Simply dragging an app icon from your desktop into the Recycle Bin does not remove it from your computer. It leaves behind hundreds of registry entries, tracking files, and hidden storage caches that slowly clutter your system memory. Here is how to cleanly and completely uninstall software.
The Standard Windows Uninstallation Method
- Press the Windows Key + I to open your Settings app.
- Navigate to Apps > Installed apps (or Apps & Features on Windows 10).
- Scroll through the populated directory list or type the name of the software into the search bar.
- Click the three horizontal dots next to the application you want to delete and select Uninstall.
- Follow the software’s native uninstallation wizard prompts to remove the primary files.
Deep Cleaning: Sweeping Up Leftover Files
Native uninstallers frequently leave configuration folders behind in case you decide to reinstall the app later. To delete these scraps:
- Press Windows Key + R to open the Run box.
- Type
%appdata%and hit Enter. Look through the folder directory for any folders bearing the name of the deleted software or developer, and delete them. - Open the Run box again, type
%localappdata%, press Enter, and repeat the sweeping process.