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How to Uninstall IE11 From Windows 10?

by Katty Rose
alt_text: Windows 10 screen with Programs & Features, highlighting IE11 for uninstallation, in a clean design.
How to Uninstall IE11 From Windows 10?

Many Windows 10 users consider removing Internet Explorer 11 (IE11) from their system. While IE11 was once the go-to browser, it has become outdated and less secure over time. Modern web browsers like Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox offer better speed, security, and compatibility with current websites.

One main reason to uninstall IE11 is security. As Microsoft phases out support for IE11, it becomes more vulnerable to threats and malware. Keeping outdated software can put your personal data and device at risk. Removing IE11 helps reduce potential security gaps, especially if you primarily browse with a more modern browser.

Another reason is compatibility. Many websites and applications still depend on Internet Explorer technology. However, newer standards are supported by modern browsers, making IE11 unnecessary for most users. Additionally, Microsoft recommends switching to Edge, which includes an “Internet Explorer mode” if some legacy sites require it.

Removing IE11 also helps declutter your system. Since Windows 10 includes IE11 as a built-in feature, some users prefer a cleaner, more streamlined setup. Disabling or uninstalling IE11 can free up minor storage and reduce background processes, which may improve overall performance.

If you no longer need IE11, uninstalling it is a smart move to keep your system secure and lean. Just remember, some older corporate applications might still rely on it. In those cases, consider disabling IE11 instead of removing it entirely.

Step-by-Step Guide to Disable IE11

If you want to disable Internet Explorer 11 (IE11) on Windows 10, this guide will walk you through the easy steps. Disabling IE11 can help you switch to other browsers or troubleshoot issues. Keep in mind that this process temporarily disables the browser before you decide to uninstall it completely if needed.

  1. Open the Windows Settings: Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings. Alternatively, press Windows + I on your keyboard.
  2. Access Apps & Features: In the Settings window, click on Apps. Then, select Apps & Features from the left sidebar.
  3. Open Optional Features: Scroll down and click on Optional Features. This section contains Windows features you can enable or disable.
  4. Find Internet Explorer 11: In the list of optional features, look for Internet Explorer 11. If you don’t see it immediately, use the search box at the top.
  5. Disable IE11: Click on Internet Explorer 11, then select Uninstall. Confirm the action if prompted.
  6. Restart Your Computer: After the uninstallation completes, restart your PC. This ensures the changes take effect and IE11 is fully disabled.

Once your computer restarts, IE11 will be disabled. You won’t see it in the Start menu or as an option to open. If you want to re-enable IE11 later, just follow the same steps and select Install instead of Uninstall.

Important tips: Disabling IE11 can help improve security if you primarily use other browsers. However, some Windows features depend on IE11, so disabling it may affect certain tasks. If you encounter issues, consider re-enabling IE11 or uninstalling via Control Panel for a complete removal.

Uninstalling IE11 via Windows Features

If you want to remove Internet Explorer 11 from your Windows computer, using the Windows Features dialog is a simple and effective way. This built-in method lets you disable or uninstall IE11 without needing additional software. Keep in mind, some Windows functions may rely on IE11, so consider that before removing it.

  1. Click on the Start menu or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
  2. Type Windows Features into the search box. You should see an option called Turn Windows features on or off. Click on it to open the dialog.
  3. In the Windows Features window, scroll through the list until you find Internet Explorer 11.
  4. Uncheck the box next to Internet Explorer 11. You might see a message warning about dependencies or that IE11 is part of Windows.
  5. Click OK. Windows will process your request, which may take a few moments.
  6. Once the process is complete, you will be prompted to restart your computer. Save any work and click Restart now.

After your PC restarts, Internet Explorer 11 will be uninstalled from your system. If you decide later to restore IE11, simply repeat these steps and check the box next to Internet Explorer 11 again.

Note that removing IE11 might affect some Windows features or applications that still rely on it. For example, older web-based tools or enterprise applications may need IE. If you face issues after uninstalling, you can always re-enable it through the same process.

Manual Removal Methods for IE11

Removing Internet Explorer 11 (IE11) manually can be useful for advanced users who want more control over the process. This method involves making changes through the Windows Registry or using command-line tools. These techniques should be done carefully, as incorrect edits can cause system issues.

Before starting, it is highly recommended to back up your registry and create a restore point. This helps restore your system if something goes wrong. Follow each step carefully and double-check your inputs.

  1. Disabling IE11 via Registry Editor

    • Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
    • Type regedit and press Enter. This opens the Registry Editor.
    • Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer.
    • Right-click on the Internet Explorer folder, then select Permissions.
    • Change permissions to restrict access or set the Enabled value to 0 if available.
    • Next, go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\Internet Explorer for 64-bit systems.
    • Note: Modifying registry keys can disable IE11 but may also affect other system features. Proceed with caution.

  2. Using Command Prompt to Remove IE11

    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator: right-click the Start button, select Command Prompt (Admin).
    • Type the following command to uninstall IE11: 
      DISM /Online /Remove-Capability /CapabilityName:Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64~~10.0.19041.0
    • Press Enter. Wait for the process to complete.
    • Restart your computer to apply changes.

  3. Removing IE11 via PowerShell

    • Open PowerShell as Administrator: right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
    • Run this command: 
      Disable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName "Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64" -Online
    • Press Enter and wait for the process to finish.
    • Reboot your device to complete removal.

These manual methods give you more control over removing IE11. Remember, editing the registry and using command-line tools involve risks, so follow instructions precisely. If unsure, seek help or consider using automated uninstallers. Always back up important data before making system changes.

Troubleshooting Uninstall Issues

If you are having trouble uninstalling Internet Explorer 11 (IE11), you’re not alone. Sometimes, uninstalling or removing IE11 can result in errors or incomplete removal. This guide will help you troubleshoot common issues and ensure IE11 is completely uninstalled from your Windows computer.

  1. Check for Windows Updates: Before attempting to uninstall IE11, ensure your Windows system is fully up to date. Sometimes, updates fix bugs related to uninstallation. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for updates.
  2. Use the Optional Features Settings: IE11 is an optional feature in Windows. To remove it:
    • Go to Settings > Apps > Optional Features.
    • Scroll to find Internet Explorer.
    • Select it and click Uninstall.

    If IE11 does not appear, it might be a system component that needs other methods to remove.

  3. Disable IE11 via Group Policy or Registry: On some systems, IE11 is integrated and cannot be removed through usual options. In these cases:
    • Open Local Group Policy Editor by typing gpedit.msc in the search bar.
    • Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Internet Explorer.
    • Enable the policy Turn off Internet Explorer boundaries and features.
    • Reboot your computer and check if IE11 is disabled or removed.

    Alternatively, editing the registry can help but proceed with caution and back up your registry first.

  4. Use the Command Prompt: If GUI methods fail, try uninstalling via Command Prompt:
    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
    • Type the command: DISM /Online /Disable-Feature /FeatureName:”Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64″ /NoRestart.
    • Press Enter and wait for the process to complete.
  5. Clear Residual Files and Registry Entries: Sometimes, remnants of IE11 stay behind and cause errors. To clean up:
    • Run a trusted system cleaner or registry cleaner tool.
    • Manually delete IE11-related folders, but only if you’re confident. Usually, they are located in C:\Program Files\Internet Explorer.
    • Be cautious and create a backup before deleting registry entries manually.
  6. Repair Windows if Necessary: Persistent issues might suggest system corruption. Running the System File Checker can help:
    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
    • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
    • Allow the scan to complete and fix corrupted files.

By following these steps, you can troubleshoot uninstall issues with IE11 effectively. Remember, some versions of Windows tightly integrate Internet Explorer, making complete removal difficult. When in doubt, seek professional help or consult Microsoft support for guidance specific to your system configuration.

Post-Uninstallation: What to Expect

Removing Internet Explorer 11 from Windows 10 changes how your system handles web browsing. After uninstallation, you won’t see the IE11 icon or have access to its features. This is a good step if you want a more secure, modern browsing experience or are switching to other browsers like Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox.

When IE11 is gone, some older applications or legacy systems that depended on it might stop working properly. If you use legacy software that requires IE11, you might need alternative solutions or compatibility modes. It’s also important to ensure your system remains secure and up-to-date after removing IE11.

Here’s what you can expect after uninstalling IE11:

  1. Native Windows Features: Some Windows features or tools may no longer explicitly depend on IE11. However, parts of Windows still use it internally. For example, certain troubleshooting tools or system pages might default to other rendering engines.
  2. Default Browser Changes: With IE11 removed, Windows will likely default to your chosen alternative browser. Make sure you set your preferred browser as default to avoid confusion when clicking on links or opening web pages.
  3. Security Benefits: Removing IE11 can reduce potential security vulnerabilities associated with outdated or legacy browser components. Switching to updated browsers ensures better security, faster updates, and improved privacy protections.
  4. Compatibility Considerations: Some enterprise or legacy applications may still rely on IE11 for proper operation. Consider installing Microsoft Edge’s “Internet Explorer mode” if you need to run old web apps without reinstalling IE11.

To keep your system secure after removing Internet Explorer 11, follow these tips:

  • Always keep your Windows system and other browsers updated with the latest patches.
  • Use comprehensive security software, including antivirus and anti-malware tools.
  • Regularly review your browser settings and clear cookies or cache to maintain privacy.
  • For legacy app compatibility, consider using Microsoft Edge’s Internet Explorer mode instead of reinstalling IE11.

If you encounter issues after uninstallation, such as broken links or app errors, check your default browser settings or compatibility options. You can also reinstall IE11 temporarily if needed, but it’s best to switch fully to supported modern browsers for security reasons.

Choosing Alternative Browsers for Windows 10

If you are looking to replace Internet Explorer 11 on Windows 10, exploring alternative browsers is a smart choice. Modern browsers provide better security, faster performance, and support for the latest web technologies. In this section, we will guide you through selecting and installing popular browsers that can serve as reliable replacements for IE11.

When choosing a new browser, consider factors like speed, security features, user interface, and compatibility with the websites and tools you frequently use. Some browsers are designed for privacy, while others focus on customization or seamless synchronization across devices. Let’s look at some popular options and what makes them stand out.

Popular Alternative Browsers for Windows 10

  • Google Chrome: Known for speed and extensive extension support, Chrome is a favorite among users worldwide. It offers automatic updates, strong security features, and integration with Google services.
  • Mozilla Firefox: An open-source browser emphasizing privacy and customization. Firefox provides robust security options and a wide array of add-ons to enhance your browsing experience.
  • Microsoft Edge: Since shifting from Internet Explorer, Edge is built on Chromium technology. It offers excellent performance, tight Windows integration, and features like vertical tabs and collections.
  • Opera: Known for innovative features like a built-in VPN, ad blocker, and battery saver. Opera appeals to users seeking more privacy and unique browsing tools.

Steps to Install a New Browser

  1. Choose your preferred browser: Visit the official website of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Opera using your current browser.
  2. Download the installer: Look for the “Download” button on the homepage and click it. Ensure you download from the official site to avoid security risks.
  3. Run the installer: Open the downloaded file, usually in your Downloads folder. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  4. Set as default browser (optional): During setup, some browsers will ask if you want to set them as your default. You can choose yes or skip, then change defaults later in Windows Settings.

Additional Tips for Transitioning

  • Back up your bookmarks and settings if switching browsers to maintain a smooth experience.
  • Explore browser-specific features like extensions, privacy settings, or themes to customize your new browser.
  • If you encounter compatibility issues, try updating the browser or adjusting security settings in Windows.

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