Are you tired of Windows 11’s bloatware, constant notifications about Microsoft Edge, and forced OneDrive integration? I’ve developed a powerful new tool called Winhance that can transform your bloated Windows 11 installation into a clean, minimal, and optimized system with just a few clicks – and keep it that way, even through Windows updates.
Key Takeaways
- Winhance removes unwanted Windows 11 apps and prevents them from reinstalling during updates
- The tool includes optimization features for privacy, gaming, power settings, and Windows services
- You can customize which apps to remove and easily reinstall them if needed through the same interface
Requirements
- Windows 11 (tested on Windows 11 24H2)
- Most things should work on Windows 10 22H2 but there are some issues
- Administrator privileges
- PowerShell 5.1 with script execution enabled
Why Use Winhance for Windows 11 Debloating?
Traditional Windows 11 debloating methods often fall short because removed apps tend to reappear after system updates. Winhance solves this problem by implementing permanent removal solutions and automatic cleanup scripts that run during system startup.
Getting Started with Winhance
You can get access to Winhance on the Official Winhance GitHub page or follow the instructions below to launch it on your computer.
Initial Setup
To use Winhance, follow these steps:
- Open PowerShell as Administrator
- Press the Windows key, type “PowerShell” or “Terminal”
- Right-click on “Windows PowerShell” or “Windows Terminal”
- Select “Run as administrator”
- If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click “Yes”
- Enable PowerShell Script Execution
- Run this command to allow script execution:
Set-ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted
- When prompted, type “Y” and press Enter
- Download and Run Winhance
- Copy this command:
irm "https://github.com/memstechtips/Winhance/raw/main/Winhance.ps1" | iex
- Right-click to paste in PowerShell (or press Ctrl + V)
- Press Enter to execute
- Complete Initial Setup
- Review and accept the disclaimer
- Note the registry backup location for future reference

Understanding the Interface
Winhance offers four main sections:
- Software and Apps
- Optimize
- Customize
- About
Removing Bloatware from Windows 11
Selecting Apps for Removal
The Software and Apps section allows you to choose which elements to remove:
- Microsoft Edge
- OneDrive
- Windows bloatware apps
- Xbox and other “useful” related applications

Note: Windows Terminal and Notepad are preserved by default, as they’re essential Windows utilities.
Managing OneDrive Removal
When removing OneDrive, you’ll have options to:
- Remove just the application
- Clean up OneDrive folders
- Prevent automatic reinstallation

Optimizing Windows 11
Security Settings
- UAC notification level adjustment (Low/Moderate/High)
- Optional Windows Security Suite management
Important: Disabling Windows Security Suite is not recommended for most users.
Performance Optimizations
- Privacy settings management
- Gaming optimizations
- Windows Update controls
- Power settings optimization
- Scheduled tasks management
- Windows services optimization

Customizing Windows 11
Visual Preferences
- Dark/Light mode toggle
- Wallpaper management
- Taskbar customization
- Start menu optimization
System Behavior
- File Explorer defaults
- Notification settings
- Sound optimizations
- Accessibility settings
- Search customization

Preventing Bloatware Reinstallation
Automatic Protection
Winhance creates startup tasks that:
- Monitor for reinstalled bloatware
- Automatically remove unwanted apps
- Maintain your preferred system configuration

Managing Exceptions
If you want to keep certain apps:
- Use Winhance’s install software section
- The tool will remove the automatic uninstallation tasks
- Your chosen apps will remain installed after updates
Conclusion
Winhance provides a powerful solution for maintaining a clean, optimized Windows 11 installation. Its ability to prevent bloatware from returning during system updates makes it stand out from other debloating tools. The user-friendly interface and comprehensive customization options ensure you can tailor Windows 11 exactly to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will Winhance Break My Windows Installation?
Winhance creates a registry backup before making any changes. You can use this backup to restore your system if needed, but this will not reinstall any apps that you have removed.
Can I Reinstall Removed Apps Later?
Yes, you can easily reinstall any removed applications using Winhance’s install software section but other native Windows apps will have to be installed via the Microsoft Store.
Does Winhance Work With Windows Updates?
Yes, Winhance maintains your debloated configuration even after Windows updates are installed.
Is It Safe to Disable Windows Security?
While possible through Winhance, disabling Windows Security is not recommended for most users as it may leave your system vulnerable.
How Can I Support the Winhance Project?
You can support Winhance by starring the project on GitHub or making a donation through PayPal. Links can be found on the Winhance GitHub page.
HI, with this command: Set-ExecutionPolicy Unrestricted … when this is unrestricted, does this mean I have a permanent security problem?
Only if you frequently download and run PowerShell scripts from the internet and they’re from untrusted sources.
The command basically tells the PC that the scripts that you decide to run does not need to be signed, although your Antivirus (or Windows Defender) will still scan scripts that you download for viruses and malware.