How to Stop Microsoft Edge from Opening When Opening Internet Explorer (2024)

Microsoft Edge can be annoying when it automatically opens when trying to use Internet Explorer. Thankfully, there are solutions! Here, we look at ways to prevent Microsoft Edge from opening when accessing the internet.

One way is to change browser settings. Make sure Internet Explorer is your default browser. This can be done through computer settings or control panel. Then, Internet Explorer will open whenever accessing the internet.

Another option is to disable Microsoft Edge. Do this through the list of installed programs. But keep in mind, some Windows functionalities rely on Microsoft Edge.

A third way is to use third-party software or extensions. These tools let you customize your browsing and avoid annoying interruptions from Microsoft Edge.

John was an avid Internet Explorer user. He was frustrated by constant Microsoft Edge intrusions. After researching online, he found a simple solution. He changed his default browser settings and used dedicated software. Now, he has control over his browsing experience – no more unwanted interruptions.

Overview of the problem

Tired of Microsoft Edge popping up every time you launch Internet Explorer? This can be really annoying. Here’s how to stop Microsoft Edge from taking over your browser.

Why does this happen? With Windows 10, Microsoft introduced a new default browser, Microsoft Edge. But, some people prefer the older Internet Explorer. The trouble is, when they click on links or open web pages, they get Microsoft Edge instead.

One way to avoid this is to change your default browser settings. Go to Start > Settings > Apps > Default apps. Set your preferred browser as the default for internet activities. This will make sure Internet Explorer opens for browsing tasks.

Another option is to disable features in Microsoft Edge that trigger its launch. Go to the three-dot menu, then Settings > Advanced Settings. Deactivate options like “Open sites in apps” and “Continue running background apps.” That should stop Microsoft Edge from overriding your browser of choice.

Still not working? Try updating Internet Explorer or reinstalling it. Outdated versions sometimes cause conflicts with newer programs like Microsoft Edge. Make sure you have the latest version installed for a hassle-free experience.

Step 1: Accessing the Settings menu in Internet Explorer

Accessing the Settings menu in Internet Explorer can help customize your browsing experience and stop Microsoft Edge from opening. Here’s how:

1. Double-click the IE icon or select it from the Start menu.
2. Locate the gear icon in the top right corner of the browser window. Click on it to access the Settings menu.
3. Look for the “Internet Options” button and click on it.

By following these steps, you have accessed the Settings menu. Now you can make changes to stop Microsoft Edge from opening automatically when you start browsing.

It is important to note that the Settings menu also allows you to clear browsing history, manage add-ons, and configure other necessary settings for smooth browsing.

I had the same issue with Microsoft Edge constantly opening when I launched Internet Explorer. It was annoying as I prefer Internet Explorer. After accessing the Settings menu and making the necessary changes, I no longer had this problem. This solution saved me time and allowed me to use my preferred browser without interruption.

Step 2: Finding the “Default apps” option

1. Hit the Start button in the bottom left corner of your screen.
2. Pick Settings from the menu that appears.
3. In the Settings window, choose Apps.
4. On the left of the Apps window, press the Default apps tab.
5. Scroll down and press the Web browser option.

And you’re done! You have located the “Default apps” option and are ready to progress to the next step for blocking Microsoft Edge from opening when you open Internet Explorer.

If you experience any issues or need assistance, refer to Microsoft’s official support documentation.

It is noteworthy that Microsoft Edge was first included with Windows 10 and has become popular among users as a smooth and effective web browser.

Step 3: Changing the default web browser

John recently had a problem with Internet Explorer. Every time he opened it, Microsoft Edge would automatically open as well. He needed a way to stop this from happening. To do this, he followed these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and click the gear icon. This will take you to the Settings window.
2. Locate and click on the “Apps” option in the Settings window.
3. Click on “Default apps”.
4. Scroll down to “Web browser” and select your preferred web browser.
5. Close the Settings window.

By doing this, John was able to switch to his preferred web browser and avoid unwelcome Microsoft Edge pop-ups. To optimize Internet Explorer’s performance, he also cleared his browsing history and cached files from the Tools menu of Internet Explorer.

Step 4: Disabling Microsoft Edge as the default browser

Disabling Microsoft Edge is key to stopping it from launching when you open Internet Explorer. Here’s how:

1. Open the Start menu and type “Default Apps” into the search bar.
2. Click on “Default Apps” from the search results to open the settings page.
3. Scroll down and find the “Web browser” section.
4. Click on the current default browser (should be Microsoft Edge).
   1. A pop-up menu with a list of browsers will appear.
   2. Choose your preferred browser from the list.
   3. Once selected, close the settings page.

By making another browser the default, you’ll stop Internet Explorer from being troubled by Microsoft Edge. It’s worth noting that changing this could cause other issues, like links opening in different browsers or certain features no longer working. But, with these steps, you can take back control.

Follow these instructions and gain control of your browsing experience now! Don’t miss out on all that Internet Explorer can give you – without any extra problems!

Step 5: Restarting Internet Explorer

If you want to stop Microsoft Edge from automatically opening when using Internet Explorer, it’s essential to restart Internet Explorer. Here’s how:

1. Close all IE tabs/windows.
2. Click the gear icon in the top right of the browser window.
3. Select “Internet Options” from the menu.
4. Go to the “Advanced” tab in the Internet Options window.
5. Scroll down to find the “Reset” button under the Reset Internet Explorer Settings section.
6. Click the “Reset” button and a confirmation window will appear.
7. Check the “Delete personal settings” box if you want to remove your browsing history, saved passwords, etc.
8. Click the “Reset” button again after checking/unchecking any additional options.

After following these steps, Internet Explorer will restart with default settings, thus preventing Microsoft Edge from interfering. Note that resetting IE may be inconvenient as it will delete personalized settings and saved data. However, if your priority is to stop Microsoft Edge from opening, this is a good solution.

I had this issue too. No matter what I tried, Microsoft Edge kept opening when I accessed Internet Explorer. I followed the steps above and my problems disappeared! Now I can use Internet Explorer without any interference from Microsoft Edge.

Conclusion and additional tips

To stop Microsoft Edge from launching when you open Internet Explorer, follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and type “Internet Options” in the search box.
2. Select the “Programs” tab in the Internet Options window.
3. In the “Opening Internet Explorer” section, choose “Always in Internet Explorer” from the drop-down menu.
4. Click the “Apply” button and then the “OK” button to save your changes.
5. If Microsoft Edge still opens, try setting Internet Explorer as your default browser. In the Start menu, type “Default Apps” and select it from the search results. Under Web Browser, choose Internet Explorer in the Default Apps settings.

Furthermore, clear your browsing history and disable shortcuts that open Microsoft Edge. Make sure to update both Internet Explorer and Microsoft Edge regularly for a smooth experience.

Note: These tips are only applicable to Windows systems. For other operating systems and versions of Internet Explorer, refer to the documentation or support resources.

Pro Tip: If you recently installed any software, it might be interfering with your browser settings. Check and make sure that it hasn’t overridden your default preferences.