Disabling Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through the steps to disable Microsoft Edge, making sure it won’t interfere with your preferred browser. By following these instructions, you’ll have Edge out of the way in no time.
How to Disable Edge in Windows 10
The following steps will help you disable Microsoft Edge in Windows 10. By the end, Edge will no longer open automatically or run in the background.
Step 1: Open File Explorer
First, open your File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon on your taskbar or pressing the Windows key + E.
File Explorer is where you’ll navigate through your system’s files and directories. It’s important to know your way around here to find the necessary files to disable Edge.
Step 2: Navigate to the Edge Installation Folder
Go to the following folder: C:WindowsSystemApps. Look for the folder named "Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe".
This folder contains all the files that Microsoft Edge uses to operate. We need to change this folder to disable Edge.
Step 3: Rename the Folder
Right-click on the "Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe" folder and select "Rename". Change the folder name to something like "Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe_old".
Renaming this folder essentially prevents Windows from being able to locate the files it needs to run Edge, effectively disabling it.
Step 4: Modify Permissions (If Necessary)
If you get an error when trying to rename the folder, you might need to change the folder permissions. Right-click the folder, go to "Properties", then "Security", and click "Advanced". Change the owner to your user account and grant yourself full control.
Modifying permissions gives you the necessary rights to change the folder name, ensuring you can complete the process.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to apply the changes. After the restart, Microsoft Edge should no longer open.
A restart ensures all changes take effect, and Edge should be disabled as intended.
Once you complete these steps, Microsoft Edge should no longer be active on your system. It won’t launch automatically, nor will it run in the background.
Tips for Disabling Edge in Windows 10
- Backup Important Files: Always back up important files before making changes to system directories.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your Windows 10 is up-to-date to avoid any issues with the steps.
- Use an Alternative Browser: Make sure you have another browser installed and set as the default.
- Undo Changes if Needed: If something goes wrong, remember you can always go back and rename the folder to its original name.
- Consult Forums: If you encounter problems, forums and tech communities can be invaluable resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to disable Microsoft Edge?
Yes, it is generally safe to disable Microsoft Edge if you have another browser installed. However, some Windows features may still rely on Edge.
Can I reinstall Edge if I need it later?
Absolutely. You can rename the folder back to its original name or download Edge from the Microsoft website.
Will disabling Edge affect my system performance?
Not significantly. Disabling Edge may free up some resources, but the difference is usually minimal.
What if I can’t change the folder name?
Check your user permissions. You may need to modify permissions to allow full control, as detailed in Step 4.
Can I disable Edge through settings?
Not directly. Disabling Edge requires accessing system files, as detailed in the steps above.
Summary
- Open File Explorer.
- Navigate to C:WindowsSystemApps.
- Rename the Edge folder.
- Modify permissions if needed.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Disabling Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 might seem daunting, but it’s pretty straightforward if you follow these steps. By renaming the Edge system folder, you effectively prevent it from running, allowing you to use your preferred browser without interruption. Remember to follow the tips to ensure a smooth process. If you ever change your mind, you can always revert the changes or reinstall Edge. For more detailed computer tweaks and tips, feel free to explore tech forums or read further articles on the subject. So, go ahead—take control of your Windows 10 experience!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.