If you’re looking to uninstall Microsoft Edge from your Windows 10 or 11 computer, you’ve probably realized it’s not as simple as removing other programs. Microsoft Edge is a built-in browser, and Windows doesn’t allow its removal through the usual uninstaller tools. This guide walks you through the process step-by-step, so you can completely uninstall Microsoft Edge from your system.
Key Takeaways
- You cannot uninstall Microsoft Edge using standard Windows uninstaller tools (Outside of the EU).
- HiBit Uninstaller and WinAero Tweaker are essential tools for fully removing Microsoft Edge and disabling updates.
- Make sure to install an alternative browser before uninstalling Microsoft Edge.
Step-by-Step Guide to Uninstall Microsoft Edge
1. Download HiBit Uninstaller
To begin, you’ll need to download HiBit Uninstaller. This tool allows you to remove stubborn programs like Microsoft Edge that can’t be uninstalled through normal means.
- Open your preferred web browser (ironically, you can even use Edge for this).
- Visit the HiBit Uninstaller website and download the portable version. This doesn’t require installation and can be run directly after extraction.
2. Extract and Launch HiBit Uninstaller
Once the download is complete:
- Open the folder where the file was saved.
- Extract the files and launch the application.
If you encounter any Windows SmartScreen prompts, click on “More Info” and then “Run Anyway.” You may also need to accept user account control prompts by clicking “Yes.”
3. Find and Uninstall Microsoft Edge
With HiBit Uninstaller open:
- You’ll see a list of all the applications installed on your computer.
- Find Microsoft Edge on this list, right-click on it, and choose the Force Removal option.
Once you’ve selected Force Removal:
- Check both boxes to remove all related files and registry entries.
- Click Scan, then Finish.
This will remove Microsoft Edge from your desktop. However, you may still see its icon on the taskbar temporarily, which will be addressed later.
4. Remove Microsoft Edge Using Windows Store Apps Manager
Even though Edge is removed, it may still be listed as a Windows Store app. Here’s how to handle that:
- In HiBit Uninstaller, go to Tools and then select Windows Store Apps Manager.
- Find Microsoft Edge and choose Uninstall Selected.
Before proceeding, it’s recommended to create a System Restore Point. Once done, click Start to uninstall, then Scan to remove any leftover files.
5. Restart Your Computer
After completing the uninstallation steps, restart your computer. Upon reboot:
- Check the Start Menu and Search Bar for Microsoft Edge. It should no longer appear.
- If the icon is still on your taskbar, clicking on it will show an error message stating that the program cannot be found. At this point, you can safely remove it.
6. Disable Microsoft Edge Updates Using WinAero Tweaker
To prevent Edge from being automatically reinstalled via Windows Update, you’ll need to disable its updates. Here’s how:
- Download WinAero Tweaker.
- Extract the files and launch the setup.
- Opt for the portable mode during installation.
Once WinAero Tweaker is running:
- Search for Microsoft Edge in the app.
- Choose the Disable Updates option for Microsoft Edge.
The application will confirm that Edge updates have been disabled, ensuring that Edge won’t return via updates.
7. Install an Alternative Browser
Before you uninstall Microsoft Edge, it’s important to install another browser so you can continue accessing the internet. Some popular choices include:
Having an alternative browser installed will ensure that you’re not left without a means to browse the web after Edge is gone.
Conclusion
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 or 11 requires more effort than uninstalling regular programs. With tools like HiBit Uninstaller and WinAero Tweaker, you can remove the browser completely and prevent future updates from reinstalling it. Just be sure to install an alternative browser before starting this process.
FAQs
1. Can I reinstall Microsoft Edge after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can reinstall Microsoft Edge by downloading it from the Microsoft website.
2. Is it safe to uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge is safe, but be sure to install another browser first to ensure you can still access the internet.
3. Will uninstalling Edge cause issues with Windows updates?
Uninstalling Edge doesn’t typically interfere with Windows updates, but disabling Edge updates through WinAero Tweaker ensures it won’t be reinstalled automatically.
4. What’s the difference between HiBit Uninstaller’s force removal and regular uninstall?
Force removal deletes additional files and registry entries that are often left behind by a regular uninstall.
5. Do I need to disable Microsoft Edge updates after uninstalling it?
Yes, disabling updates helps prevent Microsoft Edge from being reinstalled during future Windows updates.
