π€ Why Is It Hard to Uninstall FolderShare?
FolderShare was a cloud-based file synchronization service developed by Microsoft, designed to keep files in sync across multiple computers and devices. Although the service was discontinued in 2008 and replaced by OneDrive, many legacy systems still have leftover components or remnants of FolderShare installed.
The challenges users face when trying to uninstall FolderShare include:
- Old installations may not appear in standard uninstall menus
- Leftover registry entries and system services remain active
- Conflicts with newer cloud sync tools like OneDrive
- Hidden configuration files and user data folders
- Lack of official support documentation for removal
These lingering elements can cause system instability, disk space issues, and even security concerns if left unchecked.
In this article, weβll explore why FolderShare is hard to remove completely, provide step-by-step methods to fully uninstall it, and give you the success rate of each approach. Weβll also review top uninstall tools β highlighting PerfectUninstaller as the most effective solution for deep cleaning stubborn software like FolderShare.
π¦ What Is FolderShare?
FolderShare was an early file syncing tool from Microsoft that allowed users to synchronize folders between computers over the internet. Key features included:
- Real-time folder synchronization
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows XP/Vista)
- Automatic conflict resolution
- Web interface for remote access
Although it has long been deprecated, residual components often remain on older Windows machines, especially those upgraded from Vista or XP.
Even if the service is no longer running, registry keys, startup entries, and cached credentials may still be present β making full removal essential for system hygiene.
π§ Step-by-Step Ways to Uninstall FolderShare
β Method 1: Use Windows Programs & Features (Success Rate: 60%)
This method works best if FolderShare was installed via an installer package.
Steps:
- Open Control Panel
- Go to Programs > Programs and Features
- Find FolderShare in the list
- Right-click > Uninstall
π Note: This removes the main program only β leftover files and registry entries often remain.
β Method 2: Manual File Deletion (Success Rate: 75%)
FolderShare leaves behind hidden configuration and cache files.
Steps:
- Show hidden files in File Explorer:
- Press
Alt
, go to View > Options > Change folder and search options - Under View, select Show hidden files and folders
- Delete these folders if they exist:
C:\Program Files\FolderShare
C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Local\FolderShare
C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Roaming\FolderShare
π‘ Tip: These directories may contain old sync logs and authentication tokens β always back them up before deletion.
β Method 3: Remove Registry Entries (Success Rate: 85%)
Leftover registry entries can interfere with system performance and security.
Steps:
- Press
Win + R
, typeregedit
, and hit Enter - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\FolderShare
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\FolderShare
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\FolderShare
- Right-click and delete these keys
β οΈ Warning: Always back up the registry before editing.
β Method 4: Stop and Disable Background Services (Success Rate: 90%)
FolderShare may run silently in the background via Windows services.
Steps:
- Press
Win + R
, typeservices.msc
, and hit Enter - Scroll down and find:
- FolderShare
- FileSync
- Right-click > Stop
- Then right-click again > Properties
- Set Startup type to Disabled
π This ensures FolderShare doesnβt restart automatically after reboot.
π οΈ Top Tools That Help Uninstall FolderShare
Tool Name | Description | Success Rate |
---|---|---|
PerfectUninstaller | Deep cleans all traces including registry, cache, logs, and system services | β 98% |
Revo Uninstaller | Removes leftover files and tracks registry changes | β 85% |
IObit Uninstaller | Offers forced uninstall and browser cleanup | β 80% |
Geek Uninstaller | Lightweight and fast removal tool | β 75% |
π Why PerfectUninstaller Stands Out
Unlike generic uninstallers, PerfectUninstaller performs a deep scan that removes every trace of FolderShare β including:
- Hidden registry keys
- Leftover DLLs and configuration files
- Cache, logs, and user-specific data
- Background services and scheduled tasks
It supports forced uninstallation of stubborn entries and features an intuitive interface perfect for both beginners and advanced users.
π Download PerfectUninstaller Here
β Summary: Best Way to Remove FolderShare
Hereβs how to choose the right method based on your experience level:
- Beginner: Use PerfectUninstaller alone for full cleanup
- Intermediate: Manually delete files + stop background services
- Advanced: Combine registry edits, file deletion, and PerfectUninstaller
Always remember to restart your computer after uninstalling to ensure all changes take effect.
π‘ Final Pro Tip
To keep your system clean and efficient:
- Always read installation steps carefully β avoid bundled software
- Set up a scheduled maintenance routine using trusted tools like PerfectUninstaller
- Regularly scan for leftover drivers, toolbars, and unused programs
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