Uninstalling bloatware on Windows 11 can actually make your PC feel faster and give you more space — kind of weird, but it works. Bloatware’s that pre-installed junk that comes with new PCs, and it’s often more annoying than useful. To clean it out, you might think it’s just dragging and dropping in the Control Panel, but nope, there’s usually more involved if you want it truly gone.
Uninstall Bloatware on Windows 11
Getting rid of these apps is pretty straightforward once you know where to go, but I’ll warn you: some of those stubborn apps might need PowerShell to be fully zapped. Here’s the breakdown — easy enough to follow, even if you’re not a power user.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the Start menu, then hit the Settings icon (the gear). Or just hit Windows + I — faster if you’re already in a hurry. This opens the main menu for all your system tweaks.
Step 2: Select Apps
In Settings, find the Apps section. It’s right there on the sidebar, or in the main pane if you’ve got the side menu open. Click it. This is where your installed programs live.
Step 3: Go to Installed Apps
Within Apps, click Installed apps. It shows a long list of everything — some stuff you recognize, some you probably don’t. It’s a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure what’s what, so take your time scrolling through.
Pro tip: On some setups, the Installed apps list might be in a slightly different spot or take a moment to load. On Windows 11, you can also access it faster via the Start menu — just type Apps & Features and go directly there.
Step 4: Uninstall Unwanted Apps
Pick the apps you’re done with. Click the three-dot menu next to each app and choose Uninstall. It’s usually simple, but some apps, especially pre-installed bloatware, might ask for confirmation or throw an extra prompt — just go with it.
On some machines, clicking uninstall works immediately, but others might ask for admin rights or have a process that’s a bit buggy. If that happens, you’ll need the next method using PowerShell.
Step 5: Use PowerShell for Stubborn Apps
This is where you get more serious. Sometimes, apps just refuse to go away through Settings, especially the bloatware from manufacturers. For that, open PowerShell as an admin. Press Windows + X and pick Windows Terminal (Admin) or search for PowerShell in the start menu, right-click, and choose Run as administrator.
Here’s an example command to remove a built-in app:
Get-AppxPackage *YourAppName* | Remove-AppxPackageFor instance, to remove the Xbox app, you’d type:
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.XboxApp* | Remove-AppxPackageIf that didn’t help, or you’re dealing with more persistent stuff, you might try the full removal using DISM commands or third-party tools (but beware, some apps might come back after a Windows update).
Note: Be cautious with PowerShell commands because removing system apps can sometimes cause instability. Test one app first, and see if it sticks before going on a spree.
This step often takes a few tries or reboots, because Windows has to apply the changes. After finishing, check your apps list—ideally, those junk apps are gone.
Tips for Uninstalling Bloatware on Windows 11
- Always set a System Restore point before trying any major removal — because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
- Do a quick Google search on unfamiliar apps before removing — some bloatware is actually part of hardware features or drivers.
- Consider tools like CCleaner if you want to bulk clean stuff up while you’re at it.
- Keep Windows updated, so nothing breaks after uninstalling all that stuff.
- Keep an eye on newly installed apps after big updates, because some bloat might pop back in.
FAQs
What is bloatware?
A bunch of unwanted pre-installed apps that take up space and resources, often not needed. They come bundled with your device or OS vendor.
Can uninstalling bloatware improve performance?
Most of the time, yes. Fewer apps running in the background or taking up space means your PC can run smoother, especially if you get rid of resource hogs.
Is it safe to use PowerShell to remove apps?
If you’re careful, yes. Just don’t go wild deleting stuff you don’t recognize — some apps are core to Windows, and deleting them might cause issues.
How can I identify bloatware?
If it’s pre-installed, non-essential, and you didn’t install it yourself, odds are it’s bloatware. Trial versions, manufacturer apps, extra video editors, you name it.
Can I reinstall apps I accidentally uninstalled?
Absolutely. Just download from the Microsoft Store or their official site. No biggie, usually.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Select Apps
- Go to Installed Apps
- Uninstall Unwanted Apps
- Use PowerShell for the really stubborn ones
Hopefully, this shaves off a few hours for someone. The whole process isn’t flawless — some apps might refuse to die — but it’s better than leaving that clutter hanging around. Just keep in mind, doing this properly can make your machine feel a lot snappier. Fingers crossed this helps.