How to uninstall Windows internet explorer?

Uninstalling Windows Internet Explorer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Why Uninstall Internet Explorer?

Before we dive into the process of uninstalling Windows Internet Explorer, let’s quickly discuss why you might want to do so. Internet Explorer (IE) is a legacy browser that has been around since the 90s, and while it’s still supported by Microsoft, it’s not as widely used as it once was. In fact, according to Microsoft, only about 2% of users still use Internet Explorer. With the rise of modern web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge, it’s time to consider uninstalling Internet Explorer and upgrading to a more modern browser.

Preparation is Key

Before you start uninstalling Internet Explorer, make sure you have the following:

• Backup your files: If you’re planning to uninstall Internet Explorer, it’s a good idea to backup your files and data to an external drive or cloud storage service. This will ensure that your important files are safe in case something goes wrong during the uninstallation process.
• Check for updates: Make sure your Windows operating system is up to date, as Internet Explorer is no longer supported by Microsoft.
• Choose a safe uninstallation method: You can use the built-in Windows uninstaller or a third-party tool to uninstall Internet Explorer. We’ll cover both options below.

Uninstalling Internet Explorer using the Built-in Uninstaller

The built-in Windows uninstaller is a convenient option, but it may not be the most effective way to uninstall Internet Explorer. Here’s how to use it:

• Open the Control Panel: Click on the Start button and select "Control Panel" from the menu.
• Click on "Programs and Features": In the Control Panel, click on "Programs and Features" (or "Uninstall a program" in some versions).
• Select Internet Explorer: In the list of installed programs, select "Internet Explorer" from the list.
• Click on "Uninstall": Click on the "Uninstall" button next to Internet Explorer.
• Follow the prompts: The uninstaller will guide you through the process of removing Internet Explorer. Be sure to select the "Remove all user files" option to ensure that all files associated with Internet Explorer are removed.

Uninstalling Internet Explorer using a Third-Party Tool

If you prefer to use a third-party tool to uninstall Internet Explorer, here are a few options:

• CCleaner: CCleaner is a popular tool that can help you remove Internet Explorer and other files associated with the browser. Download and install CCleaner, then follow the prompts to uninstall Internet Explorer.
• Revo Uninstaller: Revo Uninstaller is another popular tool that can help you remove Internet Explorer and other files associated with the browser. Download and install Revo Uninstaller, then follow the prompts to uninstall Internet Explorer.
• Windows 10 Settings: You can also use the Windows 10 Settings app to uninstall Internet Explorer. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Open the Settings app.
  • Click on "Update & Security".
  • Click on "Windows Security".
  • Click on "View installed apps".
  • Select "Internet Explorer" from the list of installed apps.
  • Click on "Uninstall" to remove Internet Explorer.

Removing Internet Explorer Files and Folders

After uninstalling Internet Explorer, you’ll need to remove the files and folders associated with the browser. Here are some steps to follow:

• Remove Internet Explorer files: You can use the Windows File Explorer to delete the following files:

  • %SystemRoot%System32iehost.exe
  • %SystemRoot%System32iehostw.exe
  • %SystemRoot%System32iehost3.exe
  • %SystemRoot%System32iehost4.exe

• Remove Internet Explorer folders: You can use the Windows File Explorer to delete the following folders:

  • %SystemRoot%Program FilesInternet Explorer
  • %SystemRoot%Program Files (x86)Internet Explorer

Removing Internet Explorer Registry Entries

Internet Explorer has a number of registry entries that can be removed to help speed up your computer. Here are some steps to follow:

• Open the Registry Editor: You can use the Windows Registry Editor to remove Internet Explorer registry entries. To do this, follow these steps:

  • Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type regedit and press Enter.
  • Navigate to the following key:

    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInternet ExplorerIeVersion
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInternet ExplorerIeVersion2
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInternet ExplorerIeVersion3
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInternet ExplorerIeVersion4

  • Right-click on each of these keys and select "Delete" to remove the registry entries.

• Remove Internet Explorer startup entries: You can also remove Internet Explorer startup entries by following these steps:

  • Open the Windows Registry Editor.
  • Navigate to the following key:

    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftInternet ExplorerIeVersion

  • Right-click on each of the following entries and select "Delete" to remove the registry entries.
  • Restart your computer to ensure that the changes take effect.

Conclusion

Uninstalling Internet Explorer is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to be careful when doing so. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to uninstall Internet Explorer and upgrade to a more modern browser. Remember to backup your files and data before uninstalling Internet Explorer, and be sure to remove any remaining files and folders associated with the browser.