallation process.
Step 5: Verify Uninstallation
Once your computer restarts, check to make sure Microsoft Edge has been removed by searching for it in the Start menu.
If Edge does not appear in the Start menu or search results, you have successfully uninstalled it. If it still appears, you may need to repeat the previous steps or check for updates.
After you complete these steps, Microsoft Edge will be removed from your Windows 11 computer. You might need to set a new default browser if Edge was your previous default.
Tips for Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11
- Backup Your Data: Before making any changes to your system, always back up important files.
- Check Version Number: Ensure you correctly identify the version number of the Edge installation directory.
- Create a System Restore Point: Set a restore point before uninstalling Edge as a safety measure.
- Use an Alternative Browser: Have another browser installed and ready to use before uninstalling Edge.
- Regular Updates: Keep your Windows 11 system updated to avoid potential issues after removing Edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can reinstall Microsoft Edge by downloading it from the official Microsoft website.
Will removing Microsoft Edge affect my system?
No, it won’t significantly affect your system, but you’ll need another browser to access the internet.
Is it safe to use Command Prompt to uninstall Edge?
Yes, as long as you follow the steps correctly and understand what each command does, it is safe.
Can I use third-party software to remove Edge?
It’s possible, but not recommended. Using Command Prompt is more reliable and less risky.
Will uninstalling Edge free up a lot of space?
Not significantly; Edge doesn’t take up much disk space compared to other programs.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Navigate to the Microsoft Edge Installer Directory.
- Execute the Uninstall Command.
- Restart Your Computer.
- Verify Uninstallation.
Conclusion
Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 might seem like a daunting task, but by following the steps outlined above, you can easily accomplish it. Remember to back up your data and create a system restore point to avoid any potential issues. Once Edge is removed, you can rely on an alternative browser for your internet needs.
Keep in mind that staying up to date with system updates and understanding the commands you’re using is vital. If you run into any trouble, consulting Microsoft’s support or community forums can be very helpful.
By following this guide, you should have no trouble removing Microsoft Edge from your system and enjoying a clutter-free browsing experience with your preferred browser.
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.