Use Settings to uninstall unwanted apps by going to Apps > Installed apps and removing bloatware like McAfee or Candy Crush. 2. For built-in apps such as Bing or Cortana, use PowerShell as admin with Remove-AppxPackage command after identifying the package. 3. Remove third-party software suites via Control Panel’s Programs and Features, targeting publishers like McAfee, Norton, or OEMs, but keep useful tools like Dell Update if needed. 4. Optionally, use trusted tools like Bulk Crap Uninstaller to automate removal of stubborn crapware, avoiding risky tools like CCleaner. 5. Prevent future bloatware by avoiding shady downloads, choosing custom installations, and considering Windows S Mode to limit app sources to the Microsoft Store. Removing unused pre-installed software improves performance, frees disk space, and reduces distractions, resulting in a faster, cleaner PC.

Getting rid of bloatware and crapware from a Windows PC can significantly improve performance, free up disk space, and reduce distractions. Most new Windows laptops come loaded with pre-installed apps and trial software you didn’t ask for — things like McAfee trials, Candy Crush, weather widgets, and other third-party tools. Here’s how to remove them effectively.

1. Uninstall Apps via Settings (Recommended for Most Users)

The easiest and safest way to remove unwanted apps is through Windows Settings.

Steps:

• Press Windows I to open Settings.
• Go to Apps > Installed apps (or Apps & features on older versions).
• Scroll through the list and look for apps you don’t use or recognize.
• Click on the app, then select Uninstall.
• Follow the prompts to complete removal.

? Tip: Pay attention to apps from companies like Adobe, AVG, Spotify, Netflix, or “Your Phone,” “Get Help,” or “Tips” — these are often bloatware on new PCs.

2. Use PowerShell to Remove Built-in Apps (Advanced)

Some pre-installed apps (especially Microsoft Store apps like Xbox, Bing, or Cortana) can’t be removed through Settings. You can use PowerShell to remove them system-wide.

Steps:

• Press Windows X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Terminal (Admin).
• Type the following command to see a list of all installed apps:

  Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName

• Find the app you want to remove (e.g., Microsoft.BingWeather).
• Run this command (replace the package name as needed):

  Remove-AppxPackage PackageFullName

  Example:

  Remove-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.Calculator_10.2103.8.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe

?? Warning: Be careful not to remove critical system packages. Stick to known consumer apps.

3. Disable or Remove Pre-Installed Software Suites

Many PCs come with third-party software suites (e.g., McAfee, Norton, Dell SupportAssist, HP JumpStart). These often run in the background and slow down your system.

How to remove:

• Open Control Panel (search for it in the Start menu).
• Go to Programs > Programs and Features.
• Sort by Publisher and look for entries from:
  • McAfee
  • Norton
  • Adobe
  • Spotify
  • WildTangent
  • Various OEMs (Dell, HP, Lenovo)
• Right-click and Uninstall.

?? Note: Some OEM tools (like Lenovo Vantage or Dell Update) are useful for drivers and system updates — consider keeping them if you plan to use the laptop long-term.

4. Use a Trusted Third-Party Tool (Optional)

If you want a faster, more automated approach, tools like BloatyNosy or Bulk Crap Uninstaller (BCU) can help.

• Bulk Crap Uninstaller scans for all installed software and lets you mass-uninstall crapware.
• It can detect bundled installers and trialware that Windows doesn’t easily remove.
• Always download from official sources (e.g., http://ipnx.cn/link/269cb020d9ca99cd774e42a274e6497c).

? Avoid tools like CCleaner for uninstalling — they’re outdated and potentially risky.

5. Prevent Future Bloatware

After cleaning your system:

• Avoid installing free software from shady websites — they often bundle junk.
• When installing apps, choose Custom Install and uncheck optional toolbars or offers.
• Consider using Windows 11/10 in S Mode (if available), which restricts app installs to the Microsoft Store only — reducing bloat.

Removing bloatware isn’t hard, but it does require a bit of care. Start with Settings, move to PowerShell for stubborn apps, and use third-party tools only if you’re comfortable. Most of the time, a clean uninstall from Programs & Features is enough.

Basically, if you didn’t install it and don’t use it — get rid of it. Your PC will feel faster and more responsive.

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