Techinline Blog

Remote Support Software Explained

SetMe
Remote Support Software That Always Works
Techinline Blog

How to Remove Built-In Windows 11 Apps

by

Windows 11 comes with numerous preloaded applications. While some are helpful, others may feel unnecessary if you never use them. The good news: you can remove most of these default apps safely.

In this guide, you will learn how to uninstall built-in Windows 11 applications using PowerShell, Settings, and reliable third-party tools. Whether you want to free up storage space, streamline your Start menu, or “debloat” your system, these methods will help.

How to Remove Built-In Windows 11 Apps

Why Remove Built-In Windows 11 Apps?

Default apps can be handy for some, but they aren’t essential for everyone. Here’s why you might want to remove them:

  • Clear up storage space – Some pre-installed applications can occupy several hundred megabytes.
  • Improve performance – Fewer background apps mean more resources for the programs you actually use.
  • Declutter your Start menu – Easier access to the apps you rely on daily.
  • Minimize distractions – Reduce unnecessary notifications.

Can You Remove All Windows 11 Default Apps?

Not all apps can be uninstalled. Microsoft restricts removal of critical components like Microsoft Edge, Settings, and the Microsoft Store.

But the good news: most “extra” apps are safe to remove, and you can always reinstall them later if needed.

Ways to Remove Built-In Windows 11 Apps

Option 1: Use Windows PowerShell

  1. Run PowerShell as administrator.
  2. Enter a command to remove a specific app. For example:
# Remove Xbox
Get-AppxPackage *xboxapp* | Remove-AppxPackage

# Remove Cortana
Get-AppxPackage *cortana* | Remove-AppxPackage

# Remove Weather
Get-AppxPackage *bingweather* | Remove-AppxPackage

Hit Enter, and the app will be uninstalled.

Exercise caution when using PowerShell commands. Removing critical apps could affect system stability.


If you need to safely remove apps from a remote PC, tools like SetMe will make remote access seamless. SetMe provides the easiest way to connect to any Windows computer or server in just 3 steps and control the device with zero lag as if you were there.
See how it works

Option 2: Uninstall via Settings

This is the easiest way and works for many apps:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Scroll down, find the app you want to remove, and click Uninstall.

Note: Some apps won’t show an uninstall option here. For those, you’ll need PowerShell or a third-party tool.

Option 3: Use Third-Party Tools

If you’d rather avoid PowerShell, several trusted apps make this process easier:

  • O&O AppBuster – Free, user-friendly, lets you uninstall or restore apps in bulk.
  • CCleaner – Known for system cleanup, also has an uninstall feature for Windows apps.

How to Reinstall Removed Windows 11 Apps

Changed your mind? You can restore removed apps:

  • From Microsoft Store: Simply search for the app and reinstall it.
  • Using PowerShell: Run this command to restore all default apps:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers| Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

Best Practices Before You Start

  • Create a restore point: If something goes wrong, you can roll back.
  • Don’t touch system-critical apps like Microsoft Store and Settings.
    Research each app before removing it — make sure it’s not tied to features you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I uninstall Microsoft Edge in Windows 11?
No. Edge is tightly integrated into Windows 11, and Microsoft does not provide a supported way to uninstall it. Attempts with third-party tools may cause instability.

2. Will removing built-in apps break Windows Updates?
No. Windows Update focuses on the operating system itself — security patches, drivers, and performance fixes. Removing optional apps has no effect on these updates.

3. Can I reinstall apps I have removed?
Yes. You can always reinstall apps from the Microsoft Store or restore all default apps using PowerShell.

4. Is it safe to use third-party debloating tools?
Yes, but stick to reputable options. Downloading tools from unofficial sites is risky and could expose your system to malware.

5. Which apps should I never uninstall?
You should keep Microsoft Store, Settings, Edge, and any security-related utilities. Removing them could interfere with essential Windows functions.

Conclusion

Removing unused built-in apps from Windows 11 can make your PC cleaner, faster, and easier to navigate. Whether you prefer the quick Settings method, the more advanced PowerShell route, or third-party tools, you have options.

And remember: nothing is permanent. If you ever need those apps back, reinstalling them is simple.

Learn More About SetMe

Related Posts