How to Reset Edge Browser in Windows 10
Resetting Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 can fix a lot of the common issues like sluggish performance, crashes, or even stubborn settings that just won’t change. It’s a simple process: you’ll reset the browser to its default settings, clear out temporary data, and get a fresh start. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to do.
How to Reset Edge Browser in Windows 10
This section will guide you through the steps to reset Microsoft Edge in Windows 10. Follow these instructions to restore the browser to its default state and clear out any troublesome settings or data.
Step 1: Open Edge Settings
First, open Microsoft Edge and click on the three dots (menu) in the top right corner. Then, select "Settings."
When you click on the menu, a dropdown will appear with various options. Clicking on "Settings" will open a new page within Edge where you can adjust the browser’s options.
Step 2: Navigate to Reset Settings
In the Settings page, scroll down and click on "Reset settings."
At the bottom of the Settings page, you’ll find an option labeled "Reset settings." This is where you can reset the browser to its default state.
Step 3: Confirm the Reset
Select "Restore settings to their default values" and then click "Reset."
A pop-up will appear asking you to confirm your choice. Clicking "Reset" will initiate the process of restoring Edge to its original settings.
Step 4: Restart Edge
Close Microsoft Edge and reopen it to complete the reset process.
After you’ve confirmed the reset, it’s a good idea to restart the browser to ensure that all changes take effect.
Step 5: Sign Back In
If you were signed in, you’ll need to sign back into your Microsoft account to sync your data again.
Resetting the browser will log you out of your Microsoft account, so you’ll need to sign back in to access your bookmarks, passwords, and other synced data.
Once you’ve completed these steps, Microsoft Edge will be reset to its default state. This means that your settings, temporary data, and extensions will be cleared out, giving you a fresh start.
Tips for Resetting Edge Browser in Windows 10
- Make sure to back up any important data, like bookmarks or saved passwords, before starting the reset process.
- Resetting can solve various performance issues, including slow loading times and crashes.
- You can also try clearing the browser cache first to see if that solves the problem before going for a full reset.
- If you have extensions, you’ll need to reinstall them after the reset.
- Regularly updating your browser can help avoid the need for frequent resets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I reset Microsoft Edge?
Resetting can fix a variety of issues, including slow performance, crashes, or settings that won’t change.
Will I lose my bookmarks and passwords?
Yes, you will lose them unless they are synced to your Microsoft account. Make sure to sign back in after resetting.
How often should I reset my browser?
Only reset when you experience issues that can’t be solved by other means, like clearing the cache.
Is there an alternative to resetting?
You can try clearing the browser cache or disabling extensions to see if that resolves the issue first.
Do I need to update Edge after resetting?
No, but it’s always a good idea to check for updates to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
Step-by-Step Summary
- Open Edge Settings.
- Navigate to Reset Settings.
- Confirm the Reset.
- Restart Edge.
- Sign Back In.
Conclusion
Resetting your Edge browser in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can solve many common issues, from performance problems to stubborn settings. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have the browser back to its default settings in no time. Remember to back up any important data before you start, and don’t forget to sign back into your Microsoft account to sync your bookmarks and passwords again.
If you find yourself frequently needing to reset your browser, it might be worth looking into regular maintenance steps like clearing your cache and updating Edge. A well-maintained browser can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Feel free to share this guide with anyone who might find it useful. And if you have any more questions, check out the FAQ section or leave a comment below. For more in-depth tips and tricks on navigating Windows 10, keep an eye out for our other articles. Happy browsing!
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.