Edge keeps opening instead of your chosen browser usually because the default browser is not fully set, or because Windows deliberately opens certain built-in links in Edge no matter what. To fix it, set your preferred browser as default for all relevant link types in Windows Settings. Be aware that some Windows components, like Widgets and search results, may still open in Edge by design.
Why this happens
Windows lets you pick a default browser, but the setting is more layered than it looks, and Microsoft ties parts of the system to Edge.
- Your default is set for some link types but not others, such as the http and https web links.
- A Windows update reset the default browser back to Edge.
- Certain system links, including Widgets and some search results, are hardcoded to open in Edge.
- An app is set to launch Edge directly rather than your default browser.
- Edge is set to start with Windows, so it appears on its own.
Is this normal?
Partly. Having to set the default for several link types is normal on Windows. It is also normal, if frustrating, that Microsoft routes some built-in links to Edge regardless of your default choice.
Does it cause any problems?
It is mostly an annoyance that breaks your workflow and can leave extra Edge windows open. It does not harm your files or your preferred browser, which still works normally when you open it yourself.
How to fix or check it
- On Windows 11, open Settings, Apps, Default apps, select your preferred browser, and click Set default, then confirm the http and https entries also point to it.
- On Windows 10, open Settings, Apps, Default apps, and under Web browser choose your preferred browser.
- Check that your browser did not silently revert after an update, and reset it if it did.
- Stop Edge from launching at startup. Open Task Manager, Startup apps, and disable Microsoft Edge if it is enabled.
- In Edge, open Settings, System and performance, and turn off Startup boost and the option that keeps Edge running in the background.
- On Mac, set your default in System Settings, Desktop and Dock, under Default web browser.
- Understand that some Windows links, such as Widgets and parts of search, may still open in Edge because Microsoft forces this, and there is no built-in way to change it.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Windows search still open Edge even after I changed my default?
Microsoft intentionally routes some system links, including search results and Widgets, through Edge regardless of your default browser. This behavior is built into Windows and cannot be changed with standard settings.
Did a Windows update reset my default browser?
It can happen. Feature updates sometimes reset defaults or add new link types tied to Edge. After a big update, recheck your default browser settings and set your preferred browser again if needed.
How do I stop Edge from starting with Windows?
Open Task Manager, go to Startup apps, and disable Microsoft Edge. Then in Edge Settings, under System and performance, turn off Startup boost and the option that keeps Edge running in the background.