How to Uninstall Programs on Windows 10

We’re living in an age where both minimalism and storage are everything. This is as true in the tech world as it is in the home décor industry.

Think about it. How many programs do you have on your PC that you never use? They will undoubtedly be taking up precious space. This is why many PC and laptop users choose to uninstall unwanted programs.

Essentially this is one of the most common tasks performed. Cleaning isn’t just reserved for spring, after all! But how do you do it?

In this How To Article we will explain how Windows 10 users can uninstall unneeded programs, without any hassle.

Windows 10, of course, still has the tried and trusted Programs and Features control panel menu that we enjoyed with Windows 7 and XP. However, it will not actually delete modern apps.

That being said, there is still a simple way to do so. We’re going to explain the process in just seven simple manual steps. Then we will share with you some Clean-Up Software to help make life a little easier. This type of software can help banish stubborn programs and the hidden files created by them.

Sometimes it’s worth spending time uninstalling unwanted programs on your Windows 10 device. Credit: Pexels/ Pixabay

But first, why should you uninstall programs on Windows 10?

As we said, if you have some unused or unwanted programs the best thing to do is uninstall them. Don’t worry, in most cases you can always reinstall them if circumstances change.

According to TechTalk, there are “various ways” in which this can help your computer or laptop. First of all, you will be getting more space available in your hard drive – which is always good news!

Uninstalling unwanted programs can also increase your computer speed as a result. This is because they will not be running in the background, so your device can get on with the tasks that matter.

It also enhances your security. Come on, we’ve all ignored updates from programs that we don’t often use. Don’t be foolish in thinking updates are only for getting new, shiny features.

Updates are important for addressing security vulnerabilities. So, if you’re not going to give time and attention to the app you really are better without it.

So, how do you uninstall programs on Windows 10?

1. First of all you need to head to your Start menu (where all exciting things begin…).
2. Once you’re there, select Settings.
3. When you’re in Settings find the System option in the menu and click.
4. Look on the left-hand side and choose Apps & Features.
5. Now on the right you will see a list of all your installed apps and programs.
6. Simply select the apps you want to get rid of…
7. You will see an Uninstall option (We really don’t need to tell you what to do here, do we?)

Yes, it really is as simple as that. It’s worth noting though, if you get to step seven you and notice the Uninstall option isn’t available that means you definitely can’t remove it. It’s likely a system app and it would really be in your best interests to leave it well alone.

Is it worth considering Clean-Up Software?

You bet it is. Using a disk cleaner should be on your to-do list every now and then. It will help create more room on your computer, deleting unnecessary data that is slowing down your system.

Doing this while uninstalling programs may be perfect timing. We’re going to list three of our favourite options, after we explain why they’re vital for a happy computer.

Aside from creating more space, like uninstalling programs, you will be more secure after having a clear out. Whether you’re selling your laptop, or you just want peace of mind, clearing your hard drive of personal details and digits is advisable.

A disk clean-up will make sure your private information no longer exists on the computer. It will also remove hidden program files.

Moreover, if you’re having issues with removing programs through Windows 10, this method could also play a part. Now, our step-by-step method is pretty fool proof, but should it fail – a disk cleaner could come in handy.

CCleaner

Often referred to as ‘the most popular freeware cleaner globally’, CCleaner has seen more than two billion downloads since its launch.

This quick and easy to use program will make your computer faster, more secure and more reliable. It does this by removing cookies, temporary files and various other unused data that clog up your operating system.

The built in Registry Cleaner fixes errors and broken settings to make your computer more stable. The simple, intuitive UI and rapid but powerful cleaning make CCleaner a favourite among novices and techies alike.

Key Features:

• Speeds up computer.
• Makes system more secure.
• Removes unused data.
• Straightforward and effective to use.
• Enjoy less crashes and system errors.
• Guides you with computer advice.

The default settings only focus on typical junk files and locations so you’re unlikely to lose important information unless you alter these. A Startup Cleaner also helps you to identify and remove unused programs running in the background when you start your computer.

CCleaner removes cached files to make your browsing experience confidential, meaning you are less likely to suffer from identity theft and/or online fraud. The military grade Drive Wiper ensures any data you want to be permanently deleted, stays deleted.

Overall, CCleaner has earned its position at the top of the freeware cleaners offering the sort of features premium programs struggle to compete with. The clean, intuitive UI makes it one of the easiest programs to use, but don’t let its size and simplicity fool you.

This is a powerful utility for improving your computers performance. Piriform’s regular update process means CCleaner is constantly improving and its popularity will continue to grow.

Click here to find out more about CCleaner

Revo Uninstaller Pro

Another great uninstallation tool is Revo Uninstaller Pro. It lists all the installed programs and components for all the users on a PC so you can have a great view of everything.

The interface of the application is clean and easy to navigate, it has a choice of views, as well as a context menu, and information on program components such as program properties, registry entries and links to manufacturer’s web sites.

Revo Uninstaller Pro has a search option that will find installed applications just by typing the first few letters of the program name. It can then scan for leftovers with advanced algorithms that are very precise, fast and effective.

Key Features:

• Forced Uninstall to remove stubborn programs.
• Junk Files Cleaner to remove unnecessary files.
• Auto-run Manager to control Windows start-up.
• Windows Tools.
• Browsers Cleaner.
• Real-Time installation monitor: for complete uninstallations.
• Multi-Level Backup System: safe uninstall of programs.
• MS Office Cleaner.

With Revo Uninstaller Pro you can also carry out quick uninstallations of more than one program at once. Users also enjoy making use of advanced scanning options, to check for any stubborn leftovers and remnants of programs.

Those who use Revo Uninstaller Pro can also manage installation logs without any difficulty. This allows them to edit, review, share and import logs. Windows Cleaner also comes with it, as well as Evidence Remover and the ability to carry out an Unrecoverable Delete operation.

The bottom line? Revo Uninstaller is a deep cleaning uninstallation tool that accomplishes a great deal more than just removing the surface debris of a program. It can delve deep into the Registry and clean out hard to reach remnants of programs. The best thing? It is easy to use and simple to navigate.

Click here to find out more about Revo Uninstaller Pro

IObit Uninstaller

Our final – but in no way least effective – solution is IObit Uninstaller. This system utility provides a rapid way to uninstall Windows apps, browser toolbars, bundleware and plug-ins.

It comes with a powerful scan function and a Force Uninstall tool, which both help to easily and completely remove stubborn apps and useless leftovers, to free up extra disk space.

With cutting edge technology and expanded database, IObit Uninstaller can help you uninstall apps completely and safely. It also comes with useful tools that can monitor malicious browser plug-ins in real time.

Key Features:

• Standard and Advanced Uninstall tools.
• Force Uninstall tool.
• Batch Uninstall function.
• Log Manager.
• Cleanup Residual.
• Startup Manager.
• Process Monitor.

IObit Uninstaller can also terminate currently running processes. Furthermore, it has been designed to locate and remove invalid shortcuts, Windows patch cache, and useless downloads from the default download folders in various web browsers and download managers.

With the advent of IObit Uninstaller version 7, the suite also pays high attention to bundleware and bundled plug-ins removal, by monitoring program installation in real time, it enables users to detect and remove installed bundleware and bundled plug-ins easily and completely.

Overall, IObit Uninstaller is a superb utility for a freeware app. It has some really good pro options wrapped in an attractive, well-structured and highly intuitive interface. Running processes takes hardly any CPU and RAM consumption and the app is relatively lightweight.

Click here to find out more about IObit Uninstaller

Final Thoughts

We hope that this explainer article has been helpful. It has provided a quick summary of two ways that you can uninstall unwanted files on Windows 10.

So, whether you prefer to do it manually or are looking for a disk cleaner to assist you, that should have you covered.

There are, of course, scores of other ways to keep your computer running well and completely tidied up. Be sure to take a look around our website to find more Best Software and News on how to do so.