If you’ve ever tried to remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11, you’ve probably noticed it isn’t as straightforward as uninstalling a regular app. Microsoft has deeply integrated Edge into the operating system, making it a default browser for many tasks. But if you prefer Chrome, Firefox, Brave, or any other browser, you might be wondering—can you really get rid of Edge completely?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know. From why Microsoft makes it difficult, to step-by-step methods for disabling, uninstalling, or at least hiding Edge, you’ll have all the tools to reclaim control over your PC.

Table of Contents

Why Do People Want to Remove Microsoft Edge?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.”

1. Performance Concerns

Some users feel that having multiple browsers installed slows down their system. Edge, running in the background, may consume memory even if you don’t actively use it.

2. Privacy Preferences

Microsoft Edge collects data to sync across devices. For privacy-conscious users, this level of integration feels invasive.

3. Personal Choice

Let’s be honest—some people just prefer Chrome, Firefox, or another browser. Being forced to use Edge when opening certain links feels restrictive.

4. Avoiding Default App Confusion

Windows 11 sometimes tries to reopen links in Edge, even after you’ve set a different default browser. Removing or disabling Edge helps prevent this annoyance.

Can You Completely Remove Microsoft Edge?

Here’s the tricky part: Microsoft doesn’t want you to uninstall Edge. It’s baked into Windows 11 as the default web-viewing component. Some Windows features rely on it.

But there’s good news:

While you can’t fully erase it without breaking core Windows functions,
You can uninstall updates, disable it, or hide it, so it doesn’t get in your way.

Think of it like locking an annoying roommate in their room—you might not be able to kick them out, but you don’t have to see them every day.

Methods to Remove or Disable Microsoft Edge

Let’s go step by step through the most effective methods.

Method 1: Uninstall Edge via Settings (Limited)

Steps to Try

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Apps > Installed Apps.
Search for Microsoft Edge.
If the Uninstall option is available, click it.

The Catch

In most Windows 11 versions, this won’t work. You’ll see the uninstall button grayed out. That’s when you need stronger methods.

Method 2: Uninstall Edge via Command Prompt

Why Use Command Prompt?

This method works better because you’re directly telling Windows to remove the browser instead of using the restricted Settings menu.

Steps to Remove Microsoft Edge with Command Prompt

Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run as administrator.
Navigate to the Edge installation folder by typing:

cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%\Microsoft\Edge\Application\xx.x.xxxx.x\Installer
(Replace xx.x.xxxx.x with the version number of Edge. You can check this by opening Edge and going to Settings > About Microsoft Edge.)
Type the uninstall command:

setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall
Hit Enter and wait for the process to finish.

What Happens Next?

This should remove the current version of Edge. But beware—Windows Updates may reinstall it later.

Method 3: Disable Edge Using Group Policy (Pro/Enterprise Users)

If you’re using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can use the Group Policy Editor to disable Edge.

Steps to Disable Edge with Group Policy

Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
Navigate to:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Edge
Look for policies like:
- “Allow Microsoft Edge to pre-launch at Windows startup”
- “Allow Microsoft Edge to start and load the Start and New Tab page”
Set these to Disabled.

Why This Works

It doesn’t uninstall Edge, but it stops it from running automatically.

Method 4: Rename Edge Executable File

This is a clever workaround to “disable” Edge without technically uninstalling it.

How to Do It

Go to C:\Windows\SystemApps.
Look for the folder:

Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe
Rename it to something like:

Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe_old
Restart your PC.

Downsides

Windows Updates may restore the file. Also, some system functions might not work correctly.

Method 5: Use Third-Party Tools

There are third-party utilities that make this process easier. For example:

Edge Remover Tools (community-made apps)
Uninstallers like Revo Uninstaller

⚠️ Be cautious, though. Using unofficial tools can sometimes cause instability. Always back up your system first.

Setting a Different Default Browser

Removing Edge is one thing. But if your goal is simply to stop Windows from forcing it on you, setting a default browser is often enough.

Steps to Change Default Browser in Windows 11

Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
Select your preferred browser (e.g., Chrome or Firefox).
Change file types like .htm, .html, http, and https to open with your browser.

A Helpful Trick

In newer updates, Windows 11 has simplified this process, so you can set a default browser in one click. If you don’t see that option, make sure your system is updated.

Risks of Removing Microsoft Edge

Before you go nuclear on Edge, keep these risks in mind:

System Instability: Some Windows features rely on Edge’s rendering engine.
Windows Updates: Even if you uninstall Edge, future updates may reinstall it.
Limited Support: If something breaks, Microsoft won’t help if they know you uninstalled Edge.

Think of it as pulling out a thread in a sweater—sometimes it’s fine, but sometimes the whole thing unravels.

Alternatives to Uninstalling Edge

Maybe you don’t need to fully remove it. Here are alternatives:

1. Just Hide It

Unpin Edge from the Start Menu and Taskbar so it’s out of sight.

2. Use Third-Party Apps

Programs like “EdgeDeflector” redirect links meant for Edge to your chosen browser.

3. Disable Background Activity

Stop Edge from running in the background to save resources.

Should You Remove Microsoft Edge?

At the end of the day, it’s your PC. If you’re confident and don’t mind tinkering with system files, removing Edge is possible. But for most users, simply disabling or hiding it is enough to avoid daily frustration.

Conclusion

Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows 11 isn’t as simple as clicking “uninstall.” Microsoft designed it to be a permanent part of the system, but with the right tools and tricks, you can either disable it or remove it temporarily.

If you’re not comfortable diving into command prompts or system folders, consider less drastic solutions like setting a new default browser or hiding Edge altogether. The goal is to make your computer work for you—not the other way around.

FAQs

1. Is it safe to remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11?
Yes, but with caution. Some Windows features rely on it, so disabling might be safer than full removal.

2. Will Windows Update reinstall Edge after I remove it?
Most likely, yes. Microsoft tends to push Edge updates with Windows patches.

3. Can I use Group Policy Editor on Windows 11 Home?
No, it’s only available on Pro and Enterprise editions unless you manually enable it.

4. What’s the easiest way to stop Edge from opening automatically?
Disable its background processes through Group Policy or rename its system folder.

5. Do I need Microsoft Edge to use Windows 11?
Not really. You can use other browsers for daily tasks. But some system functions may call Edge in the background.

How to Remove Microsoft Edge from Windows 11: A Simple Guide