New Windows laptops usually come loaded with extra apps.

Most of them you didn’t ask for—and probably won’t use.

These apps can slow your system down, clutter your laptop, and in some cases create unnecessary risk.

Cleaning them up is one of the easiest things you can do right away.

What Is Bloatware?

Bloatware is pre-installed software that comes on your laptop by default.

This can include:

• trial antivirus programs
• games you didn’t install
• manufacturer apps you don’t need
• random utilities and toolbars

Not all of it is harmful—but most of it isn’t necessary.

How to Remove Apps on Windows

1. Click Start → Settings
2. Go to Apps
3. Click Installed apps
4. Select the app you want to remove
5. Click Uninstall
6. Follow the prompts

Done.

Apps You Can Usually Remove

• free trial antivirus software
• pre-installed games
• shopping or deal apps
• unused media players
• manufacturer-branded apps you don’t use

Apps You Should Be Careful With

Some apps are important for your system.

Be careful not to remove:

• drivers or hardware-related software
• system utilities you don’t recognize
• anything labeled Microsoft system components

If you’re not sure, leave it or look it up first.

One Smart Move Before You Start

Before removing a bunch of apps, create a system restore point.

This gives you a backup option if something breaks.

It takes a minute and can save you a headache later.

Why This Matters

The more unnecessary apps you keep:

• the more background activity your laptop runs
• the more potential vulnerabilities you introduce
• the harder it is to manage what’s actually installed

Less clutter = fewer problems.

Final Thought

You don’t need 40 apps on a brand-new laptop.

Keep what you use. Remove what you don’t.

Simple cleanup, better performance, less risk.