7 Ways to Uninstall Programs on Windows
Uninstalling programs on Windows can free up disk space, improve system performance, and declutter your computer. Whether you are using Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11, different methods can be used to remove unwanted software. Here are seven effective ways to uninstall programs on a Windows operating system:
1.Use the Control Panel
– Navigate to the Control Panel.
– Select “Programs” and then click on “Programs and Features.”
– Find the program you want to uninstall, click on it, and then select “Uninstall.”
2.Settings App
– Open the Settings app by pressing Win+I.
– Go to “Apps” and then “Apps & features.”
– Choose the program to uninstall and click “Uninstall.”
3.Start Menu
– Click on the Start Menu.
– Find the program you wish to remove, right-click on it.
– Select “Uninstall” from the context menu.
4.Windows Search
– Use the search bar next to the Start Menu.
– Type the name of the program.
– Right-click on the program and choose “Uninstall.”
5.Third-Party Software
– Install a reliable third-party uninstaller application.
– Run the application, select the program(s) to remove.
– Follow the third-party software instructions to uninstall.
6.Command Prompt
– Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
– Use the `wmic` command: type `wmic` and press Enter; then type `product get name` to list installed programs.
– To uninstall a program, type `product where name=”program name” call uninstall` and press Enter.
7.Registry (Advanced Users Only)
– Open Registry Editor by typing `regedit` in Windows Search.
– Navigate cautiously to `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall`.
– Locate subkeys representing programs and delete those relevant to programs you wish to uninstall (care is necessary as making incorrect changes can harm your system).
It’s important for users attempting methods 6 and 7 to have technical understanding or consult professional support due to their complexity and potential risks. Each of these methods serves a particular need based on user comfort level and specific scenarios where traditional methods may not succeed in removing stubborn programs.