Windows 11 is sleek, modern, and faster than its predecessors. But let’s be honest—not everyone loves Microsoft Edge as the default browser. Maybe you prefer Chrome for its extensions, Firefox for privacy, or Brave for speed. Whatever your favorite is, you’ll want it to open automatically whenever you click a link.
The catch? Windows 11 makes changing your default browser a little less straightforward than before. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to change your default browser in Windows 11 and make the switch permanent.
Why Change the Default Browser in Windows 11?
Microsoft Edge is fast and built-in, but it may not be the right fit for everyone. Here’s why people switch:
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Extensions & sync – Chrome users love syncing bookmarks and history across devices.
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Privacy focus – Firefox or Brave might feel safer for privacy-conscious users.
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⚡ Performance – Some browsers work better with your personal workflow.
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Familiarity – If you’ve used the same browser for years, it feels like home.
How Windows 11 Handles Default Browsers
Unlike Windows 10, where you could set your default browser with just one click, Windows 11 requires you to assign your preferred browser for different link and file types (like .htm, .html, http, and https).
This means you’ll have to go through a few extra steps—but once you do, your favorite browser will stay in control.
Method 1: Change Default Browser via Settings
This is the official and most reliable method to change your default browser.
Steps:
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Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
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Go to Apps > Default apps.
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Scroll down the list and click on your preferred browser (e.g., Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox).
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You’ll see a list of file types and link types (.html, .htm, http, https, etc.).
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For each one:
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Click the file type (e.g.,
.html). -
Select your browser from the list.
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Click OK.
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Repeat for .htm, .html, HTTP, and HTTPS.
Now, whenever you click a link, your chosen browser will open instead of Edge.
Method 2: Change Default Browser via “Set Defaults by App”
If you want a quicker way:
Steps:
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Open Settings > Apps > Default apps.
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Scroll down and select your browser.
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Click Set default (if the button is available).
⚠️ Note: Not all versions of Windows 11 show this button, but if it’s there, it saves you time!
Method 3: Change Default Browser from Browser Prompt
Most third-party browsers will ask you to set them as default the first time you launch them.
Steps (Example: Chrome):
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Install and open Google Chrome.
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A pop-up will appear: “Chrome is not your default browser”.
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Click Set as default.
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This will take you to Default apps settings where you can confirm the change.
Easy and fast if you’re setting up a new browser.
Method 4: Change Default Browser Using “Open With” Option
You can also change defaults directly when opening a link or file type.
Steps:
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Right-click on an HTML file (or any web-related file).
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Select Open with > Choose another app.
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Pick your browser from the list.
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Check the box Always use this app to open .html files.
Repeat the same for .htm files if necessary.
Bonus Tip: Prevent Windows from Switching Back to Edge
Sometimes, Windows tries to redirect certain system links back to Edge (like from Widgets or Windows Search). To fix this, you can use a tool called EdgeDeflector.
How EdgeDeflector Helps:
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Redirects links that force-open Edge into your chosen browser.
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Lightweight and free.
Download and install it, then set it as the default for MICROSOFT-EDGE protocol in your Default apps settings.
Troubleshooting: When Default Browser Won’t Change
If Windows keeps reverting to Edge:
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Update your browser – Make sure you’re using the latest version.
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Update Windows 11 – Older builds had more restrictions on browser defaults.
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Check Default apps again – Ensure all relevant file types (http, https, .htm, .html) point to your browser.
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️ Use EdgeDeflector – For system-enforced links.
Pros of Changing the Default Browser
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Full control over your browsing experience.
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Access to extensions and tools specific to your browser.
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Consistent browsing across all your devices.
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Avoids frustration from Edge constantly opening.
Cons of Changing the Default Browser
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Some system apps (like Cortana or Widgets) may still try to use Edge.
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Requires a few extra steps compared to Windows 10.
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Edge integrates tightly with Windows features like PDF reader.
Conclusion
Changing the default web browser in Windows 11 may take a little more effort than before, but it’s absolutely possible. Whether you prefer Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Opera, or another browser, the key steps are:
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Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps.
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Assign your browser to handle
.html,.htm,http, andhttps. -
Use tools like EdgeDeflector if needed.
Once you’ve set it up, you can browse the web your way—without Edge interrupting.
FAQs
1. Why does Windows 11 make it harder to change the default browser?
Microsoft wants to promote Edge, but users can still change it with a few extra steps.
2. Can I completely uninstall Microsoft Edge?
No, Edge is a core part of Windows 11, but you can stop using it by switching defaults.
3. Will changing the default browser affect system performance?
No—your system will run just as smoothly.
4. Why does Windows Search still open Edge?
Some system features force Edge, but you can use tools like EdgeDeflector to override this.
5. Can I set different browsers as default for different file types?
Yes, you can set Chrome for web links and Firefox for .html files if you prefer.