How to Delete Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 Completely?
Microsoft Edge comes pre-installed with Windows 11, making it deeply integrated into the system. While it is a fast and modern browser, many users prefer alternatives and want to remove it entirely to free up space, reduce background processes, or maintain a cleaner system environment.
However, removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 requires more than a simple uninstall because it is deeply integrated into the system. By using Command Prompt with administrative privileges and executing a forced uninstall command, you can delete it completely.
In this guide, I will explain a safe and complete method to remove it!
How to Delete Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 Completely? [Step-By-Step Guide]
To delete Microsoft Edge completely from Windows 11, you need to use Command Prompt with administrator privileges, locate the Edge installation folder, and execute a forced uninstall command. Since Edge is a system app, it cannot be removed through standard settings, so advanced steps are required to uninstall it fully.
Note: Before starting, it is important to understand that removing Microsoft Edge may affect certain Windows features like widgets, system search, and web-based integrations. Therefore, ensure you have another browser installed beforehand so you do not lose internet access.
Now, let’s go to the detailed process!
Step 1: Install an Alternative Browser
Before removing Microsoft Edge, the first thing you need to do is install another browser, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. This step is crucial because once Edge is removed, you will not have a default browser to open links or download files.
Open Microsoft Edge, visit the official website of your preferred browser, and install it. After installation, set it as the default browser in Windows settings. This ensures all links open smoothly even after Edge is removed.
Step 2: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
To uninstall Microsoft Edge completely, you need administrative access. This allows you to run system-level commands that are otherwise restricted.
Click on the Start menu and type Command Prompt. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator. A confirmation prompt may appear asking for permission, so click Yes.
You will now see a command window with elevated privileges, which is required for the next steps.
Step 3: Locate the Microsoft Edge Installation Folder
Microsoft Edge is installed inside a system directory, and you need to navigate to that location manually.
Open File Explorer and go to the following path:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application
Inside this folder, you will find a version-number folder such as 123.0.XXXX.X. Open that folder, then open the Installer folder.
Now, click on the address bar, copy the full path, and keep it ready because you will use it in Command Prompt.
Step 4: Navigate to the Installer Directory Using Command Prompt
Return to the Command Prompt window you opened earlier. You now need to move into the Edge installer directory.
Type cd followed by the path you copied earlier. Press Enter to navigate into that directory.
If done correctly, the command line will now show that you are inside the Edge installer folder. This is where the uninstall tool is located.
Step 5: Run the Uninstall Command
This is the most important step, where Microsoft Edge will be removed from your system.
In Command Prompt, type the following command:
setup.exe –uninstall –system-level –verbose-logging –force-uninstall
Press Enter to execute the command.
This command forces the system to uninstall Microsoft Edge completely, bypassing the usual restrictions placed by Windows.
Wait for the process to finish. It may take a few seconds to complete.
Step 6: Restart Your Computer
After the uninstall process is complete, restart your computer. This ensures that all background processes related to Microsoft Edge are fully terminated and removed from memory.
Restarting also helps apply system changes and prevents leftover files from causing issues.
Step 7: Remove Leftover Files and Folders
Even after uninstalling Edge, some residual files may remain on your system.
Open File Explorer and check the following locations:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\
C:\Program Files\Microsoft\
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Microsoft\
If you find any Edge-related folders, delete them manually. This ensures complete removal and frees up storage space.
Be careful not to delete unrelated Microsoft folders.
Step 8: Disable Edge Reinstallation via Windows Updates
Windows updates may automatically reinstall Microsoft Edge in the future. To prevent this, you can take additional steps.
You can use Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor to block automatic reinstallation. This step is optional but recommended if you want permanent removal.
In Group Policy Editor, look for policies related to Microsoft Edge updates and disable them. This ensures the browser does not return after system updates.
Step 9: Verify That Microsoft Edge is Completely Removed
After completing all steps, verify that Edge has been removed successfully.
Try searching for Microsoft Edge in the Start menu. If it does not appear, the uninstall process was successful.
You can also check installed apps in Settings to confirm that Edge is no longer listed.
FAQs
Is it safe to uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11?
Yes, it is generally safe, but some Windows features may rely on Edge components. Always ensure you have another browser installed before removing it.
Why can’t I uninstall Microsoft Edge normally?
Microsoft Edge is a system-integrated application in Windows 11, so it does not appear in the standard uninstall list like other apps.
Will Microsoft Edge reinstall automatically?
Yes, Windows updates may reinstall it. You can prevent this by disabling Edge updates through advanced settings.
Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge later?
Yes, you can download it again from the official Microsoft website if needed.
Does removing Edge improve performance?
In some cases, removing background processes related to Edge can slightly improve system performance, especially on low-end devices.