If you’ve noticed a program called PC Accelerate on your Windows 11 PC, you’re not alone. Many users find it annoying, potentially unwanted, and sometimes harmful, as it can slow down your system or display misleading alerts.
This guide will show you how to safely remove PC Accelerate from Windows 11 using multiple methods, including manual removal, settings tweaks, and antivirus scans.
What Is PC Accelerate?
PC Accelerate is typically classified as Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) or adware. It often appears via:
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Free downloads bundled with other software.
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Pop-up ads prompting system scans.
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Fake “speedup” or “optimization” alerts.
It is not a core Windows program and removing it will not affect your system’s functionality.
Signs You Have PC Accelerate on Your PC
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Frequent pop-ups or fake warnings claiming your PC is slow.
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Programs opening without your permission.
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Browser redirects or unwanted toolbars.
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Difficulty uninstalling through standard methods.
Method 1: Uninstall PC Accelerate via Settings
The easiest way to remove PC Accelerate is through Windows Settings.
Steps:
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to Apps → Apps & features.
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Scroll or search for PC Accelerate.
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Click the three-dot menu → Uninstall.
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Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the removal.
Method 2: Remove PC Accelerate via Control Panel
For a more classic approach:
Steps:
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Press Win + R, type
control, and press Enter. -
Navigate to Programs → Programs and Features.
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Find PC Accelerate in the list.
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Right-click → Uninstall.
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Follow the prompts and restart your PC.
Method 3: Delete Remaining Files and Folders
After uninstalling, some leftover files may remain:
Steps:
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Press Win + R, type
%ProgramFiles%and%ProgramFiles(x86)%, and press Enter. -
Look for any folders named PC Accelerate.
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Delete them manually.
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Check AppData folders:
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Press Win + R, type
%AppData%,%LocalAppData%, and%ProgramData%. -
Delete related folders if present.
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Method 4: Remove PC Accelerate from Browser Extensions
PC Accelerate may install browser add-ons.
Steps:
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Open your browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox).
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Go to Extensions / Add-ons settings.
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Look for any suspicious extensions related to PC Accelerate.
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Remove or disable them.
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Reset browser settings if necessary.
Method 5: Scan Your PC with Antivirus or Anti-Malware Software
To ensure complete removal:
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Download trusted software like Malwarebytes, Windows Defender, or AdwCleaner.
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Perform a full system scan.
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Quarantine or delete detected threats.
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Restart your PC.
Tips to Prevent PC Accelerate in the Future
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Only download software from official sources.
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Avoid clicking pop-up ads claiming your PC is slow.
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Review installation steps for optional software.
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Keep Windows Defender or antivirus active.
Pros and Cons of Removing PC Accelerate
✅ Pros
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Eliminates annoying pop-ups.
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Protects your PC from potential malware.
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Improves system performance and security.
❌ Cons
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Manual removal may require time.
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Some files may need antivirus to detect.
Conclusion
PC Accelerate is not essential for Windows 11 and is often considered adware or PUP. Removing it improves performance, reduces security risks, and cleans up your system.
You can remove it via Settings, Control Panel, manual file deletion, and ensure your PC is safe with a trusted antivirus scan. Following these steps will fully eliminate PC Accelerate from your system.
FAQs
1. Is PC Accelerate a virus?
No, it’s usually a PUP or adware, but it can be harmful if left unchecked.
2. Can I uninstall it like normal software?
Yes, via Settings or Control Panel. Sometimes manual cleanup is needed.
3. Do I need antivirus to remove it?
It’s recommended to ensure no leftover files or malware remain.
4. Will removing PC Accelerate affect Windows 11?
No, Windows 11 will function normally without it.
5. How can I prevent similar PUPs in the future?
Download software from official sources, read installation prompts carefully, and avoid suspicious pop-ups.