Troubleshooting: Unable to Uninstall Microsoft Edge

Last Updated: Feb 8, 2024 by

Microsoft Edge is the default web browser for Windows 10, and while it has its fans, there are many who prefer to use other browsers. If you are one of those people and have been trying to uninstall Microsoft Edge, you may have encountered some difficulties. In this article, we will discuss why you may be unable to uninstall Microsoft Edge and provide some troubleshooting tips to help you successfully remove it from your computer.

Why Can’t I Uninstall Microsoft Edge?

There are a few reasons why you may be unable to uninstall Microsoft Edge. One of the most common reasons is that it is a built-in app in Windows 10 and cannot be uninstalled like other third-party apps. This means that even if you are able to remove it from your computer, it may reappear after a system update.

Another reason could be that Microsoft Edge is currently running in the background, preventing you from uninstalling it. You may also encounter an error message stating that the app is currently in use, even if you have closed all instances of it.

How to Uninstall Edge

If you are determined to remove Microsoft Edge from your computer, there are a few methods you can try.

Method 1: Using PowerShell

One way to uninstall Microsoft Edge is by using PowerShell, a command-line interface for Windows. Here’s how:

  1. Open PowerShell by typing “PowerShell” in the search bar and selecting “Run as administrator.”
  2. Type in the following command: Get-AppxPackage *edge* | Remove-AppxPackage
  3. Press Enter to execute the command.
  4. Once the process is complete, Microsoft Edge should be uninstalled from your computer.

Method 2: Using a Third-Party Uninstaller

There are also third-party uninstaller programs that can help you remove Microsoft Edge from your computer. These programs are designed to completely remove all traces of an app, including any leftover files and registry entries. Some popular options include Revo Uninstaller and IObit Uninstaller.

Method 3: Disabling Microsoft Edge

If you are unable to uninstall Microsoft Edge, you can also try disabling it. This will prevent it from running in the background and taking up resources on your computer. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
  2. Go to the “Processes” tab and look for “Microsoft Edge.”
  3. Right-click on it and select “End task.”
  4. Repeat this process for all instances of Microsoft Edge.
  5. Open the “Startup” tab and look for “Microsoft Edge.”
  6. Right-click on it and select “Disable.”
  7. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Conclusion

If you are unable to uninstall Microsoft Edge, don’t worry. It is a built-in app in Windows 10 and cannot be easily removed. However, you can try using PowerShell, a third-party uninstaller, or disabling the app to prevent it from running in the background. If you encounter any issues, feel free to leave a comment below and we will do our best to help you.

Gulrukh Ch

About the Author: Gulrukh Ch

Gulrukh Chaudhary, an accomplished digital marketer and technology writer with a passion for exploring the frontiers of innovation. Armed with a Master's degree in Information Technology, Gulrukh seamlessly blends her technical prowess with her creative flair, resulting in captivating insights into the world of emerging technologies. Discover more about her on her LinkedIn profile.