Uninstall Hidden & Stubborn Software on Windows 10 (2023 Updated)

To uninstall hidden and stubborn software on Windows 10, you can use the following methods:

1. Use the Programs and Features Tool: This tool is one of the best and easiest ways to find and remove almost any installed program on your device. To access the Programs and Features window, you can search for "control panel" in the search box at the bottom left of the desktop or enter "Control Panel" in search on the taskbar.

2. Uninstall the Program From the Start Menu: You can also uninstall a program from the Start menu. To do this, click on the Start button and locate the program you want to uninstall. Right-click on it and select Uninstall.

3. Use the Windows Search Bar: You can use the Windows Search bar to find and uninstall programs. Simply type in "uninstall" in the search bar and select "Add or remove programs" from the list of results. From there, you can select the program you want to uninstall.

4. Use the Default Program Uninstaller: Most programs come with their own uninstaller. You can access this by going to Control Panel - Programs - Programs and Features.

5. Use the Microsoft Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter: This tool is designed to help you fix issues that prevent programs from being installed or removed.

6. Use the Command Prompt: You can use Command Prompt to uninstall programs as well. Simply open Command Prompt as an administrator and type in "wmic" followed by "product get name" to get a list of installed programs. Then type in "product where name=\"program name\" call uninstall" to uninstall a specific program.

7. Delete the Program’s Registry Keys: If all else fails, you can try deleting a program's registry keys. However, this method is not recommended for novice users as it can cause serious problems if done incorrectly.

i. Here is a bat script that can forcefully uninstall an application on Windows using the msiexec command:

```bat
@echo off

rem Replace APP_NAME with the application name to uninstall

set APP_NAME=ProblematicApp

echo Force uninstalling %APP_NAME%

rem Finds the product code for the installed application

echo %CODE% | findstr /r "[A-Z0-9]\{3\}-[A-Z0-9]\{5\}-[A-Z0-9]\{5\}-[A-Z0-9]\{5\}-[A-Z0-9]\{5\}"

rem Uninstalls the application forcefully using the product code
msiexec /x %CODE% /qn /norestart

echo %APP_NAME% uninstalled successfully!

pause
```

To use:

1. Replace APP_NAME with the application name
2. Run the .bat file as administrator
3. Confirm any prompts to uninstall

This will force remove the application, overriding any locks or hangs. Make sure to backup data first!

ii. Adware can be automatically downloaded and installed in a number of ways, including:

* **Clicking on a malicious link:** When you click on a malicious link, it can download and install adware on your computer without your knowledge.
* **Opening an infected attachment:** If you open an infected attachment, it can download and install adware on your computer.
* **Installing a freeware or shareware program:** Some freeware and shareware programs come bundled with adware. When you install these programs, the adware may also be installed without your knowledge.
* **Using a public Wi-Fi network:** If you use a public Wi-Fi network, it is possible that the network is infected with adware. When you connect to the network, the adware may be downloaded and installed on your computer.
* **Exploiting a security vulnerability:** If there is a security vulnerability on your computer, adware can exploit the vulnerability to download and install itself.

To protect yourself from adware, you should:

* **Be careful about clicking on links:** If you are not sure whether a link is safe, do not click on it.
* **Scan your emails for viruses:** Before you open any email attachment, scan it for viruses using a reputable antivirus program.
* **Only install freeware or shareware programs from trusted sources:** When you install a freeware or shareware program, read the terms and conditions carefully to make sure that you are not installing any adware.
* **Use a firewall and antivirus program:** A firewall can help to protect your computer from unauthorized access, and an antivirus program can help to detect and remove viruses and other malware.
* **Keep your operating system and software up to date:** Software updates often include security patches that can help to protect your computer from vulnerabilities.