It’s Getting Much Harder to Uninstall Microsoft Edge

To keep up with the competition, Microsoft has revamped its Edge browser with new features and a Chromium base. However, Microsoft Edge is now being delivered via Windows Update. Which means it’s becoming much more difficult to uninstall Microsoft Edge. Unless you know your way around the Command Prompt.

Why Microsoft Edge Is Sticking Around

Microsoft discusses this change in a Microsoft Support note. Previously, users had to manually download the new version of Microsoft Edge. However, to ensure everyone is using the same version, Microsoft is now delivering the new Microsoft Edge via Windows Update. Some people will have it already, with everyone else due to get it soon.

Microsoft states that this move will ensure all users receive critical Microsoft Edge updates:

“We want to ensure all Windows customers have the latest Microsoft Edge browser for the performance, privacy, security, productivity, and support features it offers.”

As such, if you installed Microsoft Edge manually, you can still uninstall it. However, once the update lands on your computer, Microsoft Edge will be bundled with it.

Because this version of the browser is part of a system update, it’s not regarded as normal software, so you cannot remove it by conventional means.

As Microsoft states:

“The new version of Microsoft Edge is included in a Windows system update, so the option to uninstall it or use the legacy version of Microsoft Edge will no longer be available.”

This includes uninstalling it from the Add or Remove Programs menu. Instead, you’ll have to uninstall Microsoft Edge via a workaround only suitable for experienced users.

Microsoft’s Fight Against the Competition

For years, Chrome and Firefox have usurped Microsoft’s offerings to become the most used web browsers. However, on January 17, 2020, Microsoft released the Chromium-based version of Edge. This version reaped all the benefits of a Chromium base and took a significant step in the right direction.

Now it seems that Microsoft is trying to scrub out the legacy version of Edge.

Rolling Out the New Microsoft Edge

With this update, everyone will be forced to use the new Chromium-based version. And not only is it impossible to uninstall Microsoft Edge without delving into the Command Prompt, you’ll also be unable to use the legacy version.

If you’re still in the dark about the new Chromium version of Microsoft Edge, be sure to read how the new Microsoft Edge compares to the legacy version.

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