How to Uninstall Programs in Windows 11
Uninstalling programs in Windows 11 removes unwanted software and frees up disk space on your PC to help your computer run faster. You can use either the modern Settings app or the classic Control Panel to clear out old apps you no longer need.
Removing extra software stops hidden background programs from slowing down your system. Standard apps clean up easily through Settings, while stubborn programs often require the older Control Panel .
You can uninstall programs in Windows 11 through Settings Apps Installed apps, or by searching for Control Panel and selecting Uninstall a program. Find the app in the respective list, click the three dots or the Uninstall button, and follow the prompts to remove it.
Standard Methods to Remove Apps
Most users should use the built-in Windows tools first. These are safe and easy to use.
Using the Settings App
- Open the Start menu and click Settings.
- Go to Apps and then Installed apps.
- Find the app you want to remove.
- Click the three dots and select Uninstall.
Using the Control Panel
- Search for Control Panel in the Start menu .
- Click Uninstall a program under the Programs header.
- Select the app from the list and click Uninstall at the top.
Advanced: Uninstall Programs in 🪟 Windows 11 via Command Prompt
Command Prompt lets you uninstall programs in Windows 11 when standard removal methods fail or apps refuse to close. This built-in command-line tool gives you direct access to your system software list so you can force stubborn apps to remove themselves using quick text commands instead of the graphical settings menu.
- Click the Start button and search for Command Prompt.
- Right-click the app and choose Run as administrator.
windows 11 command prompt administrator - Type
wmicand press Enter. - Type
product get nameto see your list of apps.
windows uninstall program command prompt - Type
product where name="Your App Name" call uninstalland press Enter. - Type Y to confirm.
windows 11 uninstall program command prompt
Troubleshooting Stubborn Apps
If an app is broken, try to Repair it first in the Settings menu instead of uninstalling. If it still won’t go away, you may need to use a third-party uninstaller tool to clean up leftover files in C:\Program Files or registry keys in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE.
Summary
Use the standard methods for daily tasks and the Command Prompt for stubborn software. Always back up your important files before making deep changes to your system.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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