Common Wise Program Uninstaller Errors and How to Fix Them

Wise Program Uninstaller is a popular utility designed to remove stubborn software that Windows' built-in tools cannot handle. While generally reliable, users in 2025 frequently encounter specific operational errors ranging from service failures to license activation issues. This guide provides updated troubleshooting steps for the most common errors reported by the community this year.

Common Errors

• Service Error (WiseUninstallerService.exe): The background service fails to start, preventing the program from launching.
• Activation Failed: Pro version users encounter errors when verifying their license key.
• Forced Uninstall Freezes: The application hangs or crashes while attempting to remove stubborn software.
• Context Menu Missing: The "Uninstall with Wise Program Uninstaller" option disappears from the right-click menu.
• Custom Uninstall Failure: The tool cannot locate or remove programs that are not listed in the standard app list.

Fix 1: Service Error (WiseUninstallerService.exe)

This error typically appears as a message stating "Wise Program Uninstaller service is not running" or the program simply fails to open. It indicates the background process required for deep system scanning has failed to initialize.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Navigate to the Services tab and look for WiseUninstallerService.
3. If found, right-click it and select Start. If it is already running, select Restart.
4. If the service is missing, reinstall the application ensuring you right-click the installer and choose Run as administrator.
5. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software, as some aggressive security suites may block this service erroneously.

Fix 2: Activation Failed (Pro Version)

Users upgrading to the Pro version for advanced residual file cleaning may see an "Activation Failed" or "Invalid License Key" message. This is often due to formatting errors or network blocking.

1. Copy and paste your license key directly to avoid typo errors (O vs 0, I vs 1).
2. Ensure there are no empty spaces before or after the key in the input field.
3. Disable any active VPN or proxy connections that might trigger the license server's fraud protection.
4. Add WiseProgramUninstaller.exe to the exception list of your Windows Firewall.
5. If the error persists, check if your license is for a different year's version; 2025 keys may not work on older builds.

Fix 3: Forced Uninstall Freezes

The "Forced Uninstall" feature is designed for stubborn apps, but it can sometimes freeze the entire system if it encounters locked files it cannot delete.

1. Do not force close Wise Program Uninstaller immediately; give it at least 5-10 minutes as deep scanning takes time.
2. If it remains stuck, boot Windows into Safe Mode (Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup).
3. Launch Wise Program Uninstaller in Safe Mode and attempt the Forced Uninstall again.
4. Alternatively, ensure the target program is not running in the background. Check the system tray and Task Manager to kill all related processes before starting the uninstall.

Fix 4: Context Menu Missing

One of the tool's best features is the ability to right-click any shortcut to uninstall it. If this option disappears, it is usually a registry or settings glitch.

1. Open Wise Program Uninstaller and click the Menu icon (three lines) in the top right.
2. Select Settings.
3. Locate the option "Add 'Uninstall with Wise Program Uninstaller' to context menu".
4. Uncheck the box, click OK, then go back and check it again to force a registry refresh.
5. If this fails, reinstalling the software is the fastest way to restore registry keys without manual editing.

Fix 5: Custom Uninstall Failure

When you try to remove a program that isn't listed in the main window using "Custom Uninstall," the tool might fail if the path is incorrect or permissions are denied.

1. Ensure you are selecting the main executable (.exe) or the root installation folder of the unwanted program.
2. Right-click Wise Program Uninstaller and select Run as administrator to ensure it has permission to delete system-protected folders.
3. If the folder is already partially deleted, creating a dummy folder with the same name in the same location can sometimes trick the tool into initiating the residual file scan.
4. Use the "Software Health" scan (if available in your version) to identify broken registry links associated with the unlisted program.

Prevention Tips

• Always Run as Admin: Uninstallation tools need high-level privileges to modify the registry and delete system files.
• Close Apps First: Never try to force uninstall a program that is currently running or minimized in the system tray.
• Regular Updates: Keep Wise Program Uninstaller updated to the latest 2025 build to ensure compatibility with recent Windows 11 updates.
• Create Restore Points: Before performing a "Forced Uninstall," always create a System Restore point in case critical system files are accidentally removed.

When to Contact Support

If you have tried the steps above and still face issues, you may need professional assistance. Contact support if you encounter system instability (blue screens) immediately after an uninstallation, or if your Pro license key is persistently rejected despite being valid. Before contacting them, prepare your Order Reference Number and a screenshot of the specific error code or message.