How to Completely Uninstall DS4Windows (DS4-Win) from Windows

ByNathan Pierce

Have you ever tried uninstalling a program, only to find leftover files still sitting on your computer? I faced this with DS4Windows (DS4-Win). Even after uninstalling, some files, drivers, and settings remained on my system. That’s when I realized that removing DS4Windows completely requires more than a simple uninstall. In this guide, I’ll show you step by step how to fully uninstall it from Windows 10 and Windows 11, making sure no traces are left behind.

How to Uninstall DS4Windows (DS4-Win) Completely from Windows. (Quick Answer)

  1. Close DS4Windows and exit from Task Manager.
  2. Uninstall DS4Windows via Control Panel or Settings.
  3. Remove ViGEmBus, HidHide, and FakerInput drivers in Device Manager.
  4. Delete DS4Windows folders from AppData.
  5. Clean Registry entries.
  6. Restart your PC and confirm removal.

What is DS4Windows (DS4-Win)?

DS4Windows (DS4-Win) is a popular software tool that allows users to connect and configure a DualShock 4 controller or DualSense controller for use on Windows PCs. It works by emulating an Xbox 360 controller, making PlayStation controllers compatible with games and applications.

While it’s useful, some users uninstall it due to:

  • Switching to another tool (like Steam Input or reWASD).
  • Experiencing compatibility issues.
  • Removing unused software to free space.

But here’s the catch: uninstalling DS4Windows isn’t always straightforward. Some files, drivers, and registry entries may remain, which can cause errors or conflicts if you reinstall or use another controller tool.

Why Do You Need to Remove DS4Windows Completely?

When you uninstall software, small leftover files or settings may stay behind. In the case of DS4Windows, this could include:

  • Drivers (ViGEmBus, HidHide, FakerInput) that continue running in the background.
  • Configuration files stored in the AppData folder.
  • Registry entries that may interfere with system performance.

Removing DS4Windows completely helps you:

  1. Free up disk space.
  2. Avoid conflicts when installing new drivers or controller apps.
  3. Fix errors related to duplicate drivers.
  4. Keep your Windows system clean and fast.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Uninstall DS4Windows (DS4-Win) Completely from Windows

Here is the complete method to uninstall DS4Windows from your computer. Follow each step carefully to ensure no traces remain.

Step 1: Close DS4Windows

  1. Right-click on the DS4Windows icon in the taskbar.
  2. Select Exit.
  3. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and ensure DS4Windows is not running in the background.

Step 2: Uninstall DS4Windows from Control Panel or Settings

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps (Windows 11) or Apps & Features (Windows 10).
  3. Scroll down and find DS4Windows.
  4. Click Uninstall.
  5. Follow the prompts to complete removal.

Step 3: Remove Related Drivers

DS4Windows installs additional drivers to make controllers work. To fully uninstall, you need to remove them.

  1. Press Windows Key + X → select Device Manager.
  2. Expand System Devices.
  3. Look for and uninstall these drivers (if present):
    • ViGEmBus Driver
    • HidHide Driver
    • FakerInput Driver
  4. Right-click each → choose Uninstall Device.

⚠️ Important: When uninstalling, check the box that says Delete the driver software for this device.

Step 4: Delete DS4Windows Configuration Files

Even after uninstalling, DS4Windows may leave settings behind.

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type %AppData%, and press Enter.
  2. Find the DS4Windows folder.
  3. Delete it.
  4. Also check %LocalAppData% for any leftover folders.

Step 5: Clean Registry Entries (Optional but Recommended)

⚠️ Be careful when editing the Windows Registry. Only remove entries related to DS4Windows.

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to:
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE
    • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE
  3. Look for DS4Windows, ViGEmBus, or HidHide entries.
  4. Right-click and delete them.

Step 6: Restart Your Computer

After completing the above steps, restart your PC to apply changes. This ensures drivers and registry entries are completely removed.

Step 7: Verify Removal

To confirm that DS4Windows is gone:

  1. Check Installed Apps list again.
  2. Open Device Manager → ensure no DS4Windows-related drivers remain.
  3. Check your AppData folders for leftovers.

Extra Tips for a Clean Uninstall

  • Use a trusted uninstaller tool like Revo Uninstaller to automatically remove leftover files and registry entries.
  • Create a restore point before deleting registry keys.
  • If you plan to reinstall DS4Windows later, download the latest version from the official GitHub repository for stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why can’t I uninstall DS4Windows from my computer?

This usually happens because DS4Windows runs in the background or its drivers are still installed. Closing the app and removing drivers fixes this issue.

2. Do I need to remove ViGEmBus and HidHide drivers separately?

Yes. DS4Windows installs these drivers for controller support. If you don’t remove them, they may stay active and cause conflicts.

3. Will uninstalling DS4Windows affect my PS4 or PS5 controller?

No, uninstalling DS4Windows will not damage your controller. It only removes the software and drivers from your computer.

4. Can I reinstall DS4Windows after uninstalling it?

Yes. After a complete uninstall, you can reinstall the latest version from the official GitHub page without issues.

5. Is using a third-party uninstaller safe for DS4Windows removal?

Yes, as long as you use trusted tools like Revo Uninstaller. They help remove leftover files and registry entries safely.

6. Do I need admin rights to uninstall DS4Windows?

Yes. Since DS4Windows installs system-level drivers, you must have administrator rights to uninstall it completely.

7. What if DS4Windows keeps reinstalling itself after removal?

This may happen if leftover files remain. Double-check AppData folders and registry entries, then restart your PC to prevent auto-reinstallation.

Final Thought

Uninstalling DS4Windows (DS4-Win) from Windows may look simple, but to remove it completely you need to go beyond the normal uninstall process. By deleting the drivers, clearing leftover files, and cleaning the registry, you make sure your system stays clean and error-free. If you ever want to reinstall DS4Windows, starting fresh with no leftovers will give you a smoother experience.

Nathan

Nathan Pierce is a gaming enthusiast and tech writer who focuses on DS4Windows, drivers, and PlayStation controller support. He creates easy guides to help gamers fix issues and enjoy smooth PC gaming.

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