Microsoft has recently intensified its campaign to promote Edge on Windows 11 and 10, prompting many users to feel overwhelmed by persistent notifications urging them to switch from their preferred browser, Chrome. Even when users set Chrome as their default browser, Microsoft often reroutes system and app links to Edge, leading to frustration. If you're determined to remove Microsoft Edge permanently from your Windows PC, you’ve come to the right place! This guide offers a practical, step-by-step tutorial to help you with the uninstallation process, along with methods to prevent Edge from being reinstalled.
What You Will Learn
- Effective methods to uninstall Microsoft Edge from your PC.
- How to create a system restore point before making changes.
- Using Wise Uninstaller tool for a smooth uninstallation process.
- Steps to prevent Microsoft Edge from reinstalling after removal.
Effective Methods to Uninstall Microsoft Edge
Removing Microsoft Edge can be challenging due to the various protective measures Microsoft has implemented over time. However, one highly effective method is utilizing a third-party application known as Wise Uninstaller. This tool is designed specifically for thorough uninstallation processes, allowing you to remove Edge along with its associated files and registry entries. Here’s how you can accomplish this:
Preparing for the Uninstallation
Before you initiate the uninstallation process, it’s crucial to prepare your system to avoid any potential issues. Start by creating a system restore point to ensure you can revert changes if anything goes wrong. This step is particularly important for system stability and user peace of mind.
To create a system restore point, follow these steps:
- Search for "Create a restore point" in the Windows search bar.
- Select the appropriate drive (usually C:) and click on Configure.
- Ensure that system protection is enabled, then click on Create to set your restore point.
Downloading and Installing Wise Uninstaller
Next, you need to download and install Wise Uninstaller. This tool is free to use and does not include any unwanted software. To download:
- Visit the Wise Uninstaller website.
- Download the installation file and follow the prompts to install it on your PC.
Uninstalling Microsoft Edge with Wise Uninstaller
Once you have Wise Uninstaller installed, you can proceed to uninstall Edge. Open the program and look for Microsoft Edge in the list of installed applications. Select it and click on Force Uninstall. This option will initiate a scan for all related files and registry entries, ensuring a complete removal process.
Once the scan is complete, you’ll be prompted to confirm the uninstallation. Click Yes to proceed, then click Remove to start the uninstallation process. After a few moments, you should see a confirmation that Microsoft Edge has been successfully removed from your PC.
Preventing Microsoft Edge from Reinstalling
After you have uninstalled Microsoft Edge, it’s essential to take steps to prevent it from being reinstalled automatically by Windows updates. Follow these instructions to disable automatic updates for Microsoft products:
Disabling Automatic Updates for Other Microsoft Products
First, access the Windows Settings by pressing Windows + I. From there, navigate to Windows Update and then to Advanced options.
Once in the Advanced options, find the toggle for Receive updates for other Microsoft products and turn it off. This action will prevent Microsoft from downloading and reinstalling Edge during system updates.
Using the Registry Editor to Block Edge Updates
For an additional layer of protection, you can edit the Windows Registry to prevent Edge from being reinstalled. Open the registry editor by searching for "registry" in the Start menu and selecting Run as administrator.
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path:
Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft
Right-click on the Microsoft folder, select New, then Key, and name it EdgeUpdate. After creating the key, right-click on it and select New >DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name this value DoNotUpdateToEdgeWithChromium and set its value to 1.
Final Thoughts
By following these steps, you can successfully uninstall Microsoft Edge from your Windows 10 or 11 PC and prevent its reinstallation. As Microsoft continues to tighten its grip on Edge, knowing how to manage your browser preferences is essential for a seamless user experience. If you run into any issues during this process, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance or further guidance. Enjoy your browsing experience with your chosen browser!
