I’m trying to clean up my computer and free some space by uninstalling apps I no longer use on my Windows 11 device. However, I’m not sure of the best way to do this or where to find the uninstallation options. Some apps seem stubborn and won’t go away easily. Could someone guide me on the proper steps or tools to use?
Oh, uninstalling apps? It’s easier than remembering your passwords. Just hit Settings (you can search for it in the Start menu), then head to Apps, and click on Apps & features. You’ll see this glorious list of everything cluttering up your PC. Find the app you’re done with, click those three dots (more options), and then hit Uninstall. BAM – space saved.
A little heads-up: some apps are like your clingy ex and don’t want to leave. Those might be system apps or pre-installed junk (looking at you, Candy Crush). For those, you might need third-party uninstallers or some deeper Windows wizardry, but tread carefully so you don’t accidentally mess with something important.
Oh, and pro-tip? Double-check that you’re not uninstalling something useful. You might not know what half those programs do, but trust me, you don’t want to break stuff accidentally.
Honestly, I don’t know why Microsoft doesn’t make this whole process insanely simple, but here we are. While @hoshikuzu’s method works, the real headache is when apps stubbornly refuse to uninstall, or they disappear into some dark corner of your system, living rent-free forever. If you want to hunt those down, try this:
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Control Panel: Yeah, the ancient Control Panel still exists. Search it in the Start menu, then head to Programs > Programs and Features. Click the app you hate and hit Uninstall. It might feel retro, but for some apps, this works better than the Settings method.
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Third-party uninstaller tools: When Windows plays hard-to-get, apps like Revo Uninstaller or IObit Uninstaller can nuke stubborn programs, including leftovers they hide in the registry or system files. Just don’t click every checkbox blindly like a maniac—you don’t wanna “accidentally” break your system files.
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PowerShell: Feeling brave? Open PowerShell (as admin) and use commands to show/remove apps. Quick example:
Get-AppxPackage *appname* | Remove-AppxPackage
But seriously, don’t just nuke everything—including system files—because you “think” you don’t need it.
Also, here’s something sketchy: some pre-installed apps can’t even be uninstalled without voiding your soul (Hello, Edge). You might think, “Maybe I’ll just delete the program folder!” Nope, please don’t. If you delete those in the wrong way, you’re just asking Windows to throw a tantrum.
I slightly disagree with @hoshikuzu saying uninstalling apps is easier than remembering passwords. Have they tried removing bloatware like OneDrive? That thing clings to your PC like a bad relationship. I say manage your expectations—it’s never as quick as you’d like it to be.