How to Uninstall Programs on Windows 11 That Cannot Be Removed

By / September 4, 2025

Ever tried uninstalling a program on Windows 11, only to find it just won’t go away? Maybe it doesn’t appear in the usual list of apps, or perhaps you’ve uninstalled it but it keeps coming back. Annoying, right? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Some apps are stubborn, but there are ways to force them out of your system for good. In this guide, we’ll break down several proven methods to uninstall programs on Windows 11 that cannot be removed easily.

Why Some Programs Can’t Be Uninstalled Normally

Built-in System Apps

Windows 11 comes with certain pre-installed apps (like Cortana or Microsoft Edge) that are protected by the system. Microsoft doesn’t provide a straightforward option to uninstall these because they’re tied to core functionalities.

Corrupted Installations

Sometimes, a program refuses to uninstall because its installation is corrupted. Missing files or broken registry entries can interfere with the removal process.

Malware or Adware

Some unwanted programs are actually malicious software disguised as regular apps. They’re designed to resist removal.

Background Processes Running

If the app is running in the background, Windows might block you from uninstalling it.

Quick Methods to Uninstall Regular Apps

Before we dive into advanced solutions, let’s quickly cover the standard ways:

  1. Via Settings:

    • Go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps

    • Find the program

    • Click Uninstall

  2. Via Control Panel:

    • Open Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features

    • Select the program

    • Click Uninstall

If neither works, keep reading for the tougher solutions.

Methods to Uninstall Stubborn Programs in Windows 11

1. Use PowerShell Commands

PowerShell is like a magic wand for Windows. Here’s how you can use it:

  1. Press Windows + S, type PowerShell, and run as Administrator.

  2. Type the command:

    Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName

  3. Find the name of the program you want to remove.

  4. Type:

    Get-AppxPackage *programname* | Remove-AppxPackage

  5. Hit Enter and let it work its magic.

This is especially useful for built-in apps.

2. Safe Mode Uninstallation

Some programs run processes that prevent removal. Booting in Safe Mode can help:

  1. Open Settings → System → Recovery.

  2. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

  3. After restart, select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.

  4. Press 4 to enable Safe Mode.

  5. Try uninstalling the program again.

3. Use a Third-Party Uninstaller

Sometimes, Windows tools just aren’t enough. Tools like:

  • Revo Uninstaller

  • IObit Uninstaller

  • Geek Uninstaller

These remove not only the program but also leftover files and registry entries.

4. Delete Leftover Files Manually

If a program is partly removed, you may need to hunt down leftovers:

  1. Navigate to C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86).

  2. Delete the folder related to the app.

  3. Check AppData (type %appdata% in Run) for related files.

  4. Clean the registry (only if you know what you’re doing).

5. Remove Programs Using Registry Editor

Caution: Editing the registry incorrectly can harm your system.
Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall

  3. Look for the program’s entry, right-click, and delete it.

6. Disable Startup Services Before Uninstalling

Some programs start automatically and resist removal.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  2. Go to the Startup tab.

  3. Disable the app.

  4. Try uninstalling again.

7. Remove Malware-Like Programs

If the stubborn app is adware or malware:

  1. Install a trusted antivirus or anti-malware tool like Malwarebytes.

  2. Perform a full scan.

  3. Remove detected threats.

Programs You Should Avoid Uninstalling

While you may want to declutter your PC, avoid uninstalling:

  • Microsoft Store (needed for app downloads)

  • Windows Security (built-in antivirus)

  • Essential drivers or framework apps

Removing these can break Windows features.

Tips to Prevent Future Problems

  • Download apps only from trusted sources.

  • Keep Windows updated.

  • Use a third-party uninstaller for large programs.

  • Regularly clean your PC to avoid junk buildup.

Final Thoughts

Uninstalling stubborn programs on Windows 11 isn’t always straightforward, but with the right methods—PowerShell, Safe Mode, third-party tools—you can regain control over your PC. Just remember to be cautious when dealing with system apps or registry edits.

FAQs

1. Why can’t I uninstall some apps on Windows 11?
Because they’re either system-protected, corrupted, or running in the background.

2. Is it safe to use PowerShell to uninstall apps?
Yes, if you use the correct commands and only remove apps you recognize.

3. Which uninstaller is best for stubborn apps?
Revo Uninstaller and IObit Uninstaller are popular choices.

4. Can I reinstall built-in apps after removing them?
Yes, most can be reinstalled from the Microsoft Store or via PowerShell.

5. Will removing these apps speed up my PC?
In some cases, yes—especially if the app runs in the background and uses resources.

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