Removing Unwanted Apps in Windows 11
If your storage is running low or your PC’s starting to feel sluggish, one quick fix is to uninstall programs you no longer need. It’s pretty straightforward — just a matter of navigating through Windows 11’s settings a bit. Done right, it might even give your system a fresh breath of life. Here’s a quick look at how to do it.
Open Up Settings
Start by clicking the Start button, then select the gear icon for ‘Settings’. If that’s too many clicks, just press Windows key + I on your keyboard. It opens the Settings menu where you can manage your system. This is where the magic begins.
Find the Apps Section
Once the Settings window opens, look for the Apps section. Think of it as your digital closet — all your installed programmes are under there. Navigate to: Settings > Apps > Installed apps. It might be a bit tucked away, but it’s worth the hunt.
Check Out What’s Installed
Click on Installed apps, and you’ll see a list of everything on your PC. You can sort this list by name or size — handy if you’re trying to find the biggest space hog. There’s also a search bar if you’re looking for something specific.
Select What to Uninstall
Scroll through the list and find the app you want gone. Click the three dots next to its name — these are the ‘More options’. It’s like opening a secret menu where you can choose to remove the app. Kind of like sorting through your wardrobe and deciding what to toss out.
Confirm the Uninstall
Click Uninstall when prompted, and a confirmation window will appear. This is your safety net to avoid accidentally removing something important. Follow the prompts, and before long, the programme will be gone as if it was never there.
Feeling a bit more tech-savvy? You can also uninstall apps using PowerShell. Right-click the Start button, select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin), and run:
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product | Select-Object -Property NameThis will list all installed programs. To remove a specific program, run:
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product -Filter "Name='Your Program Name'" | Invoke-WmiMethod -Name UninstallJust swap 'Your Program Name' for the actual app name. Head’s up though — using Win32_Product might slow things down and could cause some apps to reconfigure themselves. Use with care.
Once that’s done, you’ll have freed up some space, and honestly, your PC could run more smoothly, especially if that app was a resource drain.
Quick Tips for Uninstalling in Windows 11
- Think it over: Is the programme really needed? Sometimes that photo editor you rarely used can go without a fuss.
- Back up important files: If there are any crucial documents associated with the app, save them elsewhere before removing the program.
- Use built-in uninstallers: Many programs have their own uninstall tools. You can find these in Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Worth a quick look.
- Keep your system tidy: Make a habit of reviewing your apps regularly. It helps keep your PC running smoothly and frees up space.
- Avoid removing core Windows apps: Be careful with Windows system components — deleting the wrong thing could cause problems.
Common Questions About Uninstalling Apps in Windows 11
What if a program doesn’t show up in the list?
Sometimes, it’s a system app or hidden. Try searching for it via the Start Menu. If that doesn’t work, head to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features to uninstall it the traditional way.
Can I reinstall a program after deleting it?
Absolutely. As long as you still have the original installer or a download link, reinstalling is a matter of a few clicks. You won’t lose anything — just a bit of time, and it’s as good as new.
What if I accidentally delete something important?
No worries — just grab the installer from where you originally got it or visit the software’s website. Reinstalling is usually straightforward, but you might need to reconfigure some settings.
Will uninstalling leave leftovers behind?
Often, bits and pieces can remain. To tidy up, use tools like Disk Cleanup or CCleaner. Windows also has Storage Sense, found under Settings > System > Storage, which can help clear out leftover junk.
Can I automate the process?
Windows doesn’t offer built-in automation for uninstalling programs, but third-party options like IObit Uninstaller can do the job for you. They’ll also scan for leftover files, which is a bonus.
Final Thoughts
No need to overthink — removing programs in Windows 11 is easy enough. Head to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, or if you prefer the old-school way, Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Regularly clearing out unused apps keeps your PC running better and makes daily use more pleasant. Just exercise a bit of caution around system-critical apps. Every little tidy-up helps in the long run.
And don’t forget the tools Windows already offers, like Disk Cleanup and routine security scans. Keeping your system neat isn’t just about space — it’s about safety and efficiency, too. Here’s to a cleaner, quicker machine!