Microsoft Edge has been the default browser for Windows 10 and 11 since its Chromium-based relaunch in 2020. While it offers improved performance and features, some users prefer alternatives like Chrome or Firefox. Here's how to uninstall Microsoft Edge on Windows 10 and 11—legally and safely.

Why Would You Want to Uninstall Microsoft Edge?

Before diving into the steps, it's worth understanding why users might want to remove Edge:

  • Preference for another browser: Many users are accustomed to Chrome, Firefox, or Opera.
  • Performance concerns: Some report Edge consuming excessive RAM.
  • Privacy considerations: Microsoft's data collection policies may deter privacy-focused users.
  • Digital Markets Act compliance: Recent EU regulations force Microsoft to allow Edge removal.

Can You Fully Uninstall Microsoft Edge?

Microsoft Edge is deeply integrated into Windows, making complete removal tricky. However, partial uninstallation is possible:

  • Windows 10: Edge can be uninstalled but may reinstall after updates.
  • Windows 11: Recent updates (post-Digital Markets Act) allow full removal in the EU.

How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge on Windows 10

Method 1: Using Command Prompt (Temporary Removal)

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Press Win + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)."
  2. Run the uninstall command:
    cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%\Microsoft\Edge\Application\[version]\Installer setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall
    Replace [version] with the current Edge version number.

Note: This method doesn’t prevent Edge from reinstalling during updates.

Method 2: Using PowerShell (More Permanent)

  1. Open PowerShell as Admin: Search for "PowerShell" in the Start menu, right-click, and select "Run as administrator."
  2. Run the removal script:
    Get-AppxPackage -Name Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge | Remove-AppxPackage

Method 3: Using Third-Party Tools (Advanced Users)

Tools like Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller can help remove residual files after uninstalling Edge.

How to Uninstall Microsoft Edge on Windows 11

Windows 11 users in the EU can fully uninstall Edge thanks to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Here's how:

Method 1: Via Settings (EU Only)

  1. Open Settings (Win + I).
  2. Navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find Microsoft Edge, click the three-dot menu, and select Uninstall.

Method 2: Using PowerShell (Global Workaround)

  1. Run PowerShell as Admin.
  2. Enter:
    winget uninstall "Microsoft Edge"

What Happens After Uninstalling Edge?

  • Default apps reset: Windows may prompt you to choose a new default browser.
  • System stability: Some built-in features (e.g., Widgets, WebView) rely on Edge.
  • Reinstallation risk: Windows Update may reinstall Edge in future updates.

Alternative: Disable Edge Without Uninstalling

If you don’t want to remove Edge completely, consider:

  • Changing the default browser to Chrome/Firefox.
  • Disabling Edge auto-start via Task Manager.
  • Using Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) to restrict Edge.

Final Thoughts

While Microsoft Edge is tightly woven into Windows, it is possible to remove or disable it—especially in Windows 11 under the DMA. However, weigh the pros and cons before proceeding, as some system features may break.

For most users, simply setting another browser as default is the safest option.