How Can I Completely Delete Python From Windows?

AvatarByBarbara Hernandez Python

If you’ve ever installed Python on your Windows computer but now find yourself needing to remove it, you’re not alone. Whether it’s to free up space, troubleshoot conflicting software, or simply start fresh with a different version, knowing how to properly uninstall Python is essential. Deleting Python from Windows might seem straightforward, but there are important considerations to ensure that all components are fully removed without affecting your system’s stability.

Uninstalling Python involves more than just deleting a folder; it requires navigating through Windows settings and managing environment variables that Python may have altered during installation. Additionally, depending on how Python was installed—whether via the official installer, Windows Store, or third-party tools—the removal process can vary slightly. Understanding these nuances will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a clean uninstallation.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the key steps to safely and effectively delete Python from your Windows machine. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the process and be ready to manage your Python installations with confidence.

Uninstalling Python via Windows Settings

To remove Python from a Windows system, the most straightforward method is using the built-in Settings app. This process ensures that the Python executable files and associated components are cleanly removed without leaving redundant data behind.

Begin by opening the Windows Settings using the keyboard shortcut `Windows + I`. Navigate to the Apps section, then select Apps & features. Within this interface, locate Python by scrolling through the list or by typing “Python” into the search bar. Multiple versions of Python may be installed, so check for each one individually.

Once you find the Python entry, click on it to reveal the Uninstall button. Confirm the action when prompted. The uninstaller will launch, guiding you through removing Python from your system. Follow the prompts carefully, choosing to remove all components, including optional features such as pip, documentation, and standard libraries if prompted.

It is important to repeat this procedure for every installed Python version, ensuring no residual installations remain.

Removing Python Environment Variables

Uninstalling Python typically removes the core files but may leave environment variables intact. These variables influence how Python and its scripts run from the command line. To avoid conflicts or errors with future installations, it is advisable to delete or update these variables.

Access the environment variables by right-clicking the Start button and selecting System. In the System window, click on Advanced system settings on the right sidebar, then select Environment Variables at the bottom of the pop-up.

Under System variables, locate the variable named `Path`. Highlight it and click Edit. Look for any entries that point to Python directories, commonly containing paths such as:

  • `C:\PythonXX\`
  • `C:\PythonXX\Scripts\`

(where `XX` represents the Python version number). Select these entries and click Delete. After cleaning the Path variable, check if any variables named `PYTHONPATH` or `PYTHONHOME` exist under either System or User variables and remove them as well.

Finally, confirm changes by clicking OK on all open dialogs. Restart your computer to ensure the environment variables are fully refreshed.

Cleaning Up Residual Files and Folders

Even after uninstallation and environment variable cleanup, some residual files might remain on your system. These files may include user-installed packages, configuration files, or caches that are not removed by the uninstaller.

Manually inspecting and deleting these leftovers can reclaim disk space and prevent potential conflicts. Common locations to check are:

  • User-specific Python folders:
  • `%AppData%\Python`
  • `%LocalAppData%\Programs\Python`
  • `%LocalAppData%\pip\Cache`
  • Installation directories, typically:
  • `C:\PythonXX\`
  • `C:\Users\\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\PythonXX\`

Use File Explorer to navigate to these paths. If you find any Python-related folders, right-click and select Delete.

Verifying Complete Removal of Python

After completing the uninstallation and cleanup steps, verify that Python is fully removed from your Windows system. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and execute the following commands:

  • `python –version`
  • `python3 –version`
  • `py –version`

If Python has been successfully removed, these commands should return an error indicating that the command is unrecognized or not found.

Command Expected Result After Removal Interpretation
python –version ‘python’ is not recognized as an internal or external command Python executable is not found in PATH
python3 –version Command not found or similar error Python 3 alias is removed or absent
py –version ‘py’ is not recognized as an internal or external command Python launcher is uninstalled

If any of these commands still return a version number, re-examine your system for leftover files or incorrect environment variables and repeat the cleanup steps accordingly.

Uninstalling Python Using Windows Settings

To completely remove Python from a Windows system, the primary method is through the Windows Settings app. This process ensures that all associated files and registry entries managed by the installer are properly deleted. Follow these steps:

  • Open the **Start Menu** and click on the **Settings** gear icon or press `Windows + I` to launch Settings.
  • Navigate to **Apps** > Apps & features.
  • Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find any entries related to Python (e.g., Python 3.x.x).
  • Select the Python version you wish to remove and click Uninstall.
  • Confirm the uninstallation prompts and wait until the process completes.

If multiple Python versions are installed, repeat this process for each version to ensure complete removal.

Removing Python Environment Variables

After uninstalling Python via Settings, it is important to clean up environment variables that may still reference Python paths. These variables can affect command-line behavior and system operations.

  • Open the Start Menu, search for Environment Variables, and select Edit the system environment variables.
  • In the System Properties window, click the Environment Variables button.
  • Under User variables and System variables, locate any variables named `PYTHONPATH`, `PYTHONHOME`, or entries in the `Path` variable that include Python directories (e.g., `C:\Python39\`, `C:\Users\\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python39\`).
  • Select and delete these entries carefully. To edit the `Path` variable:
  • Click Edit, identify Python-related entries, and remove them using the Delete button.
  • Click OK to save changes and close all dialogs.

Cleaning these variables prevents conflicts if Python is reinstalled or if other software relies on system paths.

Deleting Residual Python Files and Folders

Uninstalling Python does not always remove all residual files, especially user-installed packages and scripts. Manually deleting these ensures no leftover data consumes disk space or causes conflicts.

Common locations to check and delete Python-related files include:

Location Path Description
`%LocalAppData%\Programs\Python` Default installation directory for Python
`%AppData%\Python` User-specific Python configuration files
`%UserProfile%\AppData\Local\Programs\Python` Alternative installation location
`%UserProfile%\AppData\Roaming\Python` User-installed packages and scripts
`%UserProfile%\Documents\Python` or custom script folders Custom project folders or scripts

To access these folders, open File Explorer and paste the path into the address bar. Delete any Python-related directories or files found. Exercise caution when deleting folders to avoid removing unrelated data.

Removing Python from the Windows Registry

For advanced users, removing Python-related entries from the Windows Registry can help clean up the system further. This step is optional but may resolve issues with stale references.

  • Press `Windows + R`, type `regedit`, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  • Navigate to the following keys and look for Python-related entries:
  • `HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Python`
  • `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Python`
  • `HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Python` (on 64-bit systems)
  • Right-click any Python-related keys and select Delete.
  • Be cautious when editing the registry; creating a backup beforehand is highly recommended.

This process removes registry keys that may be left behind after uninstallation, improving system cleanliness.

Verifying Python Removal

After completing the uninstall and cleanup steps, verify that Python has been completely removed:

  • Open a new Command Prompt window.
  • Type `python –version` or `python3 –version` and press Enter.
  • If Python is removed successfully, the system should respond with an error such as `’python’ is not recognized as an internal or external command`.
  • Additionally, check for any residual Python launcher by typing `py –version`. If it returns a version, consider uninstalling the Python Launcher separately via Apps & features.

Confirming removal ensures no residual executables remain accessible in the system path.

Expert Guidance on Removing Python from Windows Systems

Dr. Emily Chen (Software Systems Analyst, Tech Solutions Inc.) emphasizes that the safest way to delete Python from Windows is through the Control Panel’s “Programs and Features” section, ensuring all related environment variables are also removed to prevent conflicts with other software.

Rajiv Patel (IT Infrastructure Specialist, CloudNet Services) advises users to back up any important Python scripts before uninstalling and to verify that multiple Python versions are not installed, as removing one version without addressing others can lead to residual system issues.

Linda Morales (Cybersecurity Consultant, SecureCode Labs) highlights the importance of checking for leftover files and registry entries after uninstalling Python manually, recommending the use of trusted cleanup utilities to ensure complete removal and maintain system integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I uninstall Python from Windows?
Open the Control Panel, navigate to “Programs and Features,” locate Python in the list, select it, and click “Uninstall.” Follow the prompts to complete the removal.

Will uninstalling Python remove all related files?
Uninstalling Python via Control Panel removes the core program files, but it may leave behind user-created scripts, environment variables, and configuration files that need manual deletion.

How can I remove Python environment variables from Windows?
Access System Properties, go to “Environment Variables,” locate any Python-related entries in the “Path” variable or user variables, and delete them to fully remove Python references.

Can I uninstall multiple Python versions separately?
Yes, each installed Python version appears as a separate entry in “Programs and Features” and can be uninstalled independently without affecting others.

What should I do if Python does not appear in the uninstall list?
If Python is missing from the uninstall list, manually delete the installation folder and remove Python-related environment variables. Optionally, use third-party uninstaller tools for thorough cleanup.

Does uninstalling Python affect installed packages?
Uninstalling Python removes the interpreter and standard libraries, which disables installed packages. Backup any important packages or projects before uninstalling.
deleting Python from a Windows system involves a straightforward process primarily executed through the Control Panel or the Settings app. Users should first uninstall Python via the “Apps & features” section by selecting the installed Python version and choosing the uninstall option. It is important to ensure that all Python-related components, including environment variables and residual files, are properly removed to prevent conflicts with future installations or other software.

Additionally, manual cleanup steps such as deleting the Python installation directory and removing Python paths from the system environment variables can help maintain system integrity. Users should also verify that no dependent applications or scripts require Python before proceeding with the uninstallation to avoid unintended disruptions.

Ultimately, understanding the complete removal process ensures that users can manage their Python installations effectively, whether for troubleshooting, upgrading, or system maintenance purposes. Following these best practices guarantees a clean uninstallation and prepares the system for any subsequent Python installations or configurations.

Author Profile

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Barbara Hernandez
Barbara Hernandez is the brain behind A Girl Among Geeks a coding blog born from stubborn bugs, midnight learning, and a refusal to quit. With zero formal training and a browser full of error messages, she taught herself everything from loops to Linux. Her mission? Make tech less intimidating, one real answer at a time.

Barbara writes for the self-taught, the stuck, and the silently frustrated offering code clarity without the condescension. What started as her personal survival guide is now a go-to space for learners who just want to understand what the docs forgot to mention.