Setting the Default Browser

Written by Barry Dysert (last updated May 25, 2020)

Windows 10 comes with a new browser to replace Internet Explorer. It's called Edge, and Microsoft naturally wants you to use it. If you've grown partial to another browser, though, you may not want Edge to be the default browser. In such a case, you can set your default browser to something else. Personally, I like using Google's Chrome browser, so this tip will show you how to set your default browser to Chrome.

To get started, go to Start | Settings and click Apps: (See Figure 1.)

Figure 1. Going to the Apps settings.

When you click Apps, a new window will appear that looks like this: (See Figure 2.)

Figure 2. Going to Default apps.

At this screen, click the "Default apps" item, and you'll see the following. (You may have to scroll down to find the Web Browser item): (See Figure 3.)

Figure 3. Displaying the Web browser item.

Click the link under "Web browser" and you'll see a window pop up that lists the available browsers on your system: (See Figure 4.)

Figure 4. Choosing Google Chrome as the default Web browser.

Since I'm setting my default browser to Chrome, I just click on the Google Chrome item and then close the Settings window. Now, whenever I click a hyperlink, it will open in Chrome instead of Edge.

 This tip (13469) applies to Windows 10.

Author Bio

Barry Dysert

Barry has been a computer professional for over 35 years, working in different positions such as technical team leader, project manager, and software developer. He is currently a software engineer with an emphasis on developing custom applications under Microsoft Windows. When not working with Windows or writing Tips, Barry is an amateur writer. His first non-fiction book is titled "A Chronological Commentary of Revelation." ...

MORE FROM BARRY

Deferring Windows Updates

Are you bothered by when Windows decides to do its updates? If you want some control over when Windows downloads and ...

Discover More

Using a Dvorak Keyboard with Windows

Dvorak keyboards can provide more efficient typing as well as make the keyboard characters more accessible to those who ...

Discover More

Using Robocopy to Copy Entire Directories

It's simple to use Robocopy to copy entire directories. Dealing with directories is what it does best! This tip shows you ...

Discover More
More WindowsTips

Going InPrivate in Edge Chromium

When web browsing there may be times that you need to keep information private. Microsoft Edge Chromium allows for easy ...

Discover More

Blocking Automatic Installation of Microsoft Edge

Windows 10 will be receiving a forced upgrade to the new Microsoft Edge Chromium web browser. You can use the free ...

Discover More

Introduction to Microsoft Edge

Windows 10 comes with a nice replacement for Internet Explorer (which is still retained for those who need it). This new ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 7 - 7?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)


Newest Tips