How to get rid of apps not used

Windows 11 can identify unused apps for review, while still letting you choose exactly which apps to uninstall.

Review apps Windows considers unused

1. Select Start → Settings → System → Storage.
2. Open Cleanup recommendations.
3. Expand Unused apps.
4. Review the suggestions and select only the apps you want removed.
5. Select Clean up.

Windows displays the estimated space you can recover before removal.^1^

Choose apps directly from the complete list

If an app does not appear under Cleanup recommendations:

1. Select Start → Settings → Apps → Installed apps.
2. Find the app, or enter its name in the search box.
3. Select the three dots (…) beside it.
4. Select Uninstall → Uninstall, then follow any prompts.^2^

Before removing an unfamiliar app, search its name to determine whether it belongs to Windows, your computer manufacturer, or hardware such as a printer or graphics adapter.

Keep an app but stop it running automatically

If you rarely use an app but might need it later:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Select Startup apps.
3. Right-click the app and select Disable.

This keeps the app installed but prevents it from starting automatically and consuming background resources.^2^

References

1. [Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/experience/storage-filemanagement/free-up-drive-space-in-windows)
2. [Windows 11](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/experience/performance-optimization/tips-to-improve-pc-performance-in-windows#solution-3-free-up-disk-space-to-boost-pc-performance)