Uninstall Programs on Windows 10 Command Line

How to Uninstall a Program on Windows 10 via Command Line

Uninstalling software from Windows 10 can be achieved quickly through the command line. This method is particularly beneficial for users who prefer working within a text-based environment or need to automate the process through scripts. In this guide, we will explore two primary methods for uninstalling programs from Windows 10: using WMIC (Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line) and PowerShell.

Method 1: Uninstalling Using WMIC

WMIC is a powerful tool built into Windows that allows users to manage many aspects of the operating system via command line. Here’s how to use WMIC to uninstall a program:

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator:
• Press Windows key + X.
• Select Command Prompt (Admin) from the menu.
2. Type the command wmic and hit Enter.
3. To view all installed programs, type:

product get name

4. Identify the program you want to uninstall from the list.
5. To uninstall the selected application, type the following command (replace {Your Application} with the actual name of the program):

product where name="{Your Application}" call uninstall

6. Confirm the action if prompted.

Method 2: Uninstalling Using PowerShell

PowerShell offers more advanced features and is generally more flexible than WMIC. Here’s how to uninstall a program using PowerShell:

1. Open PowerShell as an administrator:
• Press Windows key + X.
• Select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. List all installed applications by running:

Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product | Select-Object -Property Name

3. Locate the targeted application from the list.
4. To uninstall the program, employ the following command:

Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product -Filter "Name='Your Application'" | ForEach-Object { $_.Uninstall() }

5. Again, confirm if necessary.

Common Issues When Uninstalling

While uninstalling via command line is efficient, users may encounter specific issues:

• Program Name Not Found: Ensure the exact name of the program matches what is listed.
• Permission Issues: Always open the command prompt or PowerShell with administrative rights.
• Partial Uninstall: Some programs may leave remnants; consider using third-party tools for clean-up.

Pro Tips for Uninstallation

• Keep your software updated to avoid conflicting issues during uninstallation.
• If you often uninstall software, consider using scripts to automate the process.
• Regularly check for dependencies and remaining files after uninstallation.

Conclusion

Uninstalling applications through the command line in Windows 10 is a powerful approach, particularly for advanced users who appreciate flexibility or require automation. Whether using WMIC or PowerShell, mastering these commands can significantly enhance your efficiency. Always ensure you have the correct application name and run commands as an administrator to avoid errors during the process.

Update: 02 Oct 2025