How to Uninstall Windows Bloatware and Remove Unwanted System Apps 2025

What is Windows Bloatware?

When you install Windows, it includes preloaded apps like Xbox, OneDrive, Cortana, and Microsoft News. While some users may find them useful, many apps consume storage, slow down performance, and run background processes unnecessarily.

Some apps can be uninstalled easily, but others cannot be removed through normal settings. This guide will show you step-by-step how to completely uninstall Windows bloatware using various methods.

Why Should You Remove Windows Bloatware?

Windows bloatware affects performance and usability by:

• Taking up unnecessary disk space.
• Running background processes, reducing speed.
• Sending telemetry data, impacting privacy.
• Slowing down startup times.

Removing unwanted apps frees up system resources and improves overall performance.

Methods to Uninstall Windows Bloatware

1. Remove Bloatware from Windows Settings (Basic Method)

For apps that allow removal, follow these steps:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps (Windows 11) or Apps & Features (Windows 10).
3. Scroll through the list and select the app you want to remove.
4. Click Uninstall, then confirm.

⛔ Limitations:

• Some system apps like Microsoft Edge, Xbox, and Cortana cannot be removed this way.

If this Method one didn’t Uninstall Windows Bloatware check next method !

2. Uninstall Windows Bloatware Using PowerShell (Advanced Method)

For stubborn apps, PowerShell commands can force removal.

Steps:

1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
2. Type this command to list all installed apps:powershellCopyEditGet-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName
3. Find the app’s PackageFullName and copy it.
4. Enter the following command to uninstall the app:powershellCopyEditGet-AppxPackage *AppName* | Remove-AppxPackage Example: To remove Xbox, type:powershellCopyEditGet-AppxPackage *xbox* | Remove-AppxPackage

For all users:

powershellCopyEditGet-AppxPackage -AllUsers *AppName* | Remove-AppxPackage

✔ Best For: OneDrive, Cortana, Xbox, Weather, News

If this Method one didn’t Uninstall Windows Bloatware check next method !

3. Best Third-Party Tools to Uninstall Windows Bloatware (Recommended)

For deeply embedded apps that PowerShell cannot remove, use these free tools:

1. Revo Uninstaller (Best for Deep Cleaning)

• Removes apps and leftover files that Windows uninstaller leaves behind.
• ✅ Download: Revo Uninstaller

2. O&O AppBuster (Safely Remove System Apps)

• Allows removal of hidden system apps like Microsoft Edge.
• ✅ Download: O&O AppBuster

3. Windows10Debloater (Automated Script)

• Runs an automated script to remove bloatware with one click.
• ✅ Download: Windows10Debloater

If this Method one didn’t Uninstall Windows Bloatware check next method !

4. Disable Background Apps for Better Performance

Even after uninstalling bloatware, some apps may run in the background, using system resources.

How to Disable Background Apps:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps.
3. Select an app, go to Advanced Options, and change Background App Permissions to Never.

✔ Recommended for: Skype, OneDrive, Mail, and Weather

If this Method one didn’t Uninstall Windows Bloatware check next method !

5. Prevent Windows from Reinstalling Bloatware

Even after uninstalling, Windows may reinstall some apps after an update. To prevent this:

1. Disable “Suggested Apps” in Windows Settings:
   • Go to Settings > Personalization > Start and turn off “Show suggestions occasionally”.
2. Block Automatic App Reinstallation Using Group Policy Editor:
   • Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
   • Navigate to:
     Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Cloud Content
   • Enable “Turn off Microsoft Consumer Experiences”.

This prevents bloatware apps like Candy Crush, TikTok, and News from reinstalling.

If this Method one didn’t Uninstall Windows Bloatware check next method !

6. How to Restore Removed Apps (If Needed)

If you accidentally remove an important app, reinstall all system apps with:

powershellCopyEditGet-AppxPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

⚠ Warning: This restores all default apps.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the most common Windows bloatware apps?

Some common bloatware apps include:

• Xbox Game Bar
• OneDrive
• Weather & News
• Cortana
• Microsoft Teams (preinstalled in Windows 11)

❓ Can I uninstall Microsoft Edge?

No, Microsoft Edge is deeply integrated into Windows and cannot be removed with Settings or PowerShell. However, you can disable it using O&O AppBuster.

❓ Will removing bloatware affect my system?

No, but removing system apps like Windows Defender or Microsoft Store may cause issues. Always create a restore point before making changes.

Final Thoughts: Take Back Control of Your PC!

By following this guide, you can uninstall Windows bloatware and improve your PC’s speed.

For more Windows optimization tips, check out:

• Fix a Slow Laptop Performance
• How to Fix Blue Screen After Windows Update
• Full List of Windows Tutorials

📢 Did this guide help you? Leave a comment below! 🚀