Want to change or set your default browser in Windows 11? Learn how to access the default apps settings and set Chrome, Firefox, or any browser as your default quickly and easily.
In Windows 11, Microsoft has redesigned many core elements of the operating system—including the way users set a default web browser. If you’re trying to switch from Microsoft Edge to your preferred browser like Google Chrome, Firefox, or Opera, the process might seem confusing at first.
What is the Default Browser in Windows 11?
The default browser in Windows 11 is the application your system uses to open links from apps, emails, documents, and other programs. When you click on a hyperlink, Windows will automatically use this default web browser to launch the webpage. Out of the box, Windows 11 uses Microsoft Edge as the built-in default browser.
Unlike previous versions of Windows where changing the browser was a single-step process, Windows 11 initially made it more complex by requiring changes for each file type like .html, .htm, .pdf, and web protocols like HTTP and HTTPS. However, Microsoft has since simplified the process through system updates, making it easier to set your favorite browser as the default with just one click.
Does Windows 11 Have a Default Browser?
Yes, Windows 11 comes with Microsoft Edge as the pre-installed and default browser. Edge is tightly integrated into the operating system and is used for a variety of functions like Windows search, widgets, and opening links from system apps.
Although Edge is fast and secure, many users prefer browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Brave, or Opera due to features like better sync across devices, broader extension support, or privacy controls. Fortunately, Windows 11 allows you to switch to any browser of your choice, though you may need to override the default settings to ensure links open in your preferred browser.
How to Switch Default Browser in Windows 11
To change your default web browser in Windows 11, follow these simple steps using the updated method provided in newer builds of the OS.
Step-by-Step: Set Google Chrome as Default Browser in Windows 11
If you’ve installed Google Chrome and want to make it your default browser:
- Click on the Start button (Windows icon) located on the taskbar.
- Type and open Settings from the search results.
- In the Settings window, go to Apps from the sidebar.
- Select Default apps from the list.
- In the search bar at the top, type Google Chrome (or scroll through the app list and click on Google Chrome).
- Once you open Google Chrome settings, you’ll see a prompt at the top that says:
“Make Google Chrome your default browser?”
Next to it, you’ll see a Set default button. - Click the “Set default” button.
This will automatically set Google Chrome as the default app for most web-related protocols and file types including .html, .htm, HTTP, and HTTPS.
If you use another browser like Firefox or Brave, the process is the same—just search for that browser in the Default apps section instead.
Important Note: If you don’t see the one-click option, you may have an older build of Windows 11. In that case, you’ll need to manually click on each protocol (like .html, HTTP, etc.) and change the default app from Microsoft Edge to Google Chrome or your browser of choice.
Final Thoughts
Setting a default browser in Windows 11 is now easier than it was during the OS’s early release phase. Thanks to user feedback and system updates, you can now switch from Microsoft Edge to Google Chrome, Firefox, or any other browser with just one click in the Default Apps settings. Whether you’re browsing the web for work, research, or entertainment, using your preferred browser improves convenience and efficiency.
Now that you know how to take full control of your browser settings, you can customize your Windows 11 experience to match your personal preferences.
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