How to Uninstall Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is a widely used open-source web browser known for its strong privacy features, customization capabilities, and cross-platform compatibility. While it offers numerous advantages such as enhanced tracking protection and support for a wide range of extensions, some users may choose to uninstall it due to performance issues, preference for alternative browsers like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, or system conflicts.

A complete uninstallation of Mozilla Firefox ensures that no residual files, registry entries, or user data remain on the system, which could otherwise affect future software installations or system stability. This guide provides multiple methods to fully remove Mozilla Firefox from Windows 10 and Windows 11, with specific attention to differences between 32-bit and 64-bit systems. Each method includes detailed steps, limitations, and estimated success rates.

---

Method 1: Uninstall via Control Panel (Programs and Features)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter to launch the Programs and Features window.
3. Scroll through the list of installed applications until you locate Mozilla Firefox.
4. Click once on the entry, then click Uninstall at the top of the window.
5. Confirm the action when prompted and follow the on-screen instructions.
6. Restart your computer after the process completes.

Notes:

• On 64-bit Windows, both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Firefox may appear depending on what was originally installed.
• This method works identically on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Disadvantages:

• May leave behind configuration files, cache, and registry entries.
• Does not always remove all user profiles or bookmarks.

Success Rate: 70–80%

---

Method 2: Use Built-in Windows Settings (Apps & Features)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

For Windows 10:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Navigate to Apps > Apps & Features.
3. Locate Mozilla Firefox in the application list.
4. Click on it and select Uninstall.
5. Follow the prompts to complete the removal.

For Windows 11:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Search for Mozilla Firefox if necessary.
4. Click the three-dot menu next to the app and select Uninstall.
5. Confirm and follow the on-screen instructions.

Notes:

• This method provides a more modern interface compared to the Control Panel.
• It is functionally similar to Method 1 but integrates better with newer OS versions.

Disadvantages:

• Still does not guarantee full cleanup of user-specific data or registry entries.

Success Rate: 75–85%

---

Method 3: Manual Removal via File System and Registry Editor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Close all instances of Firefox.
2. Use Control Panel > Programs and Features to perform an initial uninstall using Method 1.
3. Navigate to the following directories and delete any folders related to Firefox:

• C:\Program Files\Mozilla Firefox (for 32-bit)
• C:\Program Files (x86)\Mozilla Firefox (for 64-bit)
• C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\Mozilla
• C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Mozilla

1. Open Registry Editor (regedit) as Administrator.
2. Back up the registry before proceeding.
3. Delete any registry keys under:

• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Mozilla
• HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Mozilla

Notes:

• This method should only be used by advanced users familiar with the Windows registry.
• Incorrect deletions can lead to system instability or software malfunctions.

Disadvantages:

• High risk of damaging the operating system if performed incorrectly.
• Time-consuming and complex for average users.

Success Rate: 80–90% (with caution)

---

Method 4: Use Perfect Uninstaller Software

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. If not already installed, download Perfect Uninstaller from its official website.
2. Launch the software after installation.
3. From the list of installed programs, locate Mozilla Firefox.
4. Select the program and click Uninstall.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation.
6. After removal, use the built-in Scan for Leftovers feature to detect and delete remaining files and registry entries.
7. Restart your computer to finalize changes.

Notes:

• Perfect Uninstaller automatically detects and removes leftover components.
• Compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11, and supports 32-bit and 64-bit architectures.

Advantages:

• More thorough than standard uninstallers.
• User-friendly interface suitable for non-technical users.

Disadvantages:

• Requires downloading third-party software.
• Free version may have limited functionality unless upgraded to the full license.

Success Rate: 95–98%

---

Final Thoughts & Professional Recommendation

Each method for uninstalling Mozilla Firefox presents different levels of complexity and effectiveness. For general users, Method 2 (via Windows Settings) is the most straightforward and safest option. However, if residual data remains or a deeper cleanup is required, Method 4 (Perfect Uninstaller) offers the highest degree of completeness and reliability.

As a professional, I advise starting with native Windows tools before resorting to third-party solutions. That said, utilities like Perfect Uninstaller are invaluable when dealing with persistent leftovers or preparing for a clean reinstallation of another browser. Always ensure to back up important data before performing manual deletions or registry edits.

In summary, while basic uninstallation methods are sufficient for most scenarios, achieving a truly clean removal often requires additional steps or specialized tools. Understanding the distinctions between 32-bit and 64-bit systems, as well as differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, is essential for ensuring a successful and complete uninstallation of Mozilla Firefox.