Frustrated with Microsoft Edge taking up space or slowing down your PC? Whether you prefer Chrome, Firefox, or just want a clutter-free browser setup, knowing how to uninstall Microsoft Edge via Command Prompt (CMD) gives you full control. This method bypasses standard Settings, targeting Edge's core files directly for a complete removal. It's fast, effective, and perfect for power users on Windows 10 or 11.
β οΈ Important Warning: Microsoft Edge is a system-integrated app. Uninstalling it may affect WebView2-dependent apps or future Windows updates. Always create a system restore point first! Ready? Let's dive in. Follow these steps precisely for success.
Prerequisites Before Uninstalling Microsoft Edge via CMD
- β
Windows 10 (version 1809+) or Windows 11
- β
Administrator privileges
- β
Backup important data and create a restore point: Search "Create a restore point" in Start menu
- β
Close all Edge instances and related processes via Task Manager
Step-by-Step: How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge via Command Prompt
We'll use CMD with admin rights to run the official Edge installer in uninstall mode. This is the newest, safest method recommended by Microsoft insiders.
π Step 1: Launch Command Prompt as Administrator
- Press Win + S, type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt > Run as administrator.
- Click Yes on UAC prompt.
Step 2: Navigate to Edge's Installer Directory
In CMD, enter this command to switch to the Edge folder (it auto-detects the latest version):
cd /d "%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Microsoft\Edge\Application\*\\Installer"
Press Enter. You'll see the setup directory loaded.
Step 3: Execute the Uninstall Command
Run this powerhouse command for a full system-level removal:
setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall
Hit Enter. CMD will churn through files β expect logs and progress. It may take 2-5 minutes. No errors? Success! π
Step 4: Clean Up Residual Files and Registry
Edge leaves traces. Purge them:
- User Data:
rd /s /q "%LocalAppData%\Microsoft\Edge"
- Program Files:
rd /s /q "%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Microsoft\Edge"
- Registry (Advanced): Open regedit as admin, delete:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\EdgeUpdate
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Edge
Step 5: Verify and Restart
Run tasklist | findstr Edge in CMD β no results means it's gone! Restart PC. Edge shortcuts? Delete manually from Desktop/Start.
Common Errors & Fixes During Microsoft Edge CMD Uninstall
| Error Message |
Solution |
| "Access Denied" |
Re-run CMD as true admin. Disable antivirus temporarily. |
| "Path Not Found" |
Check Edge path: dir "%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Microsoft\Edge". Use 64-bit: %ProgramFiles%\Microsoft\Edge. |
| Reinstalls After Update |
Block via Group Policy: gpedit.msc > Computer Config > Administrative Templates > Edge Update > Disable. |
Still stuck? PowerShell alternative: Get-AppxPackage *edge* | Remove-AppxPackage (for store version only).
Why Choose CMD Over Other Methods? β
| Method |
Pros |
Cons |
Best For |
| Settings App |
Easy GUI |
Not fully removable |
Beginners |
| CMD Uninstall |
Complete, fast, no traces |
Requires admin |
Power users |
| Third-Party Tools |
Automated |
Risky malware |
Avoid |
CMD wins for precision β no leftover bloat slowing your system!
Pro Tips to Prevent Edge Reinstallation
- β Use Microsoft's Group Policy to disable updates.
- π Edit hosts file: Add
127.0.0.1 edgeupdates.microsoft.com in C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
- π Switch to Firefox or Brave for privacy-focused browsing.
FAQ: Uninstall Microsoft Edge CMD Questions Answered
- Is it safe to uninstall Microsoft Edge via CMD?
- Yes, with backups. Millions do it yearly without issues.
- Will Windows updates reinstall Edge?
- Possibly β block via policies above.
- CMD vs PowerShell for Edge removal?
- CMD is simpler for installer-based uninstall; PowerShell for app packages.
- Error "setup.exe not found"?
- Edge path varies β use
where.exe edge to locate.
Congrats! You've mastered how to uninstall Microsoft Edge via Command Prompt. Your PC feels lighter already? Share your success in comments below. Need more Windows tweaks? Stick around for guides on debloating Windows next! π