How to uninstall eclipse windows

In this short article, I’d like to share with you how to remove Eclipse IDE completely from Windows operating system. Suppose that you have an installation of Eclipse, which was installed by Eclipse installer program.

Eclipse doesn’t come with an uninstaller so you need to perform the following steps to completely remove Eclipse from your computer:

• Delete Eclipse installation directory
• Delete Eclipse shortcut on desktop at C:\Users\YourUserName\Desktop
• Delete Eclipse shortcut in Start menu at C:\Users\YourUserName\Start Menu\Programs\Eclipse
• Delete the .p2 directory under your user home directory C:\Users\YourUserName\ — The .p2 directory stores cache, settings and temporary files that were created by Eclipse IDE. Depending on how you use Eclipse, this directory may contain large amount of data.

NOTE: If you don’t use Maven any more, you can delete the .m2 directory under your user home. The .m2 directory stores jar files downloaded by Maven (repository) so it usually contains a huge amount of data.

Those are the steps which you need to follow in order to completely uninstall Eclipse IDE from Windows operating system. To see the steps in action, you can watch the following video:

Other Eclipse Tutorials:

• How to import existing projects into Eclipse workspace
• How to create, deploy and run Java Servlet in Eclipse
• How to generate JAR file in Eclipse
• How to create WAR file for Java web application in Eclipse
• How to create Ant build file for existing Java project in Eclipse
• How to generate Javadoc in Eclipse
• How to create Java web project with Maven in Eclipse
• 25 Eclipse Shortcut Keys for Code Editing
• How to Add Copyright License Header for Java Source Files in Eclipse
• How to monitor HTTP requests and responses using TCP/IP Monitor in Eclipse

In this tutorial, we will discuss “How to uninstall Eclipse on Windows 10 completely“. If you will follow all these steps, you will be able to get rid of it for sure.

These steps will remain the same if you are trying to uninstall the legacy version of Eclipse as mentioned below:-

• “How to uninstall Eclipse oxygen on Windows 10”
• “How to uninstall Eclipse ide on Windows 10”
• “How to uninstall Eclipse neon on Windows 10”
• “How to uninstall Eclipse Kepler in Windows 10”
• “How to uninstall Eclipse mars in Windows 10”

Let’s deep dive with a small introduction to Eclipse.

What is Eclipse

Eclipse is an open-source IDE (Integrated development environment) available for cross platforms like Windows, Linux and macOS. The primary use of Eclipse is to develop Java applications but can be used to develop apps in other programming languages also.

Its run-time system is based on Equinox, an implementation of the OSGi core framework specification. Eclipse is flexible and supports different programming plugins like Ruby, Perl, PHP, C, C++, C#, COBOL, D, FORTRAN, GROOVY, JAVASCRIPT and many more to develop applications.

Most of the old versions of Eclipse are scientific names based on moons like Callisto, Europa, Mars, Ganymede, Helios, Juno, Neon, Kepler etc.

The latest version while writing this article is Eclipse IDE 2021‑03.

Why there is no uninstaller of Eclipse Java IDE

Unlike other software, the uninstaller you can see for Eclipse is just a showpiece. if you will click on it.

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It will take you to the “Uninstall or change program Windows“, where Eclipse is not visible in the list as shown in the image.

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As per the discussion in different forums of Eclipse. The installer just automates the task for Downloading, extracting Eclipse files and adding shortcuts. It doesn’t make any entries in the Windows registry (although debatable). That’s why there is no entry in Programs and Features.

So deleting the Eclipse folder manually is enough according to the Eclipse developers. But I don’t completely agree and you will also, once you will read this post further.

Step 1 – Find out the installation location of Eclipse IDE

Generally, the default location of Eclipse installation directory would be “C:\Users\”username“\eclipse\”java-version“

For example, in my case, it’s “C:\Users\Devender\eclipse\java-2021-03\

In case you have provided a custom location during the eclipse installation. Follow this procedure to get your installation directory.

• Right-click on the “Eclipse IDE for Java Developers – 2021-03″ shortcut on the desktop.
• Select “Open file location“

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You will get your Eclipse installation location. For example, I have default installation directory in “C:\Users\Devender\eclipse\java-2021-03″

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Step 2 – Delete the Eclipse installation directory

Once you find the installation location. Now go to your installation directory and delete the “Eclipse” folder.

For example, I will delete the “C:\Users\Devender\eclipse” folder to uninstall Eclipse on Windows 10.

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Step 3 – Delete all Eclipse shortcuts

During the installation, If you have selected the option to create a Desktop and start menu shortcuts for Eclipse. Then go ahead with deletion.

To delete Desktop shortcuts –

• Visit C:\Users\Your-User-Name\Desktop and delete all Eclipse icons.

For instance, I will delete the Eclipse shortcut from the “C:\users\Devender\Desktop” folder.

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To delete Program menu shortcuts –

• Got to “C:\Users\Your-User-Name\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Eclipse” and delete it.

I will delete it from “C:\Users\Devender\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Eclipse” in my case.

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Step 4 – Delete the “.p2” directory

All the cache, settings and temporary files are generally stored under the “.p2” directory. So to remove Eclipse completely from Windows 10. You must delete it.

The location of .p2 folder would be “C:\Users\username“. For example “C:\Users\Devender” in my case.

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Step 5 – Delete executable, cache, setup and installers files

These are the common subfolder under “.eclipse folder“

• org.eclipse.oomph.p2
• org.eclipse.oomph.setup
• org.eclipse.oomph.setup.installer
• org.eclipse.tips.state

To uninstall Eclipse completely in Windows 10. Delete .eclipse folder from “C:\users\username” location as shown in image.

In my case, it exists in “C:\users\Devender“.

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Step 6 – Delete any other related files and folders

Everybody uses Eclipse for a different purpose. So depending upon, how you are using Eclipse IDE, you may have other directories also.

In my case, all these folders exist in the “C:\users\username” directory.

For example:

• “.m2” directory, which contains maven cache and settings.
• “.cache” directory containing tools related cache like Gradle.
• “eclipse-workspace”, where you have saved all your projects.

****Caution note:– Make sure you don’t mess up your other dependent software by abruptly deleting Eclipse dependent files or folders to uninstall Eclipse in Windows 10.

Deleting all these folders will make sure that Eclipse is completely wiped out from your system.

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Step 7 – Delete Eclipse registry entries from Windows

Yes, you heard it right. Although the Eclipse developer claims that the installer doesn’t make any entries in the Microsoft Windows registry, but it does.

If you don’t believe me, check out this screenshot.

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Follow these steps to delete entries from the Windows registry.

* If you don't feel comfortable editing registry, then you can skip these step, but Eclipse will not be cleanup completely from your system in that case.

Step 7.1 – Open registry

• Press “Windows Key + R” on your system. It will open the “run” dialogue box. Just type <regedit> inside it and hit <enter> or OK button.

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Step 7.2- Take backup of registry first

The very first and important step is to take backup of registry to fight with any unwanted mess-up.

• Right-click on “computer”
• Select “export” from drop-down

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• Provide “file name” to save the registry backup and hit save. I have saved it with “Registry-backup” name in “Py” folder.

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A file with “File-name-provided.reg” will create. For example, in my case, it will be “Registry-backup.reg”.

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You can just double click on this file and restore your complete registry. If you will feel, you have corrupted the registry due to some silly mistake.

Although I am sure if you will edit the registry cautiously, you won’t’ land up in this situation.

Step 7.3 – Search and Delete eclipse related files

Now you just need to search for files with the name Eclipse and delete those keys or entries from your windows registry one by one cautiously.

• Press <Ctrl + F> on your keyboard or click Edit and then “Find” from the registry editor menu.
• Type “Eclipse” and click on “Find next“. It will start searching in the registry.
• Right-click on registry value and select Delete from the drop-down list.

For example –

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• Select “Yes” to delete the value.

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• Click Find Next again. Repeat search and delete procedure till all values pertaining to the “Eclipse” search are removed from the whole registry.
• If you get the message “Finished searching through the registry“. Congrats!! you have successfully removed Eclipse from Windows 10.

Video tutorial

Please find this information video on “How to Uninstall Eclipse on Windows 10 completely“. You can also refer to this, in case you have an issue deleting keys from the registry.

Frequently Asked questions

Ending thoughts

In my view, Eclipse developers introduced Eclipse “Installers” to automate installation. I really appreciate that and hope they will also work on the uninstaller in future. Which will help to reduce all the manual efforts involved in uninstalling Eclipse on Windows 10.

Let me know your thoughts via comments.

Uninstalling Eclipse IDE on Windows 10 might seem complicated, but it’s pretty simple. You’ll need to delete the Eclipse folder, remove any workspace folders, and uninstall Java if it was installed specifically for Eclipse. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a clean system in no time!

By following these steps, you will completely remove Eclipse IDE from your Windows 10 system, including its files and any associated Java installations.

Step 1: Delete the Eclipse Folder

Find the folder where Eclipse is installed and delete it.

Usually, Eclipse doesn’t use the usual Windows uninstaller. You’ll find the Eclipse folder wherever you initially extracted it. Open File Explorer, navigate to that folder, and hit delete!

Step 2: Remove Workspace Folder(s)

Locate and delete your Eclipse workspace folders.

Eclipse stores your projects in a workspace folder. By default, this is located in your user directory. Deleting these folders will remove all your Eclipse projects and settings.

Step 3: Uninstall Java (Optional)

Go to Control Panel and uninstall Java if it was installed solely for Eclipse.

If you installed Java just for Eclipse, you might want to remove it too. Head to your Control Panel, navigate to ‘Programs and Features,’ find Java, and click ‘Uninstall.’

Step 4: Delete Eclipse Configuration Files

Search for and delete any remaining Eclipse configuration files.

Some config files might be lurking on your system. Check your user directory and AppData folder for any leftover Eclipse files and delete them.

Step 5: Clear Environment Variables

Remove any Eclipse-related paths from your system environment variables.

Open System Properties, go to Environment Variables, and remove any Eclipse or Java paths. This ensures no residual paths mess up your system.

After completing these steps, Eclipse IDE will be entirely removed from your Windows 10 system. Your computer will be free from all Eclipse files and configurations.

Tips for Uninstalling Eclipse IDE in Windows 10

• Check other drives: If you installed Eclipse on a secondary drive, don’t forget to check there too.
• Backup important projects: Before deleting workspace folders, make sure to backup any important projects.
• Use a file search tool: Tools like Everything can help you find any leftover files quickly.
• Restart your PC: A quick restart can help ensure all changes are properly applied.
• Double-check: Make sure no related files are hiding in places like the Downloads folder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is uninstalling Eclipse IDE safe?

Yes, it’s completely safe. Just ensure that you’re not deleting any important files or projects you may need later.

Do I need to uninstall Java too?

Only if you installed Java solely for Eclipse. If other applications use Java, it’s best to leave it.

Can I reinstall Eclipse later?

Absolutely! You can always download and install Eclipse again if you need it.

What if I have multiple Eclipse installations?

Make sure to delete all Eclipse folders and related workspace folders to clean up your system.

Will uninstalling Eclipse affect other software?

No, Eclipse operates independently. Uninstalling it won’t impact other applications.

Summary of Steps to Uninstall Eclipse IDE in Windows 10

1. Delete the Eclipse folder.
2. Remove workspace folder(s).
3. Uninstall Java (optional).
4. Delete Eclipse configuration files.
5. Clear environment variables.

Conclusion

Uninstalling Eclipse IDE on Windows 10 might seem like a daunting task, but breaking it down into simple steps makes it manageable. By deleting the Eclipse folder, removing workspace directories, uninstalling Java if necessary, and clearing out any config files and environment variables, you ensure a thorough cleanup.

If you’re planning to reinstall Eclipse or switch to another IDE, this guide should leave you with no lingering issues. Always remember to back up important projects before starting, just in case. Happy computing!

For further reading, you might explore guides on how to install new IDEs or optimize your development environment. If you have any questions about specific steps, feel free to reach out!

How to Uninstall Eclipse from Windows 11

Uninstalling software from your computer can sometimes be a straightforward task, but in some cases, it may require more steps to ensure that all components are removed properly. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to uninstall Eclipse from Windows 11. As one of the most popular integrated development environments (IDEs) for Java and other programming languages, Eclipse is commonly used by developers. However, if you have decided to switch to another IDE, upgrade to a different version, or simply no longer need Eclipse, uninstalling it can help free up space and reduce clutter on your machine.

Understanding Eclipse Installation

Eclipse is an open-source IDE that is used extensively for software development. When you install Eclipse, it typically doesn’t have a standard installer like many other Windows applications. Instead, Eclipse can be run from a directory containing its files. This means that when you uninstall Eclipse, you may need to remove the installation folder manually, in addition to any configurations or workspace files associated with it.

Preparation for Uninstallation

Before you begin the uninstallation process, it is important to prepare. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Backup Important Files: If you have projects or settings you might want to keep, back them up. You can copy the entire workspace folder or individual project folders to another location.

2. Check for Dependencies: Some plugins or dependent software might rely on Eclipse. Ensure that these can function without it or are also being uninstalled if no longer needed.

3. Close Eclipse: Ensure that Eclipse is not running during this process. If it is running, save all your work and exit the application.

Steps to Uninstall Eclipse

Method 1: Uninstalling via Windows Settings

One of the simplest methods to uninstall applications on Windows 11 is through the Windows Settings app. However, since Eclipse doesn’t have a traditional installer, this method might not remove everything associated with Eclipse, but it is a good starting point.

1. Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Windows Settings.

2. Navigate to Apps: In the Settings window, click on the «Apps» option from the left-hand sidebar.

3. Apps & Features: In the Apps menu, click on “Apps & Features.” This will display a list of all installed applications on your Windows 11 system.

4. Find Eclipse: In the “Apps & Features” section, scroll through the list or use the search bar to find «Eclipse».

5. Uninstall Eclipse: Click on the Eclipse entry. You may see an «Uninstall» button that you can click. Confirm any prompts that appear.

6. Follow Additional Prompts: Depending on the version and how you installed it, you might need to follow additional prompts to finish the process. Once this is complete, Eclipse should be removed from the list of installed applications.

Method 2: Manual Uninstallation

If you followed the above method and Eclipse still appears to be present—or if you want to ensure every associated file is removed—you may need to perform a manual uninstallation.

1. Locate the Eclipse Installation Directory:

   By default, Eclipse is usually installed in a folder under “C:Userseclipse” or where you unzipped the installation files. Navigate to that directory using File Explorer.

2. Delete the Eclipse Folder:

   Once you’ve located the Eclipse installation directory, simply delete the entire folder. You may need administrative privileges to perform this action.

3. Remove Workspace Folder:

   If you no longer need your workspace, locate the workspace folder (often found in the same parent directory) and delete it. This step ensures that all your projects and settings are removed.

4. Clear Eclipse Configuration Files:

   Eclipse might store user settings in a configuration file located in C:Users\.eclipse. Navigate there and delete any associated files or folders to ensure all settings and preferences are cleared.

Method 3: Using a Third-Party Uninstaller

For those who prefer an easier way to remove all software and associated files, third-party uninstaller applications can be quite useful. These tools can help you find and remove lingering files that may not be removed by Windows’ built-in uninstallation method.

1. Download a Third-Party Uninstaller: Popular options include Revo Uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller, and Geek Uninstaller. Choose one and download the software from its official website.

2. Install the Uninstaller: Follow the installation instructions provided by the application you choose. These applications are generally user-friendly, guiding you through the installation.

3. Launch the Uninstaller: Open the third-party uninstaller tool.

4. Locate Eclipse: Use the search or the list of installed programs to find Eclipse.

5. Uninstall via the Third-Party Tool: Select Eclipse and choose the uninstall option. The application will often perform a deeper cleanup, searching for leftover files and registry entries associated with Eclipse.

6. Confirm Removal: Follow any prompts to complete the process. This should ensure all components related to Eclipse are removed from your system.

Cleaning Up Residual Files

After you have uninstalled Eclipse, there may still be some residual files on your system. Here are additional steps to ensure complete cleanup:

1. Check Program Data Folder:

   Sometimes Eclipse may leave behind configuration files in the program data folder. Open File Explorer, type in %ProgramData%, and check for any Eclipse folder that you can delete.

2. Clean the Registry:

   It is recommended to exercise caution when editing the Windows Registry. If you are comfortable doing this, press Windows + R, type in regedit, and hit Enter. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftware and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWARE to find and delete any entries related to Eclipse. Creating a backup of the registry before you modify it is strongly recommended.

3. Temporary Files:

   You can also clear temporary files by:

   • Pressing Windows + R, typing temp, and pressing Enter.

   • Delete everything in the temp folder.

   • Do the same for %temp%.

Final Checks

Once you have completed the process, run the following checks to ensure that Eclipse has been completely removed:

1. Reboot Your Computer: Restarting your system can help finalize the uninstallation process.

2. Check for Leftover Files: After the reboot, you may want to check the installation directories again and perform a new search for any Eclipse-related files or folders.

3. Verify in Settings: Go back to the settings under Apps & Features to ensure that Eclipse is no longer listed.

4. Disk Cleanup: Consider running the Disk Cleanup tool. This can help you free up additional disk space and clear any lingering temporary files associated with your applications.

Conclusion

Uninstalling Eclipse from Windows 11 may vary in complexity depending on how it was initially installed. By following the methods outlined in this article—using the built-in uninstallation feature, manually removing installation files, or employing a third-party uninstaller—you can ensure that all components associated with Eclipse are removed. Remember to perform backups of essential files before uninstalling, and check for residual files post-uninstallation for a clean removal. Once this is done, you’ll free up space and reduce potential conflicts with other software on your system. Whether you’re upgrading your development environment or transitioning to a different IDE, following these steps will lead you to a successful uninstallation of Eclipse from your Windows 11 machine.