Removing an app from the Microsoft Store in Windows 11 should be dead easy, right? Just right-click, hit uninstall, and off you go. But sometimes it’s a bit more complicated. Some apps won’t uninstall, or the option’s greyed out, and you’re left scratching your head. Maybe you just want to tidy things up or squeeze a bit more performance out of your PC. Whatever the reason, knowing a few tricks under the hood can save you heaps of frustration. Plus, some apps leave behind residual files or dependencies, so a bit of extra cleanup might be needed to free up space or fix issues.
How to Properly Remove Apps from Windows 11
This guide will help you uninstall those pesky apps more thoroughly, whether through Settings or PowerShell, especially if they’re stubborn. The aim? Get rid of unwanted apps for good, or at least stop them cluttering your list and slowing things down.
Method 1: Use Windows Settings (the usual way)
This usually does the trick for most apps, but some built-in or system apps can be a bit tricky. It’s quick, and if it works, it’s pretty straightforward. Here’s what to do:
- Click Start, then select Settings.
- Go to Apps > Installed Apps.
- Scroll through or search for the app you want gone.
- Click on the app, then hit the Uninstall button that pops up.
- A confirmation will ask if you’re sure — just click to confirm and start the uninstall.
This method runs the standard uninstall process, which usually does the trick—but not always. Especially with some built-in or system apps, or ones with leftover bits hanging around.
Method 2: Use PowerShell for the stubborn or built-in apps
This gets a bit more technical, but it’s pretty powerful. Sometimes the app just refuses to go via normal means, or you want to tidy up remnants. PowerShell can help — just be careful, it can mess things up if you’re not careful. Always run PowerShell as an admin:
- Right-click the Start button and choose Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
- Type this to list your installed Microsoft Store apps:
Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName - Find the app’s PackageFullName in the list, then run:
Remove-AppxPackage -Package PackageFullName
Replace PackageFullName with the actual string you found. Keep in mind, removing built-in apps can sometimes cause issues with Windows — only do it if you’re comfortable with the risks. Some setups might need you to target specific package families, especially for pre-installed apps.
Fixing leftover files or dependencies
If you see residual files after uninstalling, check manually in %LocalAppData% or %ProgramFiles%. Some apps leave folders behind that you can delete to free up space. Also, look out for leftover services or scheduled tasks if the app was more integrated.
To tidy up further, tools like Winhance or third-party uninstallers can be handy, especially if you want to avoid hunting manually for leftovers. Just be careful with third-party tools — always back up first.
One odd thing — on some machines, you might need a reboot or two after uninstalling for everything to clear. The app might still show in the list initially, but that’s normal. Just restart and check again.
Tips if Things Aren’t Going Smoothly
- Double-check the app details in Settings > Apps > Installed Apps to be sure you’re removing the right one.
- If the uninstall button’s greyed out, it might be a system app or part of Windows itself. Best to leave those unless you’re ready for potential issues.
- Running PowerShell as admin is usually needed for deeper cleanup or stubborn apps.
- Sometimes a quick restart after uninstalling sorts things out and refreshes the app list.
- Don’t manually delete app data unless you’re sure — residual files might be important or cause errors if you get rid of the wrong stuff.
FAQs — Tips and Tricks for Uninstalling
Does uninstalling an app delete all its files?
Mostly, yeah. But some remnants can hide in your user folders or the registry. If you’re running low on space, a cleanup tool can help, but keep an eye out — some residual files might be important.
Can I reinstall apps after uninstalling?
Absolutely. Jump back into the Microsoft Store and download whatever you need — no dramas there.
What if the uninstall button’s missing or greyed out?
This often happens with core system apps or bloatware. In that case, PowerShell or third-party tools are the go, but do some homework first.
Do I need admin rights?
Most of the time, yeah. You’ll need admin privileges to remove apps that came with Windows or are deeply integrated.
Will removing apps help my PC run smoother?
In many cases, yes — fewer apps mean less background stuff running and less clutter, so your system might run a tad faster. But don’t expect miracles unless you’re clearing out real resource hogs.
Summary
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed Apps
- Find the app you want gone
- Click it, then hit Uninstall
- If it’s stubborn, try PowerShell
- Clean up residual files if you’re keen
Wrap-up
Uninstalling apps on Windows 11 can be a bit of a pain sometimes, especially with bloatware or built-in stuff that refuses to go easily. But with these tips, you’re better equipped to clear out what you don’t need and keep your PC running smoothly. Sometimes a restart is all it takes, and be careful when using PowerShell or fiddling with files manually. The more you get to know your system, the easier it is to keep it clean and quick.
Hopefully this saves someone a bit of hassle. Good luck, and happy cleaning!