How to remove an app shortcut from the Start Menu App List that has been leftover from an uninstall?

Luke Kernan 0 Reputation points
2025-12-14T01:37:13.4466667+00:00

I have two instances of the Instagram Application in my Start Menu App list. I cannot find entries for them in the Windows common program folder in the C drive. They were uninstalled from the program list in Control Panel. How can I reset the app list and remove apps from the Start Menu?

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Desktop, Start, and personalization | Start Menu

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  1. Paulo GM 72,650 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-15T00:33:32.31+00:00

    If that’s the case, it’s likely a glitch in the Start menu. Since the OS is no longer supported, there’s no longer an option to submit feedback. The only remaining options may be to create a new user account or reinstall the system if you want to continue using Windows 10. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth going through all that just to remove a shortcut.

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  2. Paulo GM 72,650 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-14T23:26:03.82+00:00

    Since we've already exhausted possible methods to completely remove it, the only method I can think of is to access the WindowsApps folder and manually delete the Instagram folder. See if this article helps.

    Disclaimer: This is a non-Microsoft site. The information seems reliable, but be careful with ads. Research any product before downloading.

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  3. Paulo GM 72,650 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-14T06:06:26.2366667+00:00

    It won’t show up unless it’s installed, which is why I suggested installing it first and then using the PowerShell method. I believe the app only has a single installation folder under WindowsApps. The normal uninstall process does not remove that folder which might contain the older versions, but as far as I know, using PowerShell removes it completely, since this is also the method used to uninstall built-in system apps.

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