Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 can feel a bit like trying to pull out a system app that’s built into the OS. It’s a bit odd because Edge is pretty tightly integrated, but it’s doable if you know where to look and what commands to run. Sometimes, after a Windows update, Edge creeps back in, or certain system features rely on it without you realising. If you’re keen to ditch it and maybe free up some space or just keep things tidy, this guide might help. Just a heads up — it’s not a one-click job. You’ll need to run Command Prompt with admin rights, and there are a few careful steps involved. Once it’s gone, your Windows will feel a bit more uncluttered, and you’ll have more control over your apps.
How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11
This involves using the Command Prompt because Edge is built into Windows more deeply than most apps. Running the right commands can remove it for good — but be careful, as you’re tweaking system files, so follow each step properly. You’ll see the Edge icon disappear, and sometimes some registry entries are cleaned up afterward, making your system run a bit faster and leaner. On some setups, it works smoothly; on others, you might need a restart or a couple of goes. But overall, it’s worth a shot if Edge’s constant presence annoys you.
Find the Edge Version Number
Before you run the uninstall command, you need to know which version of Edge you’ve got, because the executable path depends on that. Head over to C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application using File Explorer. Inside, you’ll see folders named with numbers — those are your version numbers. It’s funny how many updates Microsoft sneaks in without much fanfare, so double-check those folders. If you’re running a different architecture, like ARM, the paths might be a bit different.
Fun fact — on some machines, this folder doesn’t even show up unless you’ve installed or updated Edge recently. Otherwise, it might be hidden or missing.
Run the Uninstall Command in Admin Mode
Open Windows Terminal (Admin) or run Command Prompt as administrator. To do this, right-click the start button and select “Windows Terminal (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin).” Make sure you’ve got admin privileges, or the command won’t work. Then, type in this command, replacing version_number with what you found earlier:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\version_number\Installer\setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstallThis command basically forces Edge to uninstall itself across the system. Some reckon it’s a bit of a hack, but it’s effective on certain setups. Sometimes, it won’t work if Edge was recently updated or reinstalled by Windows. In that case, a quick reboot might help, then give it another go.
What to Expect and Possible Troubles
When you press Enter, you should see some text saying the process is kicking off. If all goes well, Edge will vanish from your system. Keep in mind, on some Windows versions, Edge might try to reinstall itself with updates, so don’t be surprised if it comes back after a restart or update. Some folks keep a backup or a script ready to reinstall if needed. Also, blocking certain updates or using third-party tools like Winhance can help keep Edge at bay. Just weigh up the risks before messing with system files.
Tips for Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11
- Make sure the version number matches exactly — mismatched paths will give you grief.
- You need to run the command with admin rights; otherwise, it’ll just cough and refuse.
- If you hit errors, a quick restart often clears things up. Sometimes Windows just does its own thing.
- Back up your bookmarks, settings, or even do a system snapshot, just in case things go sideways.
- Bear in mind, some updates might reinstall or repair Edge, so check your Windows Update settings if it keeps coming back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reinstall Edge later if I change my mind?
Absolutely — just jump onto the official Microsoft site and grab the installer. Easy as.
Is it safe to uninstall Edge?
Generally, yeah — but since it’s tied into Windows, some features might rely on it. Most people report they can remove it without any dramas, especially on custom setups.
Will uninstalling Edge break other browsers like Chrome or Firefox?
Nah, removing Edge won’t mess with your other browsers. As long as you keep your favourite one installed, it’ll run just fine.
What if the command doesn’t work? Any tips?
Double-check your version number and the path — typos will mess you up. Sometimes a reboot after the first try helps, then try again. If it still doesn’t play ball, you might need to look into more advanced options or third-party tools, but exercise caution.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Find your specific Edge version number inside C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application.
- Run the uninstall command with the right version in place.
Wrap-up
This isn’t exactly a one-click fix, and it might make some folks a bit nervous messing with core system files. But if you follow the steps carefully, you can totally remove Edge, giving yourself more control over your system and freeing up some space. Just remember, Windows updates can bring it back, so you might have to do the whole shebang again down the track. That said, it’s a pretty handy trick if you want that extra bit of control — kinda satisfying, really. Hope it helps someone avoid a headache.