Are you tired of Microsoft Edge popping up every time you open a link or search online? Many Windows 11 users want to remove or at least disable Edge for good. But here’s the thing—Microsoft has made Edge a core part of the operating system, meaning you can’t uninstall it the same way you do with regular apps. However, there are several methods to remove, disable, or block it from opening.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to stop Microsoft Edge from interfering with your browsing experience.
Why Remove Microsoft Edge?
Before diving into the steps, let’s answer the obvious question: why would you want to get rid of Edge?
-
Preference for another browser: Chrome, Firefox, or Brave may feel faster or more familiar.
-
Reduce system clutter: Edge keeps running in the background even when you’re not using it.
-
Prevent unwanted pop-ups: Windows 11 sometimes forces Edge to open certain links.
-
Privacy concerns: Some users feel Microsoft collects too much data via Edge.
Can You Completely Uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Technically, Microsoft Edge is deeply integrated with Windows 11, so a full removal isn’t officially supported. But you can:
-
Uninstall the update-based version (if installed via an update).
-
Disable it so it no longer opens links.
-
Set another browser as default and stop Edge from launching.
Method 1: Change Your Default Browser
Sometimes, all you need is to stop Edge from opening links.
Step 1: Open Settings
-
Press Win + I.
Step 2: Go to Apps > Default Apps
-
Scroll down and select your preferred browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
Step 3: Change File Associations
-
Change for
.htm,.html,http, andhttpsto your new browser.
This doesn’t remove Edge but prevents it from taking over.
Method 2: Uninstall Microsoft Edge via Settings (If Available)
For some builds, you might see an uninstall option.
Step 1: Open Settings
-
Win + I > Apps > Installed apps
Step 2: Find Microsoft Edge
-
Search for Microsoft Edge.
Step 3: Click Uninstall
-
If available, click Uninstall and follow the prompts.
Note: This option is usually disabled on stable versions.
Method 3: Remove Microsoft Edge via Command Prompt
This is one of the most effective methods.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
-
Press Win + S, type
cmd, right-click, and choose Run as administrator.
Step 2: Locate the Edge Installation Folder
-
Navigate to:
cd %PROGRAMFILES(X86)%\Microsoft\Edge\Application
Step 3: Find the Version Folder
-
Type
dirto list folders. -
Open the version folder (e.g.,
cd 114.0.1823.67).
Step 4: Run the Uninstall Command
Edge should now be removed from your system.
Method 4: Disable Microsoft Edge via Group Policy Editor
(For Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education)
Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor
-
Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Edge Policies
-
Go to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Microsoft Edge
Step 3: Enable Blocking Policies
-
Configure settings like Prevent Microsoft Edge from starting automatically.
Method 5: Stop Microsoft Edge from Running in the Background
Even if you don’t use it, Edge often runs in the background.
Step 1: Open Edge Settings
-
Open Edge > Settings > System and performance.
Step 2: Disable Background Processes
-
Turn off Continue running background apps when Microsoft Edge is closed.
Method 6: Use a Third-Party Tool
Apps like Revo Uninstaller or Edge Remover claim to remove Edge completely.
Warning: Use these only if you’re comfortable with potential system changes.
Method 7: Block Microsoft Edge with a Firewall
If you can’t uninstall it, you can stop it from connecting to the internet.
Step 1: Open Windows Defender Firewall
-
Search Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.
Step 2: Create a New Outbound Rule
-
Select New Rule > Program > This program path.
-
Choose the Edge executable:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe
Step 3: Block the Connection
-
Select Block the connection, click Next, then Finish.
Method 8: Hide Microsoft Edge from the Taskbar and Start Menu
Sometimes, simply hiding it is enough.
-
Unpin from taskbar: Right-click Edge icon > Unpin from taskbar.
-
Remove from Start menu: Right-click > Unpin from Start.
Is It Safe to Remove Microsoft Edge?
Removing or disabling Edge doesn’t usually break Windows 11, but:
-
Some system features (like Widgets) might open links in Edge anyway.
-
Windows updates may reinstall Edge automatically.
How to Reinstall Microsoft Edge (If Needed)
If you change your mind:
-
Go to Microsoft Edge Download Page.
-
Download and install it again.
Final Thoughts
Getting rid of Microsoft Edge in Windows 11 isn’t always straightforward, but it’s definitely possible. Whether you just want to stop it from opening links or completely uninstall it using Command Prompt, the steps above give you full control.
Remember, updates may bring Edge back, so you might need to repeat some steps after major Windows updates.
FAQs
1. Can I uninstall Microsoft Edge completely?
Yes, using Command Prompt or third-party tools, but Microsoft may reinstall it via updates.
2. Will removing Edge affect my system?
Not significantly, but some Windows features may still try to use Edge.
3. Can I stop Edge from opening links without uninstalling it?
Yes, by changing your default browser and file associations.
4. Is it legal to uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Yes, it’s your PC, but Microsoft doesn’t officially recommend it.
5. Will Windows updates reinstall Edge after I remove it?
Yes, major updates may reinstall it automatically.