How to change your default browser in Windows 11

Any computer running Windows automatically comes with the Microsoft Edge browser installed. And while Edge does everything an internet browser should do, you might prefer another option, such as Google Chrome or Firefox. Updating the Windows settings on your device lets you switch out Edge for another solution.

Asurion Experts is your go-to for home tech support. Whether you need to install Windows 11 on your device or have questions about browser privacy, count on us for straightforward answers. Here are just a few steps to change the default browser in Windows 11.

How default browser settings differ from Windows 10

Older devices running Windows 10 made it very easy to switch web browsers. You'd simply set your preferred browser as the default, and that was that. It only took a few minutes and was a fairly intuitive process.

However, Microsoft eliminated default browser changes in Windows 11. Now, the process is a little less user-friendly and requires you to assign a default browser for each internet file type. But don't worry — once you understand the steps, it's a simple fix, even if you're not a Windows power user.

Step 1: Open default apps settings

Before making any changes, verify you have downloaded and installed the alternative browser you want to use. You won't be able to change the default browser on Windows 11 if Edge is the only option saved to your device.

Windows 11 stores your browser preferences in the Settings app. Open it and navigate to the list of default apps available on your machine:

1. Click Start.
2. Click Settings > Apps > Default apps.

Step 2: Select your preferred browser

View the list of apps currently installed on your computer. Locate the browser you want to use, such as Google Chrome or Firefox, from the list. You can also type the browser's name in the search bar to quickly bring it up. Click on the browser to open its settings.

Step 3: Change file type and link defaults

You'll see a list of file and link types to choose from, such as .htm, HTTP, and HTTPS. Click each protocol individually. When the default app window opens, select your preferred browser and click Set default.

Some file types may not require a change. For example, if you view PDF files using Adobe Acrobat and it's the default app, you can leave it as is. The main browser-related settings to adjust in the list are:

• .htm
• .html
• .shtml
• .xht
• .xhtml
• HTTP
• HTTPS

These protocols allow your browser to render website documents and pages on your computer.

Step 4: Set your browser as the global default (if available)

Some browsers let you skip manual file type adjustments with a global default setting. If this is an option, you'll see a heading such as Make Firefox your default browser or Make Google Chrome your default browser in the app's menu. Click Set default to make the change and allow Windows to adjust the protocols for you.

Verify your changes

Open your new default browser and navigate to a website of your choice. Click a link to test the browser's behavior. If the new settings are correct, you'll navigate between different webpages within your preferred browser without inadvertently opening Microsoft Edge.

If Microsoft Edge opens while you're testing the new browser, open Settings > Default apps to view the browser's settings again. Verify that file types direct to the preferred browser rather than Microsoft Edge. You can also click the Set default button for the browser if it's available.

Still have issues? Reach out to Asurion for tech help!

FAQ

What happens if I don't see my preferred browser in the list?

A browser won't appear in the list of default apps if it's not downloaded and installed on your device. Navigate to the browser's website to download and install the most recent version on your computer. Restart your device and follow the steps to set it as your default browser.

Will changing my default browser affect installed extensions or bookmarks?

Any data saved on Edge, such as password autofills and bookmarks, won't transfer automatically to the new browser. However, some browser apps let you import saved data from Edge. This option is usually available through the browser's settings menu.

Extensions you've installed with Edge may not be compatible with your new browser. Use the app's extension store to view available options and apply them to your browser.

Can I switch back to Microsoft Edge later if I change my mind?

You can always go back to Microsoft Edge if you decide the new browser isn't a good fit for you. Open Settings > Default apps > Microsoft Edge. Choose Set default to reinstate it as your primary browser.