How To Uninstall Microsoft Edge Permanently from Windows 11 Using PowerShell
So, trying to get rid of Microsoft Edge on Windows 11? Yeah, it’s kind of a pain. Of course, Windows has to make it more complicated than it should be. Anyway, here’s a pretty reliable way that works in most cases: using PowerShell. It’s not perfect — sometimes you run into permissions issues or Edge stubbornly refuses to uninstall — but generally, it does the trick. Just warning, you’ll need admin rights, and on some setups, you might have to reboot a couple of times if things don’t stick right away.
Step-by-step to nuke Microsoft Edge with PowerShell
This process involves finding that sneaky Edge package in the system, then running a command to remove it. It’s kinda like deleting a stubborn app, but since Edge is deep in the system, you need to do it right.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator
Right-click the Start button, then select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin). If you get prompted by User Account Control, say yes. This step is super important because without admin rights, Windows won’t let you uninstall system apps like Edge. No way around it, unfortunately.
Step 2: Find the Edge package
Type in this command:
Get-AppxPackage *MicrosoftEdge*
and hit Enter. What you’re doing here is asking PowerShell to list all packages related to Edge. The output can be a bit overwhelming — but the key part is the PackageFullName. That’s what we need for the next step.
Step 3: Copy the PackageFullName
Scroll through the results and find the line starting with PackageFullName. It usually looks something like Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge.Stable_XX.X.XXXX.XX_neutral__XXXXXX. Copy that entire string. Because on some setups, that’s what makes the difference between success or failure.
NOTE: On certain machines, this command might not produce any output, or Edge might appear with a different ID. That’s where trial and error come in. Sometimes, you need to run it a couple of times or tweak the syntax.
Step 4: Uninstall Edge by running
Remove-AppxPackage <PackageFullName>
Replace <PackageFullName> with what you copied. For example:
Remove-AppxPackage Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge.Stable_XX.X.XXXX.XX_neutral__XXXXXX
This is pretty much the core move — executing this should delete Edge, or at least make it vanish from your apps list. Sometimes, you might need to run PowerShell again, or do a quick reboot, before it fully disappears. On some machines, it’s like hitting a wall at first, then after a reboot or two, it’s gone for good.
Step 5: Check if it worked
Just run:
Get-AppxPackage *MicrosoftEdge*
If nothing shows up, congrats — Edge’s hiding. If it’s still hanging around, try the removal command again, or reboot and check again.
And yeah, don’t be surprised if, after all that, Edge pops back after a Windows update or some system repair. It’s Windows, after all.
Some quick tips for the brave
- Backup your data: Just in case – always good to make a restore point or backup before messing with system stuff.
- Follow instructions carefully: One typo and Windows might throw a fit or you end up uninstalling the wrong thing.
- Stable internet connection: Might be needed if updates kick in or you’re downloading new browser alternatives.
- Check permissions: No admin rights? You’re dead in the water here.
- Consider creating a system restore point: Just in case something goes sideways — better safe than sorry, especially with system apps.
FAQ Time
Why would someone want to remove Edge?
Because, honestly, some prefer other browsers (like Chrome or Firefox), and Edge doesn’t always play nice with certain workflows. Plus, some folks just find it clutter or want a leaner OS without pre-installed stuff.
Can Edge come back?
Yeah, totally. If needed, just reinstall from Microsoft Store or their website. Windows doesn’t like to completely get rid of its default Chrome alternative forever.
Is it risky to uninstall Edge?
Mostly, if you have another browser installed, it shouldn’t affect much. But beware — some Windows features might redirect or break if Edge is totally gone. Still, many users have successfully removed it without issues.
Will removing Edge screw up Windows?
Probably not, but you might notice some default links or system prompts opening in your new default browser. Also, Windows updates can sometimes restore or re-add Edge, so it’s kind of a cat-and-mouse game sometimes.
Can I get Edge back after removal?
Definitely. Just download and reinstall from Microsoft if you ever change your mind.
Summary
- Open PowerShell as Admin
- Search for Edge package
- Copy the PackageFullName
- Run Remove-AppxPackage with that name
- Check if it’s gone
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone. Windows will do its best to reattach Edge, but at least you’ve got a pretty good shot at blocking it off. Just remember, messing with system apps isn’t without risk. Better to do this only if you’re comfortable with command lines and maybe creating a rollback point first. Good luck!