Switching from Edge to Chrome on Windows 11
Changing your default browser from Microsoft Edge to Google Chrome might seem like a bit of a hassle, but it’s actually pretty simple. Just a matter of digging into your Settings and making the change. Once you’re done, clicking any link will open Chrome instead of Edge. Easy as pie, right?
There are a few small quirks — like making sure Chrome is installed first — which might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often that trips people up.
Accessing Windows Settings
Start by clicking the Start button. You know, the Windows icon in the corner. From the menu, click the gear icon to open Settings. If you prefer keyboard shortcuts, just hit Windows + I and you’re there.
Alternatively, you can quickly open the Settings by typing start ms-settings: into the Run dialog (Windows + R) — sometimes that’s faster than navigating through menus.
Finding the Apps Section
Once in Settings, go to the Apps category. This is where all the app-related magic happens. Click on Default apps.
Quick tip: if you don’t want to scroll through pages, use the search bar at the top. Just type in Default apps and it’ll come up instantly.
Setting Chrome as Default
In the Default apps menu, you can set defaults for everything from file types to URL protocols. Use the search box to find Google Chrome. Click on it, then you’ll see a list of protocols and file types. You can set Chrome as the default for each of them.
It pays to be thorough — for example, make sure to set Chrome for HTTP and HTTPS to cover all bases.
Changing Your Default Browser
Locate your existing browser (probably Microsoft Edge), then click on it and select Google Chrome from the list.
A prompt should pop up asking you to set Chrome as the default. Just confirm, and you’re all set. If you want to be extra careful, you can assign Chrome to handle HTTP and HTTPS directly.
Final Steps
You might see a warning asking if you really want to switch. Just follow the prompts to confirm.
Sometimes Windows shows a dialogue to pick your default browser — make sure Chrome is selected there. And don’t worry, Edge isn’t going anywhere; it stays on your PC if you need it later.
Tips for Switching to Chrome on Windows 11
- Make sure Chrome is installed before changing default settings. Download it from here. It saves hassles later on.
- If you decide to switch back to Edge later, just follow the same steps. It’s a simple toggle once you know how.
- Keep Chrome up to date by opening it, clicking the three-dot menu (More), then selecting Help > About Google Chrome. Regular updates keep things secure.
- personalise Chrome by tweaking its appearance, adding extensions, and adjusting settings under Settings > Appearance.
- Pin Chrome to your taskbar for quick access—right-click its icon in the Start menu or on your desktop and choose Pin to taskbar.
Common Questions About Changing Your Default Browser
Why should I switch browsers?
Choosing a browser that suits you can make surfing the web faster, safer, and more enjoyable. From quicker loads to better privacy controls, a good browser can upgrade your online experience.
Is it safe to change browsers?
Absolutely — Windows is designed for this. Just make sure you’re downloading Chrome from trusted sources, and it’s all good.
Do I have to get rid of Edge?
No need to uninstall Edge. It’ll stay on your PC in case you want to use it for certain sites or nostalgia.
Can I run multiple browsers?
Definitely! Windows plays nicely with more than one. You can hop between them depending on what you’re doing — handy if you like options.
What about my bookmarks?
Switching defaults won’t delete your Chrome bookmarks or browsing history. If you’re coming from Edge, you might want to import bookmarks into Chrome to keep everything organised. Just head to Settings > Import bookmarks and settings in Chrome.
Quick Steps to Make the Switch
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Apps.
- Select Default apps.
- Find and set Google Chrome as the default.
- Confirm your selection, and you’re done.
Final Thoughts
Once you complete these steps, Chrome becomes the go-to browser for all your links on Windows 11. It’s a quick tweak that can really customise your browsing to better suit your speed, security, or personal style. And don’t worry — Edge isn’t deleted; it’s still there if you ever want to switch back.
Changing your browser settings might seem tiny, but it can make a real difference to your online experience. Slight changes can improve speed, security, or add new features that fit your way of browsing. Not all browsers are created equal — some handle specific tasks better than others, so it pays to pick what suits you best.
If you’re someone who keeps dozens of tabs open or runs into sites that don’t load right, switching browsers can help. Sometimes, clearing cached data or tweaking browser settings makes a big difference too.
After experimenting with different browsers, many find that adjusting Chrome or Firefox settings can improve performance. For some, clearing cache first helps smooth the process. There’s no perfect button — but a few simple tweaks can save you headaches later. Once you get the hang of it, browsing is a whole lot more enjoyable.
And if things still feel a bit sluggish after the switch, consider installing extensions that can boost performance or organisation. Little tools like that can make your online life feel less chaotic and more manageable.