How to Remove Unwanted Programs on a Windows PC

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

This guide will help you remove unwanted programs that may be causing malicious pop-ups to show up on your Windows PC. By doing this you can optimize your computer's performance, improve its privacy and prevent it from getting infected with malware.

Tools You'll Need:

  • No extra tools are needed.

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Supplies You'll Need:

  • No extra supplies are needed.

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Before You Begin:

No extra instructions.

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Microsoft Windows.

Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs)

If you experience things literally popping-up that appear to be some sort of program or software you've never seen before, this is likely junky software that was mistakenly or accidentally installed on your system. These types of things are generally referred to as PUPs, or "Potentially Unwanted Programs." PUPs generally tag along with other software installations, or could be something you were tricked into installing altogether. Most of these types of programs are designed to trick you into buying something you don't need, or could be potentially malicious.

Fake anti-virus message. Screenshot

2. How to Uninstall a Program

You may need to remove an app or program because you need the space, simply don't need it anymore, or it is malicious. The following steps show you how to easily remove an app. The first method is exclusive to Windows 10, the second method will work with all Windows versions.

Windows 10 - Using Windows Settings

  1. Click Start (1), then click Settings (2).
Windows start menu with the start button and settings highlighted.
  1. Next, Select Apps.
Windows Settings with Apps highlighted.
  1. Scroll down and locate the app you wish to remove, and click on Uninstall.
Apps screen with the uninstall option for an app highlighted.
  1. Carefully read any prompts in case there are special instructions. Proceed until the application is removed.
  2. Some applications may require that you reboot.

All Windows Versions - Using Control Panel

  1. On your keyboard push and release the Windows Key and R at the same time.
PC Desktop Keyboard with Windows key and R highlighted.
  1. You will see a Run window open up. Type in appwiz.cpl then click on OK.
Run windows with appwiz.cpl typed and OK highlighted. Screenshot
  1. Locate a program you wish to remove within the list, click once on it to highlight it, then click on Uninstall.
Uninstall window with program and uninstall highlighted. Screenshot
  1. Carefully read any prompts in case there are special instructions. Proceed until the application is removed.
  2. Some applications may require that your computer be restarted to complete the uninstallation.