How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge

Having to do numerous uninstallations and tweaks to systems, I found out it can be a challenge to remove Microsoft Edge from your desktop. Microsoft Edge is the default browser that comes with Windows, and although it’s considerably better than earlier versions, many people still prefer using Chrome or Firefox. Whether you want a different browser or just want to reclaim storage capacity, having the knowledge of how to uninstall Microsoft Edge can save you time and frustration. This will take you through steps, explain whether that’s possible, and provide alternative solutions if a full uninstall is not an option.

Why Uninstall Microsoft Edge?

To many users, Edge is a good enough browser, but following are some very valid reasons to uninstall it:

• Preference for Another Browser: The majority of users have become quite used to Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.
• Performance Issues: Some feel other browsers act and perform better or consume fewer resources.
• Personalization and Features: Other browsers may offer extensions or features that edge lacks.
• Privacy Concerns: Users desiring alternatives sometimes question Microsoft’s data-collection policies.

Can You Uninstall Microsoft Edge?

Before telling you about how to uninstall Microsoft Edge, the usual first order of business is to answer a typical question: Can you uninstall Microsoft Edge? The quick answer is yes, but it depends on your version of Windows and how Edge was installed.

Due to the deep integration with Windows, uninstalling it totally might make the system unstable. But, really, with the right approach, you will be able to either fully uninstall it or disable it so that it no longer interferes with your browsing preferences.

How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge on Windows

Uninstallation steps are varying depending on whether Microsoft edge was manually installed or came by default in Windows.

1. Uninstall via Apps & Features

This works in case you had manually downloaded and installed Edge as a third-party application.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. In Settings, go to Apps > Apps & Features.

3. Find Microsoft Edge in the list of applications.

4. Click on Uninstall and confirm your decision.

In case you see the uninstall option grayed out, continue with the following approach.

2. Use Command Prompt to Uninstall

For users who desire an advanced approach, the Command Prompt may be used for forced uninstallation of Microsoft Edge.

1. Open the folder in which Edge has been installed. This is by default:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application

2. Launch the Command Prompt by writing “cmd” in the navigation bar of that same window, and then pressing “Enter.”

3. Uninstall Edge with the command below:
setup.exe –uninstall –system-level –verbose-logging –force-uninstall

This approach forcibly uninstalls Edge but may result in some system warnings or prompts for missing features.

3. Disable Instead of Uninstall

For cases where it may not be possible to totally uninstall Microsoft Edge, simply disabling can help. Here’s how to disable microsoft edge:

• Change your default browser to something else, like Chrome or Firefox.
• Use a third-party application to manage or suppress the processes initiated by Edge.
• Modify Windows settings to avoid allowing auto-opening of Edge, which includes removing Edge from startup applications. Follow this guide to learn and study how to do it.

My Experience Removing Microsoft Edge

A few months ago, I helped a friend who wanted to remove Edge from their laptop; she found it intrusive and preferred Chrome. I followed the above steps first, trying the usual uninstallation through settings, and then moved on to using the Command Prompt approach when that didn’t work.

The result was total success after some patience in the procedure. The important thing was to ensure that we were on admin privileges and using the appropriate directory path. Although Edge no longer has appeared, I ensured that I set up a replacement browser and set it as default for any eventualities.

In fact, the experience taught me that the task of how to uninstall Microsoft Edge is doable provided one approaches the procedure in a well-structured manner.

Why Microsoft Edge Keeps Reinstalling

One typical frustration for users who have tried to uninstall Microsoft Edge is that the browser seems to reinstall itself after system updates. This happens because Microsoft considers Edge a core part of Windows, and updates are designed to check that all the core apps are present and functional.

These are a few tips to prevent Edge from reinstalling:

1. Disable Automatic Updates for Edge:

• Search for and open the Task Scheduler from the search bar.
• Now go to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Edge Update.
• Right-click each task that says Edge Update and disable it.

2. Rename the Edge Installation Folder:

• Open the directory of the edge installation directory. By default, it’s: C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\
• Rename the folder; for example, to “Edge_Old”. This can stop updates from reinstalling the browser.

3. Block Edge Updates Using Group Policy-Pro/Enterprise Users only:

• Open the Group Policy Editor by typing gpedit.msc into the Run dialog (Win + R).
• Go to Administrative Templates > Microsoft Edge Update > Applications.
• Disable updates for Microsoft Edge.

Taking these steps can help minimize the chances of Microsoft Edge reappearing after an uninstallation. But, really, be cautious, as updates may still force a reinstallation in the course of major Windows updates.

Alternatives to Microsoft Edge

In case you’re uninstalling Edge, you may be seeking alternatives. These are some of the most famous options:

• Google Chrome: Fast, full-featured browser with thousands of extensions accessible.
• Mozilla Firefox: Free software, privacy-focused
• Brave: Privacy-first browser that blocks trackers and ads by default
• Opera GX: For gamers, with customisation options

Before you remove it, see that you download and install your browser of choice first to avoid leaving yourself without a browser.

How to Change the Default Browser

Once you’ve uninstalled or disabled edge, you will want to change the default browser to something else:

1. On Windows, open Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
2. Scroll down to Web Browser.
3. Click on what’s now the default that opens (probably Edge) and choose your replacement browser.

This guarantees your system opens links and initiates web actions in your browser of choice.

Is Edge Really Gone?

Even with this procedure, remnants of Edge may remain on your system. Why? Because Microsoft has declared the browser a core feature of Windows. To check that it doesn’t get in the way:

• Keep your alternative browser updated regularly.
• Kill any running Edge processes via Task Manager.

For users who ask how to get rid of Microsoft Edge, these added steps will go further.

How to Reinstall Microsoft Edge if Needed

Should you uninstall Microsoft Edge just to discover that it is indeed needed, reinstalling the browser isn’t a problem. In case you would like to do so out of curiosity or compatibility reasons, here’s how you bring Microsoft Edge back to your system:

1. Download the Installer:
Launch any other browser on your device and go to the official website of Microsoft Edge to download the latest version of Edge.

2. Choose the Correct Version:
Download the proper version that works with your operating system. Edge is made for any operating system, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, etc…

3. Run Installer:
Go ahead with the installation by opening up the installation file and then just following the step by step installation wizard that will pop up; this is generally pretty fast.

4. Set Up Sync:
Launch the browser, then sign in with your Microsoft account in case you want to restore your bookmarks, settings, and passwords if you synced them with Edge before.

Now, open Edge and check that everything is working right. You could customize it again or import stuff from other browsers. Reinstalling Microsoft Edge ascertain you have a modern browser optimized for Windows systems should you find that it’s required for specific tasks or preferences.

FAQ

1. Can I uninstall Microsoft Edge on Windows 11?

Yes, but it’s more deeply integrated into Windows 11, so proceed at your own risk and only if you‘d rather disable it entirely.

2. What happens if I uninstall Microsoft Edge?

Your system will remain functional, but various features connected to Edge only-such as News and Interests-will no longer work.

3. How to permanently delete Microsoft Edge?

You will be able to use Command Prompt to force an uninstall, but total deletion might still leave some residual files.

4. Is uninstalling Microsoft Edge safe?

Yes, as long as you have another browser installed and set as default.

5. Why am I unable to uninstall Microsoft Edge via Apps & Features?

If it’s preinstalled as part of Windows then the uninstall option will likely be unavailable.

6. Can I uninstall Edge without administration rights?

No, you really need administrative rights to alter system applications like Edge.

Conclusion

Although learning how to uninstall Microsoft Edge might look daunting at first, it’s totally doable with the proper steps. Be it uninstalling it through the settings, using Command Prompt, or simply disabling it, it’s totally up to your needs. By following the steps outlined here, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a browsing experience that better suits your preferences.