DS4Windows is a popular program that allows you to use your DualShock 4 PlayStation controller on your PC. But, what happens when you want to remove it? Uninstalling DS4Windows isn't as simple as just dragging it to the recycle bin. This guide will walk you through the process completely, ensuring a clean uninstall and preventing any lingering issues.
Understanding the DS4Windows Installation
Before we delve into the uninstallation, understanding how DS4Windows installs is crucial. It doesn't simply place files in a single folder; it installs drivers and makes registry entries. This means a simple deletion won't suffice for a complete removal.
Steps to Uninstall DS4Windows Completely
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to properly uninstall DS4Windows from your system:
1. Close DS4Windows: The first step is to ensure DS4Windows is completely closed. Right-click on the DS4Windows icon in your system tray (bottom-right corner of your screen) and select "Exit".
2. Uninstall using the built-in uninstaller (Recommended): DS4Windows includes its own uninstaller. Locate the DS4Windows installation folder (typically found in C:\Program Files (x86)\DS4Windows or wherever you installed it). Within that folder, you'll find an executable file named unins000.exe (or similar, depending on the version). Run this executable. This uninstaller will attempt to remove all associated files and registry entries.
3. Manually Remove Leftover Files (Optional but Recommended): Even after using the uninstaller, some residual files might remain. It's good practice to manually check these locations:
- The DS4Windows installation directory: Delete the folder containing DS4Windows if the uninstaller didn't remove it completely.
- The
%appdata%folder: This folder usually contains user-specific application data. Navigate to%appdata%\DS4Windowsand delete its contents. You can access this by typing%appdata%in the Windows search bar. - The
%localappdata%folder: Similar to%appdata%, check for DS4Windows related files here. Navigate to%localappdata%\DS4Windowsand delete the folder's contents.
4. Check Device Manager: DS4Windows installs drivers. Go to your Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar), look for any entries related to "DS4" or "SCP Server," and uninstall them. This ensures that no driver conflicts remain. You might need to restart your computer after this step.
5. Restart Your Computer: After completing all the steps above, restarting your PC is a good practice to ensure all changes are applied correctly and to refresh the system.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues during the uninstallation, such as errors during the uninstaller execution or persistent driver entries, you may consider using a third-party uninstaller tool designed to remove stubborn programs completely. Remember to research reputable and safe uninstaller software before using one.
Preventing Future Issues
To avoid similar problems during future software installations or uninstalls:
- Always use the official uninstaller: whenever possible, avoid manually deleting files.
- Regularly clean your system: This prevents the accumulation of unnecessary files and improves overall performance.
By following these steps, you'll ensure a clean uninstall of DS4Windows and avoid any potential complications with other applications or your system's stability. Remember to always back up your important data before making significant changes to your system.
