Turning off Microsoft Edge in Windows 11 is a straightforward process but requires a few steps deep into your system settings. By following these steps, you can prevent Microsoft Edge from launching automatically or running in the background, aligning your system more closely with your preferences.
How to Turn Off Microsoft Edge in Windows 11
In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to disable Microsoft Edge on your Windows 11 computer. This includes stopping it from starting up automatically and preventing it from running background tasks.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
First, click on the Start button and then on the Settings icon to open the Settings menu.
The Settings menu is where you will find various options to customize your Windows experience. You can usually find the Settings icon as a small gear wheel located in the Start menu.
Step 2: Go to Apps
Navigate to the ‘Apps’ section in the Settings menu.
This section manages all the installed applications on your system. It’s your go-to place for uninstalling, modifying, or configuring apps.
Step 3: Click on Installed Apps
Next, click on ‘Installed apps’ to see a list of all the applications currently installed on your machine.
You will see all your apps listed here, from system applications like Microsoft Edge to third-party software you’ve installed.
Step 4: Find Microsoft Edge
Scroll down the list or use the search bar to find Microsoft Edge.
Microsoft Edge may be pre-installed, so it will be listed among your system applications. This step is crucial as you need to pinpoint Edge to modify its settings.
Step 5: Modify Edge Settings
Click on the three-dot menu next to Microsoft Edge and select ‘Advanced Options.’
This menu gives you additional settings you can change, including permissions and background activity.
Step 6: Disable Background Activity
In the Advanced Options, find the ‘Background apps permissions’ section and set it to ‘Never.’
Setting this to ‘Never’ stops Edge from running background tasks when you’re not actively using it, saving system resources.
Step 7: Turn Off Startup Boost
Locate the ‘Startup Boost’ section and turn off the toggle.
Startup Boost is designed to make Edge launch faster, but if you turn it off, it won’t start up automatically with your system.
After completing these steps, Microsoft Edge will no longer run in the background or start automatically with your system. You can still open it manually whenever you need to use it.
Tips for Turning Off Microsoft Edge in Windows 11
- Use Task Manager: If Edge still pops up, check the Task Manager for any lingering processes.
- Set Default Browser: Make sure to set another browser as your default to avoid any Edge prompts.
- Regularly Check Settings: Sometimes updates can reset settings, so it’s good to check periodically.
- Use Group Policy Editor: For more advanced control, consider using the Group Policy Editor.
- Stay Updated: Keep your system updated as Microsoft may change how these settings work in future updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will disabling Microsoft Edge affect my system?
No, disabling Edge won’t affect your system’s performance or functionality. You can still use another web browser.
Can I completely uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Microsoft Edge is a core component of Windows 11, so it can’t be fully uninstalled. However, you can disable it.
What if Microsoft Edge keeps starting up?
Ensure you’ve disabled all startup boosts and background activities. Check Task Manager for any running processes.
Does disabling Edge save system resources?
Yes, stopping Edge from running in the background can free up memory and CPU resources.
Is there a way to re-enable Edge if needed?
Yes, you can follow the same steps and toggle the settings back on if you need to use Microsoft Edge again.
Summary
- Open the Settings Menu.
- Go to Apps.
- Click on Installed Apps.
- Find Microsoft Edge.
- Modify Edge Settings.
- Disable Background Activity.
- Turn Off Startup Boost.
Conclusion
Turning off Microsoft Edge in Windows 11 can enhance your system’s efficiency and tailor your computing experience to your preferences. Though Edge is integrated into Windows, disabling it from running automatically or in the background is simple and effective. This guide provides all the steps you need to take control of your system resources and even suggests further readings and tips for maintaining these settings in the future. Whether you prefer another browser or just want to reclaim some system performance, these steps will help you achieve your goal. Happy computing!
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.