Use the uninstallation wizard to remove unwanted programs.
trash image by Orlando Florin Rosu from Fotolia.com
Cleaning out your computer every few months keeps things running smoothly and gives you an opportunity to eliminate unneeded applications. To uninstall all the files on your Dell PC, you have two options. You can manually uninstall each application individually, or you can complete reinstall Windows, wiping your computer clean of everything except the default system files. The latter option completely deletes everything and should be done only after any important information is backed up.
Uninstalling Specific Programs
Step 1
Select the "Control Panel" in the Windows Start menu.
Step 2
Click "Uninstall a Program" below "Programs." A list of all installed applications will appear.
Step 3
Select an application to remove and click "Uninstall." The uninstallation wizard will start. Follow the onscreen prompts to completely remove the program. Depending on the application, you may need to restart your computer. Repeat these steps for each listed application.
Reinstalling Windows
Step 1
Insert your Windows disk into the computer and restart the computer. Press any key to boot from the disc as the computer starts up.
Step 2
Select "Install Now" from the Windows Install window. Accept the license agreement.
Step 3
Select "Custom" install. Choose the C: drive to install on. A warning will inform you that this drive contains a previous installation of Windows. Select "OK" to start the installation.
Step 4
Follow the onscreen prompts to continue with the installation. Once the installation is complete, the computer will restart and boot into your clean Windows installation. Files previously on your computer will be gone.
Tip
- You can move unwanted files that aren't applications to the Recycle Bin. Be sure to empty the Recycle Bin (right-click, then select "Empty" or "Empty Recycle Bin") to completely remove them from your computer.
Photo Credits
- trash image by Orlando Florin Rosu from Fotolia.com
