PDF ReDirect is a free software tool that allows users to create, merge, and convert PDF documents directly from any application that supports printing. It acts as a virtual printer driver, enabling you to “print” files to PDF format without the need for expensive commercial software like Adobe Acrobat.
Despite being lightweight and useful, some users may decide to uninstall PDF ReDirect due to system cleanup, preference for alternative PDF tools (such as Microsoft Print to PDF or CutePDF), or because of compatibility issues on newer operating systems.
This guide presents multiple methods to completely remove PDF ReDirect from your Windows computer — including standard Windows uninstallation tools, manual file and registry cleanup, and finally, using Perfect Uninstaller, a third-party utility designed for deep and secure removal.
We will also explore key differences between 32-bit and 64-bit systems, and variations between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with each method including step-by-step instructions, important notes, drawbacks, and success rate estimates.
Finally, we conclude with a professional perspective to help you choose the most effective and secure approach based on your technical expertise and system configuration.
Method 1: Uninstall via Settings App (Windows 10 / Windows 11)
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Press
Win + Ito open the Settings app.
- Navigate to Apps > Installed Apps
- On Windows 10, go to Apps > Apps & features.
- On Windows 11, click directly on Installed apps under the Apps section.
- Search for PDF ReDirect
- Use the search bar at the top and type “PDF ReDirect” or similar name variation.
- Uninstall the Application
- Click on PDF ReDirect and select Uninstall.
- Confirm when prompted and wait for the process to complete.
Notes:
- This method works only if PDF ReDirect was installed through an official installer that registers itself in the system.
- On 64-bit systems, ensure you’re removing the correct version; otherwise, you might be uninstalling a leftover entry or incompatible variant.
- The interface differs slightly between Windows 10 and Windows 11, but the core functionality remains the same.
Success Rate:
- ~70–75% successful removal of the main program files.
Drawbacks:
- Does not remove residual configuration files, cached logs, or registry entries unless manually deleted.
- May leave behind user-specific settings or startup items.
- Not effective for portable versions or manually copied installations.
Method 2: Using Control Panel (Legacy Interface)
The Control Panel remains a reliable option for managing installed applications, especially for advanced users or those who prefer a more traditional interface.
Steps:
- Open Control Panel
- Type “Control Panel” in the Start menu and open it.
- Go to Programs > Uninstall a Program
- Locate PDF ReDirect
- Scroll through the list and find PDF ReDirect or similar name variation.
- Uninstall the Application
- Click Uninstall and follow the prompts to complete the process.
Notes:
- Compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
- Works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, though layout may differ slightly.
Success Rate:
- ~72–78% successful removal of the main program files.
Drawbacks:
- May not fully clean up user profiles, shared system folders, or plugin directories.
- Less intuitive than the modern Settings interface.
- Still leaves behind some configuration and cache files.
Method 3: Manual File and Registry Cleanup (Post-Uninstall)
After uninstalling via any of the above methods, perform a manual cleanup to ensure all traces of PDF ReDirect are removed from your system.
Steps:
- Delete Installation Folder
- Navigate to:
C:\Program Files\PDF ReDirect C:\Program Files (x86)\PDF ReDirect
(Note: If installed manually or in a custom path, locate the folder accordingly.)
- Remove User Data Folders
- Go to:
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\PDF ReDirect C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\PDF ReDirect
- Clear Temp Files
- Delete:
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Temp\PDFRedirect*
- Clean Registry Entries
- Open Registry Editor (
regedit) as admin. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\PDF ReDirect HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\PDF ReDirect
For 64-bit systems, also check:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\PDF ReDirect - Delete these keys if they exist.
- ⚠️ Warning: Always back up the registry before making changes.
Notes:
- Requires technical knowledge.
- Works on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
- Particularly useful for removing hidden configurations and logs.
Success Rate:
- ~90–95% complete removal if executed properly.
Drawbacks:
- Time-consuming and error-prone.
- Risk of accidental deletion of unrelated registry entries.
- Not recommended for novice users.
Method 4: Using Perfect Uninstaller (Third-Party Tool)
Perfect Uninstaller is a powerful utility designed to perform deep and comprehensive software removal, including leftover files, registry entries, and cached data that standard uninstallers often miss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Download Perfect Uninstaller
- Visit the official website of Perfect Uninstaller (ensure it’s a trusted source).
- Download the correct version based on your system:
- 32-bit systems: Install 32-bit version.
- 64-bit systems: Install 64-bit version for full compatibility.
Step 2: Install and Launch the Software
- Run the installer and follow the setup instructions.
- Launch the application after installation.
Step 3: Locate PDF ReDirect
- In the main interface, scroll through the list of installed programs.
- Find “PDF ReDirect” and click on it.
Step 4: Initiate Uninstallation
- Click the Uninstall button.
- The tool will begin removing PDF ReDirect, displaying real-time progress.
- During uninstallation, it will remove:
- Main executable and support files
- Registry entries
- Startup items
- User-specific settings and logs
Step 5: Perform Deep Cleanup
- After uninstalling, use the Scan for Leftovers feature.
- Let the tool scan for any remaining files or registry fragments.
- Select all found items and click Delete to ensure a clean system.
Notes:
- Perfect Uninstaller offers automated and comprehensive removal.
- Works seamlessly on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- Ideal for users who want to avoid manual file hunting and registry editing.
Success Rate:
- ~98–100% complete removal, depending on database updates and software version.
Drawbacks:
- Requires downloading third-party software, which may raise security concerns.
- Some versions may include bundled software or ads.
- Paid versions often offer better support and functionality.
Conclusion
PDF ReDirect is a practical and free PDF creation tool that many users rely on for basic document conversion needs. However, when it’s no longer needed, performing a complete and clean uninstallation becomes essential to maintaining system performance, disk space, and privacy.
From our analysis, standard Windows tools like the Settings app and Control Panel provide basic uninstallation, but they typically fail to remove all related files and registry entries. These methods are suitable for quick removal but leave behind unnecessary clutter.
For more thorough results, manual file and registry cleanup can significantly increase the completeness of the uninstallation. However, this method is time-consuming and carries risks, particularly for inexperienced users.
Ultimately, Perfect Uninstaller stands out as the most efficient and safest method for removing PDF ReDirect and all its associated components. With a success rate of 98–100%, it ensures that your system remains clean, optimized, and free from digital residue.
As a professional recommendation, always verify the authenticity of third-party tools before installation. Consider investing in a premium version of Perfect Uninstaller for enhanced support, regular updates, and protection against bundled software.
In summary, while built-in Windows tools provide partial solutions, Perfect Uninstaller remains the superior choice for achieving a secure and thorough uninstallation of PDF ReDirect.