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Windows 11 Doesn't Want You Changing the Default Browser

You're in for a rough time if you don't set a new default browser

By Rob Rich Rob Rich News Reporter College for Creative Studies Rob is a freelance tech reporter with experience writing for a variety of outlets, including IGN, Unwinnable, 148Apps, Gamezebo, Pocket Gamer, Fanbolt, Zam, and more. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on August 18, 2021 02:52PM EDT Fact checked by Rich Scherr Fact checked by Rich Scherr University of Maryland Baltimore County Rich Scherr is a seasoned technology and financial journalist who spent nearly two decades as the editor of Potomac and Bay Area Tech Wire. lifewire's fact checking process Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Software & Apps Mobile Phones Internet & Security Computers & Tablets Smart Life Home Theater & Entertainment Software & Apps Social Media Streaming Gaming Windows 11 makes it much more difficult to change your default web browser, while also outright ignoring the browser default settings you adjusted. Microsoft really wants its Edge web browser to be popular, to the point that it's actively making it a challenge to set other browsers as the default in Windows 11. The Verge explains that, while changing defaults is still possible, if you miss the "Always use this app" toggle when starting up a new browser, you'll have to start digging into menus. Microsoft The process now involves changing individual file or link type defaults one-by-one for the browser you want to use. It's a much longer and more confusing process than Windows 10's Default Apps menu approach. In addition, Windows 11 has been ignoring new default settings entirely. Performing a search in Windows 11 will still open Microsoft Edge, regardless of which browser you have set as your default. A new dedicated widgets area in the new operating system flat-out ignores alternate browser defaults as well. Jetta Productions Inc / Getty Images The Verge also points out how Windows 10 has a habit of prompting users to switch back to Edge every time there's a Windows update, and Windows 11 could do the same. While Microsoft claims to be listening to customer feedback to improve the user experience, these developments imply it's far more interested in pushing its web browser. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Make IE11 the Default Browser in Windows How to Install Google Chrome on Windows 11 How to Change the Default Browser in Thunderbird Windows 11: News, Release Date, and Specs How to Change the Default Browser in Windows How to Open Internet Explorer 11 in Windows 10 How to Fix Incorrect Windows 11 Audio Icons How to Set Chrome as Default Browser on Android How to Fix It When Windows 11 Is Slow How to Remove Junk Files From Windows 11 How to Change the Desktop Background in Windows 11 No Sounds on Windows 11? Here's How to Fix It The 5 Best Windows 11 Features to Know Microsoft Edge vs. Google Chrome What Is Microsoft Internet Explorer? What to Do When Windows 11 Doesn't Support a Processor Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies