How to Uninstall Google Workspace

Google Workspace, formerly known as G Suite, is a cloud-based productivity suite that includes Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and other collaborative tools designed for businesses and organizations. While it primarily operates in the browser, certain components like Google Workspace Sync for Microsoft Outlook (GWSMO) or Drive File Stream are installed locally on Windows systems to enhance integration with desktop applications.

Over time, users may need to uninstall Google Workspace-related software due to changes in work requirements, migration to other platforms, or system cleanup needs. This guide provides multiple methods to fully remove Google Workspace components from your Windows computer, including differences between 32-bit and 64-bit systems, as well as Windows 10 vs. Windows 11 compatibility considerations.

---

Method 1: Uninstall via Settings (Windows 10/11)

Steps:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to:

• Windows 10: Apps > Apps & Features
• Windows 11: Apps > Installed apps

1. In the search bar, type “Google Workspace” or related terms such as “Google Drive File Stream”, “Google Workspace Sync”, etc.
2. Click on the relevant app and select Uninstall.
3. Follow the prompts to complete the process.

Key Points:

• Simple and built-in method suitable for most users.
• Works identically across Windows 10 and Windows 11.
• On 64-bit systems, ensure you’re removing the correct version if both 32-bit and 64-bit versions are installed.

Limitations:

• Does not remove all residual files or registry entries.
• May leave behind configuration data, cached files, and background services.
• Some Google components may not appear directly in the list.

Success Rate: ~65%

---

Method 2: Use Control Panel (All Windows Versions)

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter to open Programs and Features.
2. Scroll through the list of installed programs and locate any Google Workspace-related software (e.g., “Google Drive File Stream”, “Google Workspace Sync for Microsoft Outlook”).
3. Right-click the program and choose Uninstall.
4. Repeat for each related component.

Key Points:

• More comprehensive than the Settings app—shows more detailed program names.
• Useful when dealing with older or less visible installations.
• Fully compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.

Limitations:

• Cannot remove deeply embedded registry keys or leftover folders.
• Background processes may still run even after uninstallation.

Success Rate: ~70%

---

Method 3: Manual Removal of Leftover Files and Registry Entries

Google Workspace components often leave behind hidden files, cache folders, and registry entries that can interfere with future installations or system performance.

Steps:

1. Delete Program Files:

• Go to C:\Program Files\Google\Workspace or C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\Workspace (for 32-bit systems).
• Delete the folder if it still exists.

1. Clear AppData:

• Press Win + R, type %AppData%, and hit Enter.
• Delete any folders related to Google Workspace or Google Drive.

1. Edit the Registry (Advanced Only):

• Open Registry Editor (regedit) as Administrator.
• Navigate to:
  HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Google\Workspace HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Google\Workspace
• Backup the registry before deleting any keys.

Key Points:

• Effective for removing hidden files and registry entries.
• Recommended for advanced users or IT professionals.

Limitations:

• High risk of system damage if registry edits are incorrect.
• Time-consuming and error-prone without proper technical knowledge.

Success Rate: ~80%

---

Method 4: Use Perfect Uninstaller (Third-Party Tool)

For a thorough and safe removal of Google Workspace—including stubborn files, registry keys, and background services—using a professional tool like Perfect Uninstaller is highly recommended.

Steps:

1. Download Perfect Uninstaller:

• Visit the official website or a trusted software repository.
• Ensure you download the correct version for your system (32-bit or 64-bit).

1. Install the Software:

• Run the installer and follow the setup wizard.
• Be cautious during installation to avoid bundled software.

1. Launch Perfect Uninstaller:

• Wait for the tool to scan and list all installed applications.

1. Select Google Workspace:

• Find the application in the list and click Uninstall.
• The tool will handle the removal process automatically.

1. Run Leftover Scan (Optional):

• After uninstallation, use the Leftover Scanner to detect and delete any remaining files, folders, and registry entries.

Key Points:

• Deep scanning ensures full removal of all traces.
• Fully compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit Windows systems.
• Works seamlessly on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Impact of Residual Files and Registry Entries:

• Orphaned registry entries can slow down system boot times and cause errors.
• Hidden cache files consume disk space and may conflict with reinstallation.
• Background services left running can drain memory and CPU resources unnecessarily.

Limitations:

• Advanced features may require purchasing a license.
• Potential risk of downloading fake or malicious clones from unofficial sources.

Success Rate: ~95%

---

Conclusion and Professional Opinion

Uninstalling Google Workspace components from a Windows system requires more than just using the standard uninstaller. Many users are unaware that local integrations like Google Drive File Stream or Workspace Sync for Outlook can leave behind residual files, registry entries, and background processes that affect system stability and performance.

While native tools like Settings and Control Panel offer a simple way to begin the uninstallation process, they often fall short in removing all traces of the software. For deeper cleaning, manual file deletion and registry editing provide better results but demand technical expertise and carry significant risks.

The most effective and safest solution for most users is to use a professional third-party uninstaller like Perfect Uninstaller. Its ability to perform deep scans, identify orphaned data, and remove all traces of Google Workspace makes it an invaluable tool for maintaining a clean and optimized system.

As a professional recommendation, always start with built-in OS tools, then proceed with manual cleanup if necessary. If system anomalies persist or maximum cleanliness is required, turn to Perfect Uninstaller to guarantee full removal and optimal performance.

Always ensure that third-party tools are downloaded from verified and secure sources to protect against potential malware or security threats. By choosing the appropriate method based on your system configuration and experience level, you can safely and effectively uninstall Google Workspace from your Windows computer.