Windows · Guide
How to Uninstall Programs on Windows
Short answer
Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps, find the program, click the three-dot menu, and choose Uninstall. For leftover files and registry entries, follow up with a dedicated uninstaller like Revo Uninstaller.
Requirements
- Windows 11 or Windows 10
- Administrator access on the account
- Optional: Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller for leftover cleanup
Steps
1. Open Installed apps
Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps on Windows 11, or Settings > Apps > Apps & features on Windows 10.
2. Find the program
Use the search box at the top of the list to locate the app by name.
3. Start the uninstall
Click the three-dot menu next to the app and select Uninstall, then confirm in the dialog that appears.
4. Follow the uninstaller prompts
Many programs launch their own uninstall wizard. Follow its steps and restart the PC if it asks you to.
5. Check for leftovers
Install Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller and use its scan feature to find and remove leftover folders and registry keys the built-in uninstaller missed.
6. Remove old Control Panel entries
For older desktop software, Control Panel > Programs and Features still lists some apps not shown in Settings.
Alternative methods
1. Use Revo Uninstaller's forced removal
If an app is missing from the list entirely, Revo Uninstaller's Forced Uninstall mode can remove its remaining files and registry traces manually.
2. Use PowerShell for Store apps
Run Get-AppxPackage *appname* | Remove-AppxPackage in PowerShell to remove a Microsoft Store app that will not uninstall normally.
Troubleshooting
The Uninstall option is grayed out
The app may be a required system component, or it needs to be removed by an administrator account. Sign in as an admin and try again.
Uninstall fails with an error
Try Windows's Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter, downloadable from Microsoft support, which repairs broken uninstall entries.
The app reappears after uninstalling
Check if it is set to reinstall via Microsoft Store auto-updates, or if a background service is reinstalling it. Disable related startup tasks first.
Frequently asked questions
Does uninstalling a program delete my personal files?
Usually not — it removes program files, but documents you saved elsewhere are untouched. Files saved inside the app's own folder may be deleted, though.
Is it safe to delete leftover registry keys?
Reputable uninstaller tools only remove keys they can confirm belong to the removed app. Editing the registry manually carries more risk.
Why does an app take up space after uninstalling?
Some apps leave settings, cache, or log files behind by design so a reinstall retains your preferences.