Effective Ways to Uninstall Bloatware from Windows 11
So, bloatware. It’s those pesky apps that come pre-installed on your new Windows 11 device, taking up space and slowing things down. Manufacturers often preload a bunch of software that most of us never use. Removing this clutter can help your PC run smoother and free up valuable storage. Luckily, Windows 11 offers a few simple methods to chuck out the apps you don’t need and take control of your machine.
Start with the Start Menu
First thing’s first: open up the Start menu by clicking the Windows icon on the taskbar. It’s a handy spot for all your installed apps. This makes it easier to spot those pointless manufacturer apps. If your list looks overwhelming, you can use the search bar to find things quickly. Just keep in mind, if an app looks dodgy or you don’t recognise it, it’s probably bloatware waiting to be ditched.
Identifying Unwanted Apps
Take a moment to scroll through your apps. Look for ones you never use or seem to have been added just for the sake of it. You might be surprised at how many unnecessary programs are installed on a brand-new PC. Knowing what to look for helps; those lesser-known, pre-installed apps are often the troublemakers. The sooner you get rid of them, the better.
Uninstall Apps Directly from the Menu
Most unwanted apps can be removed easily: right-click on the app icon in the Start menu and select Uninstall. You’ll usually see a confirmation pop-up to avoid accidental deletions. But watch out—some apps are more integrated into Windows and might need a bit more effort to remove. Still, this method is usually the quickest way to tidy up your system.
When Apps Won’t Budge: Using PowerShell
If you’re battling a stubborn app that won’t go away, it’s time to turn to PowerShell. Sounds fancy, but it’s straightforward. Click the Start button, type in PowerShell, then right-click and choose Run as administrator. This gives you the power to remove apps that resist normal deletion.
Running Commands to Remove Apps
This is a bit more technical. In PowerShell, run this command to remove an app: Get-AppxPackage -Name "*appname*" | Remove-AppxPackage. Swap out appname with the actual name of the app you want gone. To list all installed apps and find their names, use: Get-AppxPackage | Select Name. Just double-check your spelling so you don’t accidentally nuke something important. This approach is a handy way to clean out those persistent apps and free up space.
Extra Tips for a Smoother Experience
Before you start, it’s a good idea to write down which apps you’re planning to remove. It helps keep things organised and prevents deleting something crucial by mistake. Look up any apps you’re unsure about—some might be necessary for the system to run properly. Creating a restore point beforehand is also a smart move just in case something goes awry. You can do this via Control Panel > System > System Protection, then click Create. Remember to check for new bloatware after Windows updates, too. And if you prefer a hassle-free cleaner, tools like CCleaner can do a good part of the job for you.
Common Questions About Removing Bloatware
What exactly is bloatware?
Simply put, bloatware is the unwanted software that comes pre-loaded on your device—taking up space and gobbling resources without adding much value. It can range from tiny utilities to larger programs that you don’t need.
Will removing these apps actually speed up my PC?
Most likely, yes! Clearing out unnecessary apps frees up RAM and storage, which helps your PC run faster. The impact is especially noticeable on computers with limited resources.
Can I reinstall these apps later if I change my mind?
Absolutely! Most apps can be downloaded again from the Microsoft Store or reinstalled through Windows Settings. Some might require a quick visit to the manufacturer’s website, but it’s usually a straightforward process.
Is using PowerShell safe?
It is, provided you know what you’re doing. Be careful—entering the wrong commands can cause issues. Stick to removing apps you’re confident about, and it’s always wise to create a restore point before making any major changes.
How can I tell if an app is bloatware?
If an app has a strange name or you haven’t used it in ages, chances are it’s bloatware. A quick online search can help you understand what it does and whether you really need it.
Wrapping It Up
Cleaning out bloatware on a Windows 11 device can make your PC feel fresher and perform better. Removing all that clutter not only frees up storage but can also give your system a noticeable speed boost. Keep in mind that Windows likes to add new apps during updates, so it’s worth checking your system from time to time. Whether you’re a tech savvy user or just starting out, knowing how to manage your apps makes for a much better experience overall.
- Open the Start menu to see what’s installed.
- Make a note of apps you want to remove.
- Right-click and select Uninstall for the ones you don’t need.
- If they’re stubborn, open PowerShell:
- Search for
PowerShelland run it as an admin. - List your apps with
Get-AppxPackage | Select Name. - Remove unwanted apps with
Get-AppxPackage -Name "*appname*" | Remove-AppxPackage. - Always double-check before deleting, especially when using PowerShell.
Hopefully, this helps someone save a bit of time; getting your system leaner and cleaner is always worth a little effort.