Microsoft Store is a built-in feature of Windows 11 that allows users to easily download and install applications, games, and other digital content. However, there may be instances where you want to uninstall the Microsoft Store app from your Windows 11 device. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the steps to uninstall Microsoft Store on Windows 11.
Step 1: Open the Start menu by clicking on the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
Step 2: In the Start menu, search for "PowerShell" and click on the "Windows PowerShell" app to open it.
Step 3: In the PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.WindowsStore | Remove-AppxPackage
Step 4: Wait for the command to execute. Once completed, the Microsoft Store app will be uninstalled from your Windows 11 device.
Step 5: Restart your computer to complete the uninstallation process.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Removes the Microsoft Store app, freeing up storage space. | 1. You will no longer have access to apps, games, and other content available on the Microsoft Store. |
| 2. Can potentially improve system performance by removing a built-in app. | 2. Some Windows 11 features may rely on the Microsoft Store app, and uninstalling it may cause compatibility issues. |
| 3. Provides more control over the apps and software installed on your Windows 11 device. | 3. Reinstalling the Microsoft Store app in the future might require additional steps. |
Uninstalling the Microsoft Store app is a decision that should be made with caution. Consider the pros and cons mentioned above before proceeding with the uninstallation process.
Video Tutorial:When I try to uninstall a program it won’t uninstall?
How to stop Microsoft Store from opening automatically Windows 11?
To stop Microsoft Store from opening automatically in Windows 11, you can follow these steps:
1. Open the "Settings" app: You can do this by clicking on the Start button and selecting the gear icon for "Settings" in the left-hand menu.
2. Go to "Apps": Within the Settings app, locate and click on the "Apps" category. This is where you can manage all your installed applications.
3. Click on "Startup": In the left-hand menu of the Apps settings, click on "Startup." Here, you’ll find a list of applications that run automatically when you start up your computer.
4. Locate Microsoft Store: In the list of applications, find and click on "Microsoft Store" to select it.
5. Disable auto-start: After selecting Microsoft Store, click on the "Disable" button that appears below the list. This will prevent the Microsoft Store from opening automatically when you start your computer.
6. Restart your computer: To ensure the changes take effect, it’s recommended to restart your computer.
By following these steps, you can stop Microsoft Store from opening automatically in Windows 11. This can help you have more control over your system’s startup process and prevent certain applications from launching without your consent.
Is there a way to uninstall Microsoft Store?
As a tech blogger, I understand that there might be several reasons why someone would want to uninstall the Microsoft Store on their device. While it is not possible to completely uninstall the Microsoft Store from Windows devices, there are a few methods that you can follow to disable its functionality. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Disable Microsoft Store using Group Policy Editor:
a. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type "gpedit.msc" and press Enter.
b. In the Group Policy Editor window, navigate to User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Store.
c. Double-click on the "Turn off Store application" policy.
d. Select the "Enabled" option and click on "Apply" and then "OK."
2. Disable Microsoft Store using Windows PowerShell:
a. Right-click on the Start button and select "Windows PowerShell (Admin)" to open an elevated PowerShell window.
b. Type or paste the following command and press Enter:
"`powershell
Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Remove-AppxPackage
"`
Please note that disabling the Microsoft Store may prevent you from installing or updating certain apps and accessing specific features tied to the Store. It is recommended to create a backup or a system restore point before making any changes.
Remember that the Microsoft Store offers a wide range of apps, including useful tools and utilities. It might be worth considering whether you truly need to uninstall it or if there are alternative solutions to address the specific concerns you might have.
How to unblock or disable the Microsoft Store in Windows 11?
To unblock or disable the Microsoft Store in Windows 11, you can follow these steps:
1. Open the Start menu and click on the Settings icon (represented by a cogwheel).
2. In the Settings window, select "Apps" from the left-hand side panel.
3. Click on the "Apps & features" option.
4. Scroll down and locate the "Microsoft Store" in the list of installed apps.
5. Once you find it, click on the Microsoft Store entry to reveal additional options.
6. Click on the "Advanced options" link.
7. In the Advanced options window, you will find a toggle switch labeled "Terminate" or "Reset".
8. Toggle the switch to the "On" position to terminate or reset the Microsoft Store.
Disabling or terminating the Microsoft Store restricts access to the store and prevents users from downloading or updating apps through it. This may be useful in certain situations, such as in an enterprise environment where strict control over software installations is desired or to troubleshoot issues related to the store.
Please note that disabling or terminating the Microsoft Store may impact the functionality of certain apps or prevent you from accessing specific features that rely on the store. It is recommended to exercise caution and thoroughly consider the implications before taking this step.
Why is Microsoft Store blocked on Windows 11?
The Microsoft Store being blocked on Windows 11 can be attributed to a few reasons or steps taken by Microsoft. Here’s an explanation from a professional tech blogger’s perspective:
1. Introduction of the Microsoft Store: The Microsoft Store is a digital distribution platform whereby users can download various applications, games, and entertainment content for their Windows devices. It offers a convenient and centralized marketplace for users to discover and download apps.
2. Windows 11 OS changes: Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, designed to offer an enhanced user experience with a new interface and improved features. As part of the Windows 11 revamp, Microsoft has introduced changes to the Microsoft Store.
3. Decentralization of app distribution: Microsoft has made critical changes by allowing third-party app stores to be installed and giving users more freedom to choose where they get their applications. This decision aims to encourage a more open and competitive ecosystem, providing users with greater flexibility and diverse options.
4. Emphasis on progressive web apps (PWAs): Progressive web apps are a modern approach to web applications that can be installed directly from a website. Windows 11 prioritizes PWAs and provides native support for them, allowing users to install and use these web apps seamlessly without going through the Microsoft Store.
5. Better compatibility with Android apps: Windows 11 has also introduced support for Android apps. Through a partnership with Amazon and its Appstore, users can now access a wider range of applications, including popular Android titles, directly on their Windows 11 devices. This integration reduces the reliance on the Microsoft Store for app availability.
6. App sideloading capabilities: Windows 11 also allows users to sideload applications, which means they can install apps from sources other than the Microsoft Store. This feature provides users with more flexibility, especially when it comes to installing custom or specialized applications that may not be available through the official store.
By making these changes, Microsoft has aimed to provide users with a more open, customizable, and competitive app ecosystem on Windows 11. The decision to block the Microsoft Store as the sole app distribution channel emphasizes their commitment to offering users more choices and allowing them to explore alternative sources for their app needs.
Can I turn off Microsoft Store?
Yes, you can turn off Microsoft Store on your Windows computer. Here are the steps to do so:
1. Open the "Settings" app. You can do this by clicking on the Start button and selecting the gear icon.
2. In the "Settings" app, click on the "Apps" category.
3. On the left-hand side, click on the "Apps & features" option.
4. Scroll down the list of apps and locate "Microsoft Store". Click on it.
5. You will see an "Advanced options" link. Click on it.
6. In the advanced options, you will find a toggle switch labeled as "Enable the Microsoft Store". Toggle it off to disable the Microsoft Store.
7. A confirmation prompt may appear, asking if you want to hide the store icon as well. You can choose either option based on your preference.
8. Close the "Settings" app.
Please note that turning off Microsoft Store will prevent you from accessing and installing apps from the Microsoft Store. However, it’s important to keep in mind that disabling Microsoft Store may impact certain system functionality and may limit your ability to download and update certain Microsoft applications that rely on it for software distribution and updates.
If you ever decide to re-enable Microsoft Store, you can follow the same steps and toggle the "Enable the Microsoft Store" switch back on.
Why can’t I uninstall the Microsoft Store?
The Microsoft Store is a built-in feature of Windows 10 and is designed to provide users with easy access to various applications, games, and entertainment content. It serves as a platform to distribute software from Microsoft and its partners. However, there are a few reasons why you may not be able to uninstall the Microsoft Store:
1. System Dependency: The Microsoft Store is deeply integrated into the Windows 10 operating system and many system components rely on its presence. Uninstalling it may cause instability or affect the functionality of other Windows features and applications.
2. Windows Updates and App Installations: The Microsoft Store is responsible for delivering important Windows updates, including bug fixes, security patches, and new features. Additionally, many applications and games from the Microsoft Store rely on its presence for installation, updates, and licensing verification.
3. Store-Related Apps and Services: Along with the Microsoft Store app itself, there are several other associated apps and services that are interconnected. These include the Windows Store Service (WSService), the Microsoft Store Installer Service (WSServiceInstaller), and other background processes. Removing the Microsoft Store may disrupt the functioning of these services as well.
4. Platform Integration: The Microsoft Store provides a unified platform for developers to distribute their apps and reach a wide user base. It also helps maintain consistency and security standards across applications. If the Microsoft Store were to be uninstalled, it could potentially impact this ecosystem, making it difficult for developers to distribute and update their apps efficiently.
Considering these reasons, Microsoft has made it challenging to uninstall the Microsoft Store directly from Windows 10. While there may be workarounds found on the internet, it is essential to exercise caution and only proceed with any modifications if you fully understand the potential consequences and have a backup plan in place.