I have an ASUS VivoBook that came with Microsoft 365, so I already have the Microsoft apps I need. The problem is that WPS Office keeps appearing and reinstalling without my permission. It sometimes returns on the same day after I uninstall it, and it takes over opening documents instead of Microsoft Word or the other Office apps. What could be causing this, and how can I remove it permanently and prevent it from coming back?
3 Answers
First check Windows' installed apps and remove every WPS-related entry, not just the main shortcut. It may also be worth checking startup apps, scheduled tasks, and recently installed programs for something that is reinstalling it. A reputable guide for completely removing WPS can help identify leftover components.
Even after uninstalling WPS, Windows may still have it associated with your documents. Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps, search for file types such as .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx, and set them to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint instead. You can also right-click a document, choose Open with, select the Microsoft app, and enable the option to always use it.
It helps to clarify that WPS here means WPS Office, the Microsoft Office alternative, rather than Wi-Fi Protected Setup. Check whether it came bundled with another installer or utility on the laptop, because removing only the visible WPS app may leave behind the program that keeps reinstalling it.
Changing the defaults will stop WPS from opening files, but it won't explain why the program keeps returning. You should investigate the reinstall source separately.