How to Properly Uninstall Programs in Windows Vista

When you delete programs incorrectly, there is still a lot of information that is left in the Windows registry that needs to be deleted or re-configured. Items in the registry that are related to the deleted program will be abandoned and somewhat "orphaned." This registry data can cause many conflicts on your computer and can potentially cause fatal errors. That is why it is very important to properly uninstall programs.

Many people, for example, will delete programs by simply deleting the program's icon. They unknowingly assume that the program has thus been uninstalled. However, doing this can lead to system failures and many other problems with your computer.

The proper way to uninstall a program would be to use the uninstall program bundled with the software. Uninstall routines will not only remove files, but also delete registry information. You can use Windows Vista's Programs and Features control panel to uninstall programs.

The uninstall process for Windows Vista is very similar to previous versions of Windows. However, there are several new aspects of it that need to be explained.

=> Click the Start button near the bottom-left corner of the desktop.
=> Click the Control Panel button on the Start menu.
=> Locate the Uninstall a program icon in the Control Panel and double-click it. (If you are using the Classic View, double-click on Program and Features).

You should now be on the Programs and Features screen, which contains a list of all the programs installed on your computer. This screen also has four options:
*View Installed Updates,
*Get new programs online at Windows Marketplace,
*View purchased software (digital locker), and
*Turn Windows features on and off.
=> Locate the program you want to uninstall from the list of programs on this screen.
=> Select the program by clicking it. The program should now be highlighted.
=> When highlighted, you will be given a new options: Uninstall and Change.
=> Click the Uninstall button to begin uninstalling the program.
=> Windows will ask you if you want to proceed with the un-installation of the program. Click Yes. The individual program's uninstall wizard will then commence.
=> Now, simply follow the step-by-step instructions to safely uninstall the program.

To keep your computer system running efficiently with Windows Vista, you should always use this method when you wish to uninstall programs from your PC.

Tip:
You can also click the Change option if you want to modify a program that is currently installed.