Microsoft Edge comes built into Windows as the default web browser. While it works well for many people, you might want to stop it from running for several reasons- maybe it uses too much memory, you prefer another browser, or you don’t like automatic updates.
In this guide, you’ll find clear instructions to disable Edge on your Windows system. We’ll show you multiple methods that work in 2025, from basic settings changes to more advanced options.
We’ve tested each method to make sure they’re effective and safe for your computer. No technical background needed- just follow our simple steps.
If you’re tired of Edge opening by itself or want to use a different browser without Edge running in the background, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started with the solutions.
Disable Microsoft Edge in 10 Easy Steps
I’ll walk you through 10 ways to stop Microsoft Edge from running on your computer. These methods work in 2025, and I’ve made the steps as clear as possible.
Ready to take back control of your browsing experience? Let’s get started!
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Change Your Default Browser
Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps on your Windows computer. Look through the list to find your preferred browser, like Chrome, Firefox, or Brave. Click on it and choose “Set as default” from the options. While this doesn’t completely remove Edge from your system, it ensures that web links open in your chosen browser instead. This simple change stops Edge from automatically opening when you click links.
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Rename Edge Folder (Quick Temporary Fix)
Press the Windows key and R together to open the Run dialog box. Type “C:\Windows\SystemApps” and press Enter. Scroll through the folder list until you find “Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe”. Right-click on this folder and select Rename. Add “old” to the end of the name. This tricks Windows into thinking Edge isn’t available. Keep in mind, this is temporary, as updates might fix this.
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Disable Edge from Task Manager Start
Press the Windows key and X together, then select Task Manager from the menu that appears. Click on the Startup tab at the top of the Task Manager window. Look through the list of programs until you find Microsoft Edge. Right-click on it and select “Disable” from the menu. This prevents Edge from automatically starting when you turn on your computer, saving system resources and speeding up boot time.
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Stop Edge from Running in the Background
Open Microsoft Edge first. Click the three dots in the top-right corner to access Settings. Scroll down and click on “System and Performance” in the left menu. Find the option that says “Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed” and turn it off by clicking the toggle switch. This stops Edge from using memory and resources when you’re not actively using it, making your computer run smoother.
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Block Edge in Windows Firewall
Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application. Find the file named msedge.exe. Then open Windows Firewall by searching for it in the Start menu. Go to Advanced settings and create a new outbound rule that blocks this file. Do the same for Edge Updater at C:\Program Files (x86)\ Microsoft\EdgeUpdate\MicrosoftEdgeUpdate.exe.exe
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Use the Edge Redirect Tool
Search online for the MSEdgeRedirect.exe tool and download it from a trusted source. Once installed, open the program and go to its settings. Select “Active Mode” from the options available. Then configure which browser you want to use instead of Edge. This clever tool intercepts attempts by Windows to open Edge and redirects them to your preferred browser automatically.
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Turn Off Restartable Apps at Sign-in
Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I. Click on Accounts, then select Sign-in options from the left menu. Scroll down until you find “Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign in” and switch it to Off. This setting stops Windows from remembering and reopening Edge after you restart your computer, giving you a clean start each time you boot up.
- Use Registry Editor (Advanced).
Type “regedit” in the search bar and open Registry Editor. Navigate through the folders to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft. Right-click on Microsoft and create a new key named “MicrosoftEdge”. Inside this new key, right-click in the space and create a new DWORD value. Name it “PreventAccessToMicrosoftEdge” and set its value to 1. This tells Windows at a system level to prevent access to Edge.
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Install Edge Blocker Utility.
Search online for a trusted Edge Blocker tool and download it to your computer. Once downloaded, run the application as an administrator. Follow the on-screen instructions, which typically involve clicking a “Block Edge” button. These specialized tools are designed specifically to prevent Edge from running on your system and often work better than manual methods.
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Use Chris Titus Toolbox (PowerShell Method).
Right-click on the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin). In the blue PowerShell window, type: iwr -useb https://christitus.com/win | iex and press Enter. This downloads and runs the Chris Titus Windows Toolbox. When the program opens, go to the TWEAKS tab. Find and select the “Uninstall Edge” option, then click the “RUN TWEAKS” button. This automated script handles the complex process of removing Edge components.
Important Note: Windows updates might reinstall Edge. Some Windows functions need Edge to work properly, so complete removal could affect your system.
I recommend trying the first method, then the third and fourth. These are safer options that still get the job done for most people.
Important Considerations and Limitations
Before you disable Microsoft Edge completely, I want to share some important things to think about. These points will help you avoid problems and make smart choices about your browser setup.
Windows Updates Can Bring Edge Back. Microsoft often reinstalls Edge during regular Windows updates. You might wake up one day to find Edge running again after you thought you removed it. This isn’t a mistake-it’s by design. If this happens, you’ll need to repeat your chosen disabling method. Some users find they need to disable Edge after major Windows updates.
Some Windows Features Need Edge. Edge isn’t just a browser-it’s connected to other parts of Windows. If you remove it completely, these functions might stop working properly:
- Windows search results that show web content
- The “News and interests” taskbar widget
- Microsoft Store apps that display web content
- Windows Help system links
How to Get Edge Back If You Need I.t Changed your mind? No problem. Here’s how to restore Edge:
- Open Microsoft Store
- Search for “Microsoft Edge”
- Click “Get” or “Install.”
For registry or folder rename methods, simply undo those specific changes. If you renamed the Edge folder, change it back to the original name.
Great Alternative Browsers If you’re leaving Edge behind, consider these solid options:
- Firefox – Strong privacy features and not based on Chromium
- Chrome – Fast and works with most websites
- Brave – Built-in ad blocking and privacy tools
- Opera – Includes a free VPN and unique features
What matters most is finding a browser that fits how you use the web.
I recommend keeping at least one browser installed at all times. This gives you a backup if something goes wrong with your main browser.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When you try to disable Microsoft Edge, you might run into a few bumps along the way. I’ve collected solutions to the most common problems people face during this process.
Dealing with Antivirus False Positives
Your antivirus might flag Edge blocking tools as harmful. This happens because these tools change system files. If your antivirus blocks a tool:
- Add the tool to your antivirus exceptions list
- Temporarily turn off your antivirus while making changes
- Try a different disabling method that doesn’t use third-party tools
Not all warnings are false alarms! Only download Edge blocking tools from trusted sources with good reviews.
Handling Windows Update Reinstallations
Windows updates often bring Edge back to life. Here’s how to stop this cycle:
- Use Group Policy Editor (for Windows Pro/Enterprise) to disable automatic app installations
- Schedule a weekly task to run your preferred disabling method
- Consider using multiple disabling methods together for a stronger effect
Some users create a simple batch file that disables Edge and sets it to run at startup. This way, even if Windows reinstalls Edge, it gets disabled again automatically.
What to Do If Windows Search Functionality Breaks
Removing Edge can sometimes affect Windows Search. If your search stops working properly:
- Restore Edge using the Microsoft Store
- Use a less aggressive disabling method (like changing defaults instead of removing files)
- Try the Windows Search troubleshooter by typing “troubleshoot” in Settings
Simple fix: Just reinstall Edge, then use the “Change default browser” method instead of trying to remove Edge completely.
Resolving Web Link Opening Problems
After disabling Edge, you might find that clicking links in emails or other apps doesn’t work. To fix this:
- Make sure you’ve set a default browser in Settings > Apps > Default Apps
- Right-click on a web link, select “Open with” and choose your preferred browser
- Check if your preferred browser is fully installed and working
Sometimes, a quick restart solves these linking problems. If links still won’t open, try reinstalling your preferred browser.
What problems have you run into while trying to disable Edge? Let me know and I might be able to help with specific solutions.
Conclusion
Disabling Microsoft Edge gives you control over your browsing experience and can improve system performance. While complete removal isn’t possible, the methods provided range from simple default browser changes to advanced registry tweaks.
Remember that Windows updates may reinstall Edge, and some Windows features depend on it. Always have an alternative browser ready before disabling Edge to maintain seamless web access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Microsoft Edge be permanently uninstalled?
No, Edge cannot be permanently removed from Windows as Microsoft regularly reinstalls it during updates, but you can temporarily disable it using these methods.
Will disabling Edge affect other Windows features?
Yes, some Windows features, like search results and system links, may not work properly if Edge is disabled without proper redirection setup.
Why does my antivirus flag Edge-disabling tools as malware?
These tools modify system processes and files, which trigger security alerts. They’re generally safe but require adding exclusions in your antivirus.
What’s the safest method to disable Edge?
Changing your default browser is safest. More aggressive methods like registry edits or third-party tools carry higher risks of system issues.
Does Edge reinstall after Windows updates?
Yes, major Windows updates typically reinstall Edge. You’ll need to reapply your chosen disabling method after significant system updates.
