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How to Fix and Uninstall Greyed Out Apps on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Sometimes, apps on Windows 11 show up as greyed out, making it impossible to open, fix, or uninstall them. This can be frustrating, especially when you need to manage your apps quickly. Fortunately, there are simple ways to resolve this issue.

In this guide, we will walk you through clear and easy steps to fix and uninstall greyed out apps on your Windows 11 system. Each step is explained in detail to ensure even beginners can follow along without confusion.

Whether you want to repair the app or completely remove it, this guide covers everything from quick checks to more advanced solutions. By the end, you will know how to handle this problem efficiently.

Let’s get started and make your apps fully accessible again.

Quick Note: Preliminary Checks

Before diving into complex fixes, it’s important to perform some quick checks. These help ensure that the problem isn’t caused by simple reasons that are easy to fix.

  • Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple reboot can refresh the system and fix temporary glitches causing apps to grey out.
  • Check for Windows Updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates. Updates can fix bugs affecting app management.
  • Ensure you have proper permissions: Make sure you are logged in with an account that has administrator rights, as limited accounts might not allow app changes.
  • Check if the app is currently running: An app cannot be uninstalled if it is open. Close it fully via Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).

Step 1: Use the Settings App to Repair or Reset

Windows 11 allows you to repair or reset apps directly from the Settings app. Repairing fixes the app without deleting your data, while resetting restores it to default but may erase app data.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Click on Apps from the sidebar, then select Installed apps.
  3. Scroll to find the greyed out app, or use the search box.
  4. Click the three dots (⋮) next to the app and choose Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down to find Repair and click it. Wait for the process to finish.
  6. If repairing doesn’t work, try clicking Reset. Confirm the prompt to reset the app.

This method is important because it can fix corrupted app files or settings without uninstalling the app completely.

Step 2: Use PowerShell to Uninstall the Greyed Out App

If the uninstall button is greyed out, Windows Settings might not allow removal. Using PowerShell provides a more direct way to uninstall apps.

  1. Click the Start menu, type PowerShell, then right-click and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the PowerShell window, type the following command to list all installed apps:
    3. Get-AppxPackage | Select Name, PackageFullName
  3. Find the app you want to uninstall from the list. Copy the PackageFullName exactly.
  4. Type the uninstall command, replacing PackageFullName with the actual name:
    5. Remove-AppxPackage PackageFullName
  5. Press Enter. The app will be uninstalled.

Using PowerShell is a powerful method because it bypasses some UI restrictions and can remove stubborn apps.

Step 3: Use the Control Panel or Third-Party Uninstaller

Some apps installed traditionally (not from Microsoft Store) can be uninstalled via Control Panel or third-party tools.

  1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter to open Control Panel.
  2. Click on Programs and Features.
  3. Find the app that is greyed out in the list.
  4. If the uninstall option is active, click it and follow the prompts.
  5. If the uninstall option is still greyed out, consider using reputable third-party uninstallers like Revo Uninstaller for deeper removal.

This method is useful for traditional desktop apps that don’t appear properly in the Settings app or PowerShell.

Step 4: Check for System Integrity Issues

If apps stay greyed out despite the above methods, your system files might be corrupted. Running system checks can help restore integrity.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator:
    • Click Start, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It will repair corrupted system files automatically.
  4. After completion, restart your PC and check the app status again.

System file checker is important because many app issues arise from underlying Windows corruption.

Alternative Methods and Advanced Options

If the problem persists, you can try:

  • Create a new user profile: Sometimes, user profile corruption causes app problems. Creating a new account can fix this.
  • Reinstall the app: Search for the app in Microsoft Store and reinstall it.
  • Use Safe Mode: Boot into Safe Mode and try uninstalling apps there to avoid interference from third-party software.

FAQs

Why are some apps greyed out in Windows 11?

Apps may be greyed out due to system restrictions, lack of permissions, the app running in the background, or because the app is managed by the system and cannot be modified easily.

Can I uninstall built-in Windows apps?

Some built-in apps can be uninstalled via PowerShell, but others are protected by Windows and cannot be removed without advanced methods.

What happens if I reset an app?

Resetting an app deletes its data and settings, restoring it to its original state. This can fix issues caused by corrupted data but will erase app preferences.

Is it safe to use PowerShell to remove apps?

Yes, but be cautious. Removing essential system apps can affect Windows functionality. Always ensure you uninstall only non-critical apps.

My uninstall button is still greyed out after trying everything. What now?

This may indicate deeper system issues or restrictions. Consider contacting Microsoft Support or visiting official forums for targeted help.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and the apps remain greyed out, consider these final options:

  • Run Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter.
  • Reset or reinstall Windows: As a last resort, backing up your data and performing a fresh Windows installation can resolve persistent app issues.
  • Visit official Microsoft support pages: Microsoft Support offers detailed help and community forums.

Conclusion

Greyed out apps on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most issues can be resolved using simple methods. Start with basic checks like restarting your PC and updating Windows. Use the Settings app to repair or reset the app, and turn to PowerShell for stubborn removals.

If traditional uninstall methods fail, exploring system integrity checks and alternative approaches can help. Always proceed carefully, especially when using advanced tools.

By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to fix or uninstall greyed out apps smoothly and regain full control of your Windows 11 system.

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