Uninstalling Google Drive on Windows 11 isn’t as tricky as it might look, but a fair few blokes and sheilas miss a step or get a bit lost. Basically, you’ve got a couple of options: through the old-school Control Panel—yep, the classic way—or by just using the Settings app, which is newer and a bit more user-friendly. Either way, removing Google Drive can free up some space and help your PC run a bit smoother. Here’s the real deal, step by step.
How to Uninstall Google Drive on Windows 11
If you’re sick of Google Drive hanging around in the background or just want to tidy up some space, give these tips a burl. It’s not rocket science, but sometimes Windows can make it a tad more confusing than it should be. Expect to see the usual prompts asking if you’re sure—just click “Yes” or “Uninstall” and hope it goes smoothly the first time. Also, keep an eye out for leftover icons, because even after you’ve uninstalled, some might stubbornly stay on your desktop or taskbar.
Method 1: Using Settings
Why it helps: This way is straightforward, quick, and you don’t have to faff around with folders or commands. It’s what most folks do these days.
When to use it: If you prefer a visual interface, or if Google Drive isn’t showing up in the old Control Panel anymore.
What to expect: Google Drive will be wiped from your list of apps, and its background processes will shut down.
Steps:
- Click the Start menu or press Win + and then open Settings.
- Head over to Apps in the sidebar.
- Click on Installed apps (sometimes just “Apps & Features”).
- Scroll down or search for “Google Drive” in the list.
- Click the three dots next to Google Drive, then select Uninstall.
- Follow any prompts that pop up—Windows will ask for confirmation, and you might see a little uninstall wizard as well.
After that, Windows will do its thing. Keep in mind: if Google Drive was running, it might ask you to close it first. Make sure you’re not actively syncing files, otherwise you might run into errors or an incomplete uninstall.
Method 2: Via Control Panel (if you’re feeling a bit old-school)
Why it helps: Some leftover files or stubborn apps are best dealt with via Control Panel, especially if the app’s being a pain. Plus, if Settings isn’t showing Google Drive, this is the way to go.
When to use it: If the app isn’t listed in Settings, or if you see remnants after trying the usual uninstall.
What to expect: The app will be gone, but sometimes a few residual files or folders might hang around.
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type
appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter to open the classic programs list. - Find Google Drive in the list.
- Right-click on it and select Uninstall.
- Follow the prompts—if Windows asks to close related processes, just say yes.
Pro tip: If Google Drive’s playing hard to get or leaves behind a heap of junk, consider running a third-party cleaner like Revo Uninstaller or IObit Uninstaller. Sometimes, Windows doesn’t tidy up everything without a bit of extra help.
And don’t forget: after uninstalling, it’s a good idea to manually delete leftovers—check C:\Users\ or similar folders. Not everyone does this, but it can help clear out any cached data or configs left behind.
Tips for Uninstalling Google Drive on Windows 11
- Double-check your files: Save or back up anything important because uninstalling the app won’t delete your Google account or your files stored online.
- Kill the background process: Sometimes Google Drive keeps running in the background even after you’ve uninstalled it. Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and look for Google Drive or Drive processes. End them before uninstalling if needed.
- Remove shortcuts: Don’t forget to clear out any leftover icons from your desktop or taskbar—Windows doesn’t always tidy that up automatically.
- Clear cache: If you want to be thorough, manually delete cache files in
C:\Users\or similar folders.\AppData\Local\Google\Drive - Reboot: It’s a good idea to restart your PC after uninstalling—it helps ensure everything’s fully unloaded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will uninstalling Google Drive delete my files?
No worries, mate. Your files are stored safely in your Google account online. Uninstalling just removes the app from your machine.
Can I reinstall Google Drive later?
Too right. Just head over to Google’s official Drive download page and grab the latest installer whenever you’re ready.
Do I need to uninstall before updating?
Usually not. Most updates just overwrite what’s there, but if you’re having weird issues, a fresh uninstall followed by a reinstall can sort it out.
Will my sync settings be gone?
Yeah, unless you back up your preferences or note down your sync options, they’ll be reset when you reinstall. So, if you’re picky about which folders sync, make a note first.
What if I can’t uninstall it?
Annoying, but some apps are stubborn. Try running a third-party uninstaller like Revo Uninstaller. Or, restart in Safe Mode and give it another go—that sometimes does the trick.
Summary
- Open Settings or use appwiz.cpl to start.
- Find Google Drive in the list.
- Click Uninstall and follow the prompts.
- Remove leftover icons and cache if you’re keen.
- Reboot your PC to finish things off.
Hopefully this shies someone away from stuffed-up setups. Nothing worse than leftover apps hogging your resources. Good luck—and watch out for those stray icons!