A majority of Windows 10 users prefer using Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox to browse the web. However, some applications and websites may require Internet Explorer 11 to work efficiently. However, if you are facing issues with IE 11, such as crashes or errors, you may want to uninstall and reinstall it. This blog outlines the different methods you can use to uninstall and reinstall IE 11 on Windows 10.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
- Windows 10 Operating System
- Administrator access
- A stable internet connection
What Requires Your Focus?
Uninstalling and reinstalling IE 11 on Windows 10 can be a straightforward process. However, it requires your focus and attention. Ensure you follow each step carefully. Before proceeding with uninstalling IE 11, back up your essential data and files to avoid accidental data loss.
Different Methods to Uninstall and Reinstall IE 11 on Windows 10
Method 1: Via Control Panel
Uninstalling and re-adding IE 11 via the Control Panel is one of the easiest and most effective methods.
- Click on the Start menu
- Select Control Panel
- Click on Programs and Features
- Select Turn Windows Features On or Off
- Locate Internet Explorer 11 and uncheck its box
- Click OK
- Restart your computer to initiate the uninstallation process
- To reinstall IE 11, follow the same path and check the box next to Internet Explorer 11
- Click OK and restart your system to complete the process
Pros:
- Easy to follow steps
- No advanced technical knowledge is required
Cons:
- The process may take long, especially when uninstalling IE 11
- The method may not work if Windows 10 is not updated to the latest version
Method 2: Using Command Prompt
You can also uninstall and reinstall IE 11 through Command Prompt.
- Press the Windows+R and type "cmd" to open Command Prompt
- Type "FORFILES /P %WINDIR%\servicing\Packages /M Microsoft-Windows-InternetExplorer-*11.*.mum /c "cmd /c echo Uninstalling package @fname && start /w pkgmgr /up:@fname /quiet /norestart"" and press Enter
- Restart your computer to finalize the uninstallation process.
- To reinstall IE 11, type "DISM /Online /Add-Capability /CapabilityName:InternetExplorer /LimitAccess /Source:%windir%\servicing\packages" and press Enter
- Restart your computer
Pros:
- A quicker alternative than using Control Panel
- You can uninstall other programs with this method as well.
Cons:
- The process requires an elevated Command Prompt
- If executed incorrectly, commands in Command Prompt can cause instability on your system.
Method 3: Using PowerShell
You can also uninstall and reinstall IE 11 using PowerShell.
- Press Windows and X together and select Windows PowerShell (Admin)
- Type "Get-WindowsCapability -Online -Name Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64" and press Enter
- Then, type "Remove-WindowsCapability -Name Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64 -Online" and press Enter
- Restart your computer to complete the uninstallation process.
- To reinstall IE 11, type "Add-WindowsCapability –Online –Name Internet-Explorer-Optional-amd64" and press Enter.
- Restart your computer
Pros:
- A quicker alternative than using Control Panel
- You can uninstall other programs with this method as well
Cons:
- The process requires an elevated PowerShell
- Incorrectly executing a command in PowerShell can cause instability on your system.
Why Can’t I Uninstall/Reinstall IE 11?
There may be several reasons why you are unable to uninstall or reinstall IE 11. Some common reasons include:
- The Windows operating system is not updated to the latest version.
- You do not have administrator access.
- Internet Explorer 11 is integrated with the operating system, thus making it difficult to uninstall.
To fix these issues, ensure your Windows Operating System is updated, grant yourself Administrator access, and use elevated Command Prompt or PowerShell to execute commands.
Implications and Recommendations
Uninstalling and reinstalling IE 11 can be a challenging process. It is recommended that you follow the steps mentioned above while using any of the methods outlined. Ensure you back up your essential files and data before proceeding with the methods.
5 FAQs about Uninstalling and Reinstalling IE 11 on Windows 10
Q1: How do I check if IE 11 is installed on my system?
A: To check, open Internet Explorer and select the gear icon in the upper right corner. Then, select About Internet Explorer. If it displays "Version 11", then IE 11 is installed in your system.
Q2: Will my bookmarks be saved when I uninstall and reinstall IE 11?
A: Your bookmarks will not be affected by uninstalling or reinstalling IE 11.
Q3: What version of IE will be installed after reinstalling?
A: After reinstalling IE 11, the latest available version will be installed on your system.
Q4: Will uninstalling IE 11 affect other programs on my system?
A: Uninstalling IE 11 will not harm any other installed programs. However, some applications may require Internet Explorer 11 to run.
Q5: Can I reinstall IE 11 without uninstalling it?
A: Yes, you can. Open Control Panel, select Programs and Features, and click on Turn Windows Features On or Off. Then, locate Internet Explorer 11 and uncheck its box. Click OK and wait for the process to finish. Finally, go back and check the box, click OK to enable IE 11 again.
In Conclusion
Uninstalling and reinstalling IE 11 on Windows 10 is a troubleshooting method that every user should know. As we have outlined in this blog, it requires focus and attention. You can use any of the methods outlined above to uninstall and reinstall IE 11. It is important to back up your data before making any changes to your system. If you face any issues while performing the above steps, seek professional help to avoid causing further damage to your system.
