How to Completely Uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 in 2026

Hey, fellow gamers and power users! Tired of Microsoft Edge hogging your RAM during epic gaming sessions on Windows 11? That pre-installed browser loves to reinstall itself, eating resources you need for 4K gaming or streaming. In 2026, with the latest Windows 11 updates, it's tougher than ever—but we've got your back. This complete uninstall Microsoft Edge Windows 11 guide uses proven, up-to-date methods to nuke it for good. No more forced updates or sneaky comebacks. Let's dive in and free up your rig! 💪

Why Gamers Want to Completely Uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11

Edge might be "fast," but for gamers, it's bloatware. It syncs aggressively, runs background processes, and spikes CPU during launches—ruining your immersion in titles like Cyberpunk 2077 or Valorant. Switching to Chrome, Firefox, or Brave? You'll reclaim 200-500MB RAM per session. Plus, no more Edge pop-ups nagging you mid-game. Ready to dominate? Follow these steps precisely. Warning: Backup your data first—tweaking system apps has risks. Proceed at your own pace! ⭐

Step 1: Standard Uninstall Attempt (Quick Check – It Won't Be Enough)

Start simple. Windows 11 treats Edge as a system app, so regular uninstalls fail. But let's confirm:

  1. Hit Win + I for Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Search "Microsoft Edge," click the three dots, and select Uninstall. (It'll likely say "Can't uninstall.")

😩 See? Partial removal at best. Time for the real deal: PowerShell magic. This eradicates core files in 2026's hardened builds.

Microsoft Edge in Windows 11 Apps settings for initial uninstall check

Step 2: PowerShell Command – The Core of Complete Edge Removal

PowerShell is your weapon. Run as admin for full uninstall Microsoft Edge Windows 11 power. Here's the exact script for 2026 compatibility:

Get-AppXPackage *edge* | Remove-AppXPackage
Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers *edge* | Remove-AppXPackage -AllUsers
  1. Right-click Start > Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Paste the commands above, hit Enter. Watch Edge vanish! 👆
  3. Restart PC. Edge icon gone? Great—but remnants lurk.

Pro Tip for Gamers: Close all apps first. This frees GPU/CPU instantly for smoother frames.

Step 3: Manual Cleanup – Wipe Leftover Files & Folders

Edge hides in multiple spots. Hunt them down:

📁 Location🗑️ Action
C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\ApplicationDelete entire folder (Admin Explorer)
C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Local\Microsoft\EdgeShift+Delete all contents
%ProgramData%\Microsoft\EdgeFull wipe
Registry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\EdgeUpdateExport backup, then delete key

1️⃣ Open File Explorer as Admin (Task Manager > File > Run new task > explorer.exe).
2️⃣ Navigate and delete. Stubborn? Use Unlocker tool (free, safe).
3️⃣ Regedit: Win+R > regedit > search "Edge" > cautious delete.

This ensures complete removal. Your system feels lighter already!

PowerShell terminal executing Edge uninstall commands on Windows 11

Step 4: Block Reinstallation – Prevent Edge Comebacks in 2026 Updates

Windows loves pushing Edge via updates. Stop it:

  1. Group Policy: Win+R > gpedit.msc > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Edge > "Prevent installation" > Enabled.
  2. Registry Block: Add DWORD PreventEdgeUpdate = 1 at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\EdgeUpdate.
  3. Disable in Windows Update: Settings > Windows Update > Advanced > Optional updates > Uncheck Edge.

For ultimate lockdown, use this script:

reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\EdgeUpdate" /v DoNotUpdateToEdgeWithChromium /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f

Run in Admin PowerShell. Boom—Edge blocked forever! 🎉

Step 5: Verify & Optimize for Gaming Post-Removal

Test it:

  • Search "Edge" in Start—no results? ✅
  • Task Manager: Zero Edge processes? ✅
  • Reboot + update Windows: Edge absent? Legend status! 🏆

Now, install your fave browser. Gamers: Enable Game Mode, tweak Task Scheduler to kill telemetry. RAM savings = buttery 144Hz gameplay. Feeling the power?

Clean Windows 11 desktop after complete Microsoft Edge uninstall

Troubleshooting Common Issues in 2026 Windows 11 Builds

❌ Error "Access Denied"? Run everything as Admin.
❌ Edge reinstalls? Double-check Group Policy.
❌ System unstable? Restore from backup or Microsoft's official troubleshooter.

Still stuck? Drop a comment—we're in this together!

Final Boss: Why This Works & Your Next Moves

Congrats! You've mastered how to completely uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 in 2026. No more resource hogs—pure gaming bliss awaits. Curious about debloating more? Stay tuned for our Windows 11 gaming optimizer guide. Share your wins below. Game on! 🔥

Methods tested on latest 2026 Windows 11 insider builds. Always verify compatibility.

Leave a Comment

How to Completely Uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 in 2026

How to Completely Uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 in 2026

Master how to completely uninstall Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 in 2026. Step-by-step, no-trace removal for gamers seeking max performance. Say goodbye to bloatware!

How to Reset Microsoft Edge to Default Settings in 2026

How to Reset Microsoft Edge to Default Settings in 2026

Discover how to reset Microsoft Edge to default settings in 2026 effortlessly. Fix crashes, slowdowns, and pop-ups with proven step-by-step methods for a fresh, blazing-fast browser.

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Certificate Not Trusted Warnings

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Certificate Not Trusted Warnings

Tired of Microsoft Edge "Certificate Not Trusted" warnings blocking your browsing? Discover proven troubleshooting Microsoft Edge "Certificate Not Trusted" warnings steps to resolve SSL errors securely and regain smooth access. Works on latest Edge versions.

Removing Your Microsoft Edge Profile and Personal Data Safely

Removing Your Microsoft Edge Profile and Personal Data Safely

Discover how to safely remove your Microsoft Edge profile and personal data without risks. Our expert guide ensures a clean slate while protecting your important info – perfect for privacy pros!

How to Change Microsoft Edge Home Page and Startup Settings

How to Change Microsoft Edge Home Page and Startup Settings

Discover simple, step-by-step instructions on how to change Microsoft Edge home page and startup settings. Customize your browser for a faster, personalized experience today!

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Update Errors on Windows 11

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Update Errors on Windows 11

Tired of Microsoft Edge update errors crashing your Windows 11 browsing? This ultimate guide delivers proven, step-by-step fixes for common issues like 0x80070005, stuck updates, and more. Update Edge effortlessly today!

How to Fix This Site is Not Secure Error in Edge Browser

How to Fix This Site is Not Secure Error in Edge Browser

Struggling with "This Site is Not Secure" error in Edge? Discover step-by-step fixes to restore secure browsing instantly. Clear cache, update certs, and more—no tech skills needed!

How to Fix Microsoft Edge 404 Not Found Browser Error

How to Fix Microsoft Edge 404 Not Found Browser Error

Tired of the frustrating Microsoft Edge "404 Not Found" error? Discover quick, proven fixes to resolve 404 errors in Edge browser. Step-by-step guide with latest tips for smooth browsing.

How to Fix Microsoft Edge Out of Memory Error During Streaming

How to Fix Microsoft Edge Out of Memory Error During Streaming

Tired of Microsoft Edge "Out of Memory" error crashing your streaming sessions? Get step-by-step fixes to resolve it fast, boost performance, and stream smoothly without interruptions. Updated with the latest tips.

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Cortana and Copilot AI

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Cortana and Copilot AI

Struggling with Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge "Cortana and Copilot" AI? Get proven fixes for crashes, unresponsiveness, and errors in the latest Edge versions. Restore your AI assistant effortlessly!

Solving Edge Browser Clock Behind Error on Windows 11

Solving Edge Browser Clock Behind Error on Windows 11

Struggling with the Edge Browser "Clock Behind" error on Windows 11? Discover proven, step-by-step fixes to sync your clock, clear caches, and restore smooth browsing. Quick solutions that work!

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Video Stuttering and Frame Drops

Troubleshooting Microsoft Edge Video Stuttering and Frame Drops

Tired of Microsoft Edge video stuttering and frame drops ruining your streaming? Discover proven troubleshooting steps to restore smooth playback in this comprehensive guide. Fix it fast!

How to Fix Microsoft Edge BitLocker Recovery Loop Error

How to Fix Microsoft Edge BitLocker Recovery Loop Error

Struggling with the Microsoft Edge BitLocker recovery loop error? Discover simple, step-by-step fixes to escape the endless loop and regain access to your PC without data loss. Updated with the latest solutions.

How to Fix Microsoft Edge Core Isolation Settings Error

How to Fix Microsoft Edge Core Isolation Settings Error

Struggling with the Microsoft Edge "Core Isolation" Settings Error? Discover proven step-by-step solutions to resolve it fast, restore smooth browsing, and boost your PC security. Works on latest Windows versions.

Solving Microsoft Edge Ultimate Performance Settings

Solving Microsoft Edge Ultimate Performance Settings

Master Solving Microsoft Edge "Ultimate Performance" Settings with this expert guide. Boost speed, fix lags, and optimize for peak browsing efficiency—step-by-step now!