Is your computer crowded with unnecessary apps, hogging precious hard drive space? Does your Start menu resemble a maze of seldom-used programs? If you’re nodding, you’re not alone. Many Windows users share these frustrations.
But don’t worry; both Windows 10 and Windows 11 provide integrated solutions to remove those unwanted apps. In this brief guide, we’ll demonstrate how to utilize these techniques to uninstall the undesired software. Furthermore, we’ll discuss how third-party uninstallers can sometimes offer an additional approach to removing unwanted apps.
Methods to Uninstall Unwanted Apps on Windows
1. Uninstalling Apps via the Start Menu
For Windows 10 Users:
- Click the Start button.
- Check the app list on the left or the tiles on the right for the program you want to remove.
- Right-click the program and choose “Uninstall” from the menu to delete it.
For Windows 11 Users:
- Click the Start button.
- Click “All apps” at the upper right to see all installed programs.
- Right-click the app and select “Uninstall.”
It’s essential to note that not all programs can be removed using this method, so some apps may not have an Uninstall option available. In such cases, you can explore alternative methods for removal.
2. Uninstalling Apps via Settings
For Windows 10 Users:
- Open Settings.
- Select “Apps.”
- Choose “Apps & features.”
- Scroll and locate the unwanted app.
- Click on the app.
- Click the “Uninstall” button.
For Windows 11 Users:
- Open Settings.
- Click on “Apps.”
- Pick “Installed apps.”
- Scroll and find the unwanted app.
- Click the three-dots icon.
- Click the “Uninstall” button.
3. Uninstalling Apps via Control Panel
For those who prefer using Control Panel, this option remains accessible in both Windows 10 and Windows 11. Follow these steps:
- Click the Taskbar’s Search field.
- Search for “Control Panel” and choose it from the results.
- Select “Uninstall a program” under “Programs.”
- Find the unwanted app in the list.
- Right-click on the app and choose “Uninstall” or click the “Uninstall” button at the top of the list
It’s important to mention that this view shows only standard desktop applications and does not include Windows Universal apps.
4. Uninstalling Apps via the Program Manufacturer’s Uninstall Tool
Many third-party software packages come with a dedicated uninstallation tool, making the process straightforward. To uninstall a program, you can:
- Open the Start menu.
- Scroll through the list of programs to find the one you want to remove.
- Locate the program’s folder.
- Inside the program’s folder, find the uninstaller.
- Double-click the uninstaller to start the uninstallation process.
In some cases, you may need to navigate to the program’s location using Windows Explorer. Here, you’ll find the uninstaller represented as an .exe file. Double-click this file to initiate the uninstallation process and follow the on-screen instructions.
5. Uninstalling Apps via Third-Party Software
While the built-in uninstallation options are generally effective for Windows Universal apps, uninstalling full desktop applications can be more challenging. These built-in options often leave behind residual folders, files, and Registry entries, negatively impacting system performance.
This is where some users find third-party uninstallers useful. Some popular third-party tools include Revo Uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller, Ashampoo UnInstaller, CCleaner, and Outbyte PC Repair, which aim to thoroughly remove applications and their traces. These third-party uninstallers offer additional features such as scanning for leftover files and Registry entries to ensure a cleaner removal process.
However, it’s crucial to strike the right balance when using them, as many Windows files and Registry settings are shared by multiple programs. A dependable uninstaller should remove all remnants of the program you’re uninstalling without disrupting other software that relies on those items.
Conclusion
Effectively managing and uninstalling applications on your Windows system can significantly enhance your computer’s performance and efficiency. Windows offers its uninstallation tools, but third-party uninstallers provide a more comprehensive solution for removing unwanted apps. They help reclaim valuable disk space and streamline your system for smoother operation.
An organized and optimized computer can provide a smoother user experience. Exploring third-party uninstallers allows you to take control of your PC’s performance. For those interested in more in-depth cleaning options, third-party tools might be an avenue to explore.