The Easy Way To Remove Edge

Table of Contents

Outsmarting Microsoft: How to Really Uninstall Microsoft Edge

Microsoft is determined to keep you using its Edge browser. You might see persistent warnings against installing other browsers like Chrome, and even pop-ups within Edge itself if you search for alternatives using Bing. Now, Microsoft has taken this a step further with a sneaky tactic.

Microsoft’s Clever (and Sneaky) Strategy

They’ve created a webpage specifically designed to appear high in Google search results when you search for "uninstall Microsoft Edge." However, this page doesn’t actually provide instructions on how to remove Edge. Instead, it tries to convince you to stay with Edge by highlighting its supposed advantages over other browsers. It’s a clever way to potentially deter people from uninstalling the browser – either by convincing them to stick with Edge or by making the removal process seem so difficult that users give up.

Fighting Back: A Real Guide to Removing Microsoft Edge

But we can outsmart this tactic. This guide is also optimized for the search term "uninstall Microsoft Edge," but unlike Microsoft’s page, we’ll provide you with the actual steps to remove Edge from your Windows 10 or 11 computer.

It’s important to understand that Microsoft tightly integrates Edge into Windows. They often reinstall it during system updates, making complete removal a continuous effort rather than a one-time fix. With that in mind, let’s proceed.

How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge: A Step-by-Step Guide

Completely removing Microsoft Edge requires a third-party uninstaller program. While using third-party software does involve a small risk, following these instructions carefully will ensure safe usage.

Step 1: Downloading Wise Program Uninstaller

First, download Wise Program Uninstaller. You can do this by visiting Wisecleaner’s website. Download the executable file (.exe).

Step 2: Installing Wise Program Uninstaller

Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install Wise Program Uninstaller on your computer. This is a standard installation process; just accept the defaults unless you have specific reasons to change them.

Step 3: Uninstalling Microsoft Edge

After installation, open Wise Program Uninstaller.

Step 3a: Removing Desktop Apps: Look for the "Desktop Apps" section (usually on the left-hand side of the window). Find "Microsoft Edge" in the list, and then click the "Force Uninstall" button. Confirm the uninstall by clicking "Yes." You should see a prompt asking about registry files. Click "Select All" and then "Remove" to completely delete these associated files. Finally, hit "OK".
Step 3b: Removing Browser Extensions: Go to the "Browser Extensions" section. Select any Microsoft Edge extensions listed and click the "Uninstall" button to remove them.
Step 3c: Removing Metro Apps: Now, go to the "Metro Apps" section. Locate Microsoft Edge and check the box next to it. Click the "Uninstall" button and confirm the removal.

Step 4: Restarting Your Computer

After completing all the steps above, close Wise Program Uninstaller and restart your computer. This ensures that all changes take effect.

The Ongoing Battle: Expect Edge’s Return

Keep in mind that Microsoft might reinstall Edge during future Windows updates. If this happens, you can simply repeat these steps to remove it again. It is, unfortunately, a necessary ongoing effort if you are determined to keep Edge off your system.

Concluding Thoughts

Microsoft’s attempt to subtly dissuade users from uninstalling Edge highlights their commitment to their own browser. While their webpage cleverly tries to avoid providing a solution, this guide offers a clear path to remove Edge from your Windows system. Remember that this requires a third-party uninstaller and that Microsoft may attempt to reinstall Edge with future updates. You might need to repeat this process over time.