Uninstalling Programs on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide
Windows 10, like its predecessors, allows you to uninstall programs that you no longer need or use. This process helps free up space on your hard drive and improves your system's overall performance. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to uninstall programs on Windows 10, including both the traditional method and the newer, streamlined process using the Microsoft Store.
Uninstalling Traditional Desktop Programs
Windows 10 provides a straightforward way to uninstall traditional desktop programs. Here's how:
- Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard, then select Control Panel from the menu that appears.
- In the Control Panel window, click on Uninstall a program under the Programs category.
- You'll see a list of installed programs. Find the program you want to uninstall, then click on it once to select it.
- Click the Uninstall button at the top of the list. If the program has multiple versions or components, you might see additional options here.
- Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process. You might need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Uninstalling Programs Using the Start Menu
Windows 10 also allows you to uninstall programs directly from the Start menu. Here's how:

- Click on the Windows key to open the Start menu.
- Scroll through the apps list to find the program you want to uninstall. You can also use the search bar at the bottom of the Start menu to find it quickly.
- Right-click on the program's tile, then select Uninstall from the menu that appears.
- Confirm the uninstallation by clicking Uninstall again in the pop-up window.
Uninstalling Microsoft Store Apps
Windows 10's Microsoft Store offers a wide range of apps. Here's how to uninstall them:
- Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 10 computer.
- Click on your profile picture or initial at the top right corner of the window, then select My Library from the menu.
- You'll see a list of apps you've installed from the Microsoft Store. Find the app you want to uninstall, then click on it.
- Click the Uninstall button. If the app has multiple versions or components, you might see additional options here.
Uninstalling Programs Using PowerShell
If you're comfortable using the command line, you can also uninstall programs using PowerShell. Here's how:
- Right-click on the Windows key, then select Windows PowerShell (or Windows PowerShell (Admin) if you want to run it as an administrator).
- Type the following command, replacing
ProgramNamewith the name of the program you want to uninstall:Get-AppxPackage -Name ProgramName | Remove-AppxPackage - Press Enter to run the command. The program will be uninstalled.
Uninstalling Programs That Won't Uninstall Normally
Sometimes, you might encounter programs that won't uninstall normally. If this happens, you can try using the built-in Programs and Features tool or third-party uninstaller software.

| Tool/Software | How to Use |
|---|---|
| Programs and Features | Press the Windows key + X, then select Apps and Features. Find the problematic program, then click on it and select Uninstall. |
| Third-party uninstaller software (e.g., Revo Uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller) | Download and install the software, then use its interface to uninstall the problematic program. |
Remember, always be careful when uninstalling programs, especially those that came pre-installed with your operating system. Uninstalling the wrong program could cause system instability or other issues. If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to do some research first.
That's it! You now know how to uninstall programs on Windows 10 using several different methods. Whether you're uninstalling traditional desktop programs, Microsoft Store apps, or even problematic software, these steps should help you get the job done quickly and easily.