How Do You Delete Apps on Windows 11?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Windows OS

In today’s digital age, managing the software on your computer is essential for maintaining optimal performance and freeing up valuable storage space. Whether you’ve downloaded apps that you no longer use or want to tidy up your Windows 11 device, knowing how to delete apps efficiently can make a significant difference. Windows 11 offers a streamlined and user-friendly approach to app management, making it easier than ever to customize your system to fit your needs.

Navigating the process of removing applications on Windows 11 is straightforward, but it can vary depending on the type of app and where it was installed from. Understanding the different methods available ensures you can confidently uninstall programs without leaving behind unnecessary files or clutter. This knowledge not only helps in reclaiming disk space but also contributes to keeping your system running smoothly.

As you explore the various ways to delete apps on Windows 11, you’ll discover tips and tricks that simplify the task and enhance your overall user experience. Whether you’re a casual user or someone who regularly tweaks their setup, mastering app removal is a valuable skill that empowers you to maintain a clean and efficient PC environment.

Uninstalling Apps via Settings

To delete apps on Windows 11 using the Settings app, start by opening the Settings interface. You can do this by pressing `Win + I` on your keyboard or selecting the Settings icon from the Start menu. Once inside Settings, navigate to the “Apps” section, then click on “Installed apps” or “Apps & features,” depending on your system version.

This area displays a comprehensive list of all installed applications, including traditional desktop programs and Microsoft Store apps. The list can be sorted or filtered by name, size, or installation date, which helps when searching for specific apps.

To uninstall an app:

  • Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find the app you wish to remove.
  • Click the three-dot menu (ellipsis) next to the app name.
  • Select “Uninstall” from the dropdown menu.
  • Confirm the uninstallation prompt if it appears.

Certain built-in or system apps might not show an uninstall option due to their integral role in Windows functionality.

Removing Apps Using Control Panel

Although Windows 11 emphasizes the Settings app for managing programs, the classic Control Panel remains a viable method for uninstalling many traditional desktop applications.

To use Control Panel for uninstalling:

  • Open the Start menu and type “Control Panel,” then select it.
  • Click “Programs,” then “Programs and Features.”
  • This window lists installed desktop applications, showing details such as publisher, installation date, and size.
  • Select the program you want to uninstall.
  • Click the “Uninstall” button at the top of the list or right-click the selected program and choose “Uninstall.”
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the removal process.

Keep in mind that this method is primarily for legacy software and may not list Microsoft Store apps.

Deleting Apps via Start Menu

Windows 11 allows quick uninstallation of apps directly from the Start menu, which is convenient for apps recently installed or frequently used.

To uninstall apps through the Start menu:

  • Click the Start button or press the Windows key.
  • Locate the app in the pinned or all apps list.
  • Right-click the app icon.
  • Select “Uninstall” from the context menu.
  • Confirm the uninstallation if prompted.

This method is fastest for smaller apps but might not work for all applications, especially system-critical ones.

Using PowerShell to Remove Apps

For advanced users, PowerShell offers a powerful command-line option to uninstall apps, including system apps that the Settings or Control Panel might not remove.

To uninstall an app with PowerShell:

  • Open PowerShell as an administrator by searching “PowerShell” in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting “Run as administrator.”
  • Use the command `Get-AppxPackage` to list installed Microsoft Store apps.
  • Identify the package name of the app you want to remove.
  • Run the command `Remove-AppxPackage ` replacing `` with the actual package name.

Example command to uninstall a Microsoft Store app:

“`powershell
Get-AppxPackage *appname* | Remove-AppxPackage
“`

Be cautious when removing apps with PowerShell, as uninstalling certain system apps can affect Windows functionality.

Comparison of App Removal Methods

Below is a comparison table summarizing different methods to delete apps on Windows 11, outlining their typical use cases and limitations.

Method Best For Limitations Access Path
Settings App All installed apps, both Store and desktop Cannot uninstall some system apps Settings > Apps > Installed apps
Control Panel Traditional desktop applications Does not list Microsoft Store apps Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features
Start Menu Quick removal of frequently used apps Not all apps can be uninstalled this way Start Menu > Right-click app > Uninstall
PowerShell Advanced users removing system or Store apps Requires command-line knowledge, risk of removing essential apps PowerShell (Admin) command line

How to Delete Apps Using the Settings Menu

Windows 11 offers a straightforward method to uninstall applications through the Settings app. This approach is ideal for most users and covers traditional desktop programs as well as Microsoft Store apps.

Follow these steps to delete apps via Settings:

  • Open Settings: Click the Start button and select the Settings gear icon, or press Windows + I to launch the Settings window.
  • Navigate to Apps: In the left pane, click on Apps to access app-related settings.
  • Select Installed Apps: Click Installed apps or Apps & features to view a list of all installed applications.
  • Locate the App: Use the search bar or scroll through the list to find the application you want to remove.
  • Uninstall the App: Click the three-dot menu (ellipsis) next to the app name and select Uninstall. Confirm any prompts that appear to complete the removal.

Some apps, particularly system or pre-installed apps, may have the uninstall option disabled or grayed out. In such cases, other methods may be necessary.

Step Action Keyboard Shortcut
Open Settings Access Windows Settings Windows + I
Access Apps Click Apps in the sidebar N/A
View Installed Apps Select Installed apps or Apps & features N/A
Uninstall Click ellipsis and choose Uninstall N/A

Deleting Apps via Start Menu

The Windows 11 Start menu provides a quick way to uninstall apps, especially those installed from the Microsoft Store.

To delete apps through the Start menu, proceed as follows:

  • Open Start Menu: Click the Start button or press Windows on your keyboard.
  • Find the App: Locate the app icon either pinned to the Start menu or by searching for it.
  • Uninstall: Right-click the app icon and select Uninstall from the context menu.
  • Confirm Removal: Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.

This method is quick and convenient but may not be available for all programs, particularly traditional desktop applications that require removal through other methods.

Using Control Panel to Remove Legacy Programs

While Windows 11 primarily promotes the Settings app for app management, the traditional Control Panel remains useful for uninstalling legacy desktop programs.

To uninstall apps via Control Panel:

  • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type control and hit Enter to open the Control Panel.
  • Navigate to Programs > Programs and Features.
  • Scroll through the list to find the program you want to uninstall.
  • Select the program and click Uninstall at the top of the list.
  • Follow the uninstallation wizard to complete the process.

This method is particularly effective for older software that may not appear in the Settings app’s installed apps list.

Uninstalling Apps Using PowerShell

For advanced users or when conventional methods fail, Windows PowerShell offers a powerful alternative to remove apps, especially built-in or system apps.

Proceed with caution when using PowerShell, as removing critical system components can affect system stability.

Steps to uninstall apps via PowerShell:

  • Open PowerShell as an administrator: right-click the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or search for PowerShell, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
  • To view a list of installed apps, enter the command:
    Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName
  • Identify the app to remove and copy its PackageFullName.
  • Uninstall the app by typing:
    Remove-AppxPackage -Package PackageFullName
    Replace PackageFullName with the actual package name.

Example:

Remove-AppxPackage -


Expert Insights on How To Delete Apps On Windows 11


Dr. Emily Carter (Software Usability Specialist, TechEase Consulting). Deleting apps on Windows 11 can be accomplished efficiently through the Settings app by navigating to Apps & Features. This method ensures that users remove the application along with its associated data, maintaining system performance and freeing up storage space. It is important to follow this approach rather than simply deleting shortcuts, which does not uninstall the software.





Jason Lee (Senior Systems Administrator, NetSecure Solutions). From a system administration perspective, using the Control Panel or PowerShell commands to uninstall apps on Windows 11 offers greater control, especially for removing pre-installed or stubborn applications. PowerShell commands like 'Get-AppxPackage' combined with 'Remove-AppxPackage' allow for precise removal, which is crucial in enterprise environments to maintain system integrity.





Sophia Martinez (Cybersecurity Analyst, SafeNet Technologies). Properly deleting apps on Windows 11 is not only about freeing up space but also about security. Uninstalling unused or potentially vulnerable applications reduces the attack surface on a device. Users should ensure they remove apps completely and verify that no residual files or permissions remain that could be exploited by malicious actors.





Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


How do I uninstall apps using the Start menu in Windows 11?

Right-click the app icon in the Start menu, then select "Uninstall." Follow the prompts to complete the removal process.


Can I uninstall built-in Windows 11 apps?

Some built-in apps can be uninstalled via Settings or PowerShell, but core system apps are protected and cannot be removed without advanced methods.


What is the process to delete apps through Settings in Windows 11?

Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps, locate the app you want to remove, click the three-dot menu next to it, and select "Uninstall."


Is it possible to uninstall apps using PowerShell in Windows 11?

Yes, PowerShell allows removal of certain apps using specific commands, but it requires administrative privileges and caution to avoid system issues.


Why can't I uninstall some apps on Windows 11?

Some apps are essential system components or protected by Windows policies, preventing uninstallation to maintain system stability.


Does uninstalling an app delete all its data on Windows 11?

Uninstalling an app removes its program files, but user data or settings may remain unless manually deleted or the app provides an option to remove them.

Deleting apps on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be accomplished through several methods, including the Settings app, the Start menu, and the Control Panel. Each approach offers a user-friendly interface to help users efficiently manage and remove unwanted applications from their system. Understanding these options allows users to maintain optimal system performance and free up valuable storage space.


Utilizing the Settings app is often the most convenient method, as it provides a centralized location for managing installed apps and features. The Start menu offers a quick way to uninstall apps directly, especially for those downloaded from the Microsoft Store. For legacy or more complex applications, the Control Panel remains a reliable tool for complete removal. Being familiar with these methods ensures flexibility and control over app management on Windows 11.


In summary, mastering the process of deleting apps on Windows 11 enhances overall user experience by promoting system cleanliness and efficiency. Regularly reviewing and uninstalling unnecessary applications can contribute to better system performance and organization. By leveraging the built-in tools provided by Windows 11, users can confidently manage their software environment with ease and precision.


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Harold Trujillo

Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.



Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.