Setting Google Chrome as your default browser on Windows 11 isn’t too hard, but it can be a bit fiddly if you’re not used to the new layout. First up, if Chrome isn’t installed, it won’t show in the list—so make sure you download and install it first. Once it’s there, the rest is pretty straightforward, but a bit sneaky if you don’t know where to look.
You’ll need to open Settings (Start Button > Settings) or hit Windows + I. From there, click on Apps. Scroll down or search for Default Apps. This is where Windows decides what opens what. Find Google Chrome in the list, click on it, and then you’ll see options to set defaults for file types like .htm, .html, and links like HTTP and HTTPS. Sometimes Windows makes you set each one separately, so don’t stress if it’s not just a one-click thing.
Click on Google Chrome, then pick Set default. If it’s not working or some options are missing, try closing Settings and reopening it. *On some PCs*, this step can be a bit weird, and Windows might not register the change straight away. Restarting your machine can help, especially if you’ve just installed or updated Chrome.
Once it’s all sorted, clicking a link should open in Chrome automatically. No need to right-click and select “Open in Chrome” every time. Just a heads up: in Windows 11, it’s a bit more manual compared to older versions, but once you get the hang of it, it’s way more flexible.
If you want to double-check, try clicking a link in a document or an email. If it opens in Chrome, you’re all set. If it still opens in Edge, go through the steps again, or you might need to set defaults for specific protocols and file types. Clearing your browser cache or resetting default app preferences can also help if it’s being stubborn.
And one last tip: if Chrome doesn’t show up immediately after installing, try restarting your PC or even reinstalling Chrome. Sometimes Windows can be a bit slow to recognise new software, but we’ve all been there!
Tips for Making Chrome Your Default in Windows 11
- Make sure Chrome is installed—no point if it’s not there to choose from.
- Keep Chrome up to date via Menu > Help > About Google Chrome—it’s good for security and features.
- In the Default Apps menu, set
HTTPandHTTPSto Chrome explicitly, not just web pages—Windows sometimes defaults to other browsers for certain protocols. - If links still open in Edge, revisit Default Apps and manually assign Chrome to each web protocol and file extension.
- A quick reboot after changing defaults can help everything stick.
FAQs
Can I make Chrome my default if I haven’t installed it yet?
Nah, you need Chrome installed first. Deadset obvious, but worth a mention.
What if Chrome doesn’t show up in the list of apps?
Make sure it’s installed properly. If it’s missing, try uninstalling and reinstalling—Windows doesn’t always pick it up straight away.
How do I check if Chrome’s actually my default?
Click any link in a doc or email. If it opens in Chrome, sweet as. If not, go back into Default Apps and make sure the protocols are set right.
Can I switch back later?
Too easy. Just head to Default Apps and change it to whichever browser you prefer.
Will changing the default mess with bookmarks or history?
Nah, it just changes which app opens links. Your bookmarks, history, and other settings in your other browsers stay put, no worries.
Summary
- Make sure Chrome is installed.
- Open Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
- Find Chrome and set its defaults for web protocols.
- Test clicking links to see if it opens in Chrome.
Cheers and Wrap-up
Hopefully, this helps you dodge all the fiddling around. Windows 11’s default app setup can be a bit clunky, but once you get used to it, Chrome will open your links nice and quick. No more hassles or surprise prompts. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy speedy browsing, extensions, and all that good stuff. If it doesn’t work first go, no worries—just run through the steps again. You’ve got this, mate!