How to Change Your Default Browser in Windows 11

Installing Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or another browser does not necessarily make it the browser Windows uses automatically.

You also need to set the browser as your default.

Change the default

1. Open Settings. 2. Select Apps. 3. Select Default apps. 4. Search for the browser you want to use. 5. Select it. 6. Choose the available option to make it the default.

The exact presentation can vary as Windows is updated, but Settings > Apps > Default apps is the important place to start.

What does “default browser” mean?

Your default browser is the application Windows normally chooses when another program asks it to open a standard web link.

Changing the default does not uninstall Microsoft Edge or any other browser.

You can keep several browsers installed and open any of them manually whenever you want.

What if the wrong browser still opens sometimes?

First restart the application containing the link and try again.

Also return to Default apps and make sure the intended browser is still selected.

Some applications may handle particular links differently, so one unusual link does not necessarily mean your overall default-browser setting failed.

What about Windows 11 in S mode?

Windows 11 in S mode has additional restrictions. Microsoft states that Edge remains the default web browser while the computer is in S mode.

Do not switch out of S mode casually just to experiment. Leaving S mode is a separate decision and cannot simply be reversed like an ordinary preference.

Browser choice doesn't automatically improve security

Whichever mainstream browser you choose, keep it updated and pay attention to website permissions and security warnings.

If websites have been filling your screen with unwanted Chrome notifications, changing the default browser is not the real fix. See How to Stop Websites From Sending Annoying Notifications in Chrome.

The bottom line

For an ordinary Windows 11 PC, start at Settings > Apps > Default apps. Choose the browser you actually want Windows to use. You can still keep and use other browsers whenever you need them.

Sources and Further Reading

Microsoft Support — Windows 11 default-app guidance