If you want to know how to change default browser Windows 11, you’ve come to the right place! Even though Microsoft Edge has made great improvements over the years, Google Chrome still dominates the market by a significant margin.
Microsoft’s OS’s original release made it difficult to use another browser as the default until they received numerous complaints. Now, it’s easy to change Edge as your default browser.
However, you may encounter situations where your default third-party browser changes without your permission. Regardless, this guide will show you how to set default browser Windows 11 without facing such problems.
Let’s begin.
How to Set Default Browser in Windows 11
This section will show you how to set Google Chrome as the default browser in Windows 11, including other third-party browsers. Go through them and use the method that works best for you.
Method 1: Using Settings
Here’s how to set Chrome as default browser Windows 11. Remember that you can use this method to change the default browser to other third-party browsers like Opera, Firefox, etc.
- Press the Windows logo and click on “Settings.” Alternatively, press the “Windows logo + I” to open the Settings app instantly
- Select “Apps,” located in the left sidebar, and select “Default Apps.”
- Click on the browser you want to make the default.
- Select “Set default.”
- Make sure that the HTTP and HTTPS sections are set to your preferred default browser. If not, change them.
Remember that when you click on a link in Windows News or Windows Search, it’ll always open in Microsoft Edge. It doesn’t matter if your default browser is a third-party browser.
Also Read: What is the Best Internet Browser?
Method 2: Using Control Panel
Here’s how to make Chrome default browser Windows 11 using the control panel:
- Click on the Windows search bar and type “Control Panel.” to launch the program. Press “Windows logo + R” to open the Run dialog. Then type “Control Panel” and press “Enter” to open the app.
- Change the “View by” in the Control Panel to “Large icons” or “Small icons.”
- Click “Default Programs.” Alternatively, you can type “Default Programs” in the search bar to open the program.
- Click on “Set your default programs.”
- You’ll be redirected to Windows Settings, where you click your preferred browser, such as the Opera browser.
- Click on “Set Default.”
Related: Windows 10 Control Panel: Where to Find It
Method 3: Using Google Chrome Settings
If you want to set default browser Windows 11 in Google Chrome, follow the steps below:
- Launch the Google Chrome browser.
- Click on the three-dot menu icon in the upper-right corner to open the dropdown menu, and click “Settings.”
- Scroll down and click “On startup” in the left sidebar.
- Select “Open a specific page or set of pages.” Then click “Add a new page” and enter your preferred homepage’s URL.
- Click “Default browser” and “Make Default.” to make Google Chrome your default browser.
- Alternatively, type “chrome://settings/defaultBrowser” in your Chrome browser to set Chrome as default Windows 11.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions
It’s easy to set Chrome as default browser Windows 11, including third-party browsers. But, sometimes, problems may prevent your desired settings from being implemented.
We’ll show you the problems you’re likely to face and ways to solve them:
1. Browser Settings Not Applied
Sometimes, when you make Google default browser Windows 11, links still open in a different browser after you save them. If that’s your situation, restart your computer. Sometimes, all it takes to correct this problem is a restart.
Also, ensure that the “Default apps” settings in Windows 11 have your default browser set appropriately. And make sure your preferred browser is selected.
2. Default Browser Keeps Changing
Several reasons can cause your preferred default browser to keep changing even after learning how to set Chrome as default browser Windows 11.
First, some applications can cause your browser’s default settings to change. So search and remove any third-party programs that might be causing the problem.
You can use reliable software programs like Auslogics BoostSpeed 13 to help you solve the problem.
For example, the application has a “Startup Manager” feature that helps you to manage which apps launch automatically.
If a third party is responsible for default browser settings changes, it might identify and disable the feature.
Related: Speed Up Slow Computer as a Pro – Introducing Auslogics BoostSpeed 13
Use Reliable Security Software
Use trustworthy security software to perform a complete malware scan on your computer to ensure no harmful applications change your settings. You can check out Auslogics Anti-Malware to thoroughly check for malware and delete them.
Also, make sure the version of Windows 11 you are using is up to date. Sometimes, Windows updates can resolve the problem.
Related: Auslogics Anti-Malware: Features and Reviews
3. Unable to Set Chrome as Default Browser
If you set default browser Windows 11, but it doesn’t work, consider the below solutions:
Update Chrome
Ensure that the most recent version of Google Chrome is installed on your computer.
Chrome Settings
Ensure Chrome is set to open a specific page or page in Chrome settings. Visit “Default browser” settings in Chrome and then select “Make default.“
Alternative Methods
If the regular Windows 11 settings don’t work, try making Chrome the default browser using the methods discussed on this page. If the problem persists, restore Chrome’s default settings before setting it as the default browser again.
Tips for Optimizing Your Browser Experience
You can significantly improve your web browsing experience by implementing useful optimization methods. Here are some crucial tips you can implement:
1. Clearing Cache and Cookies Regularly
Your browser builds up temporary files like cookies and cache over time, and this can cause slow browsing speed. You can improve performance and privacy by deleting these files regularly.
You can use Auslogics’ Disk Cleaner tool to scan and delete unnecessary items, including browser cache and cookies. This is the fastest and simplest way to improve your browsing experience.
Related: Get the Most Out of Auslogics BoostSpeed Free Trial
2. Keeping the Browser Up to Date
Browser updates usually include security updates, bug fixes, and speed improvements. You can take advantage of the newest improvements by updating your browser.
3. Managing Extensions and Add-ons
Browser extensions and add-ons can boost your browser’s functionality. However, having too many extensions or ones that are not well-optimized can slow down your browser and potentially cause compatibility problems.
To improve browser speed, you can quickly examine and manage browser extensions with Auslogics BoostSpeed.
4. Utilizing Productivity Features
Numerous productivity tools, including bookmarks, built-in tools, and tab management, are available in browsers. So after learning how to change browser to Google, you can use these features to navigate the web more quickly.
Conclusion
Compared to earlier versions of Windows, changing the default browser has become a smoother process. So you can quickly learn how to set Google as default browser Windows 11.
Throughout this guide, we’ve outlined the methods to change default browsers on Windows 11. You can designate your favorite browser as the default one using the settings menu, Control Panel, or browser-specific options.
Clearing the cache and updating the browser are two easy yet effective ways to improve your online experience. You can make browsing easier by controlling extensions and using productivity tools.
FAQ
How to Make Firefox the Default Browser on Windows 11
To set Firefox as your default browser, open “Settings.” Then select “Apps,” then “Default apps.” Search for “Mozilla Firefox” and click on it. Lastly, click on “Set default.”
How to Remove Microsoft Edge as Default Browser in Windows 11
If you want to remove Microsoft Edge as the default browser, Open “Settings.” Go to “Apps,” then “Default apps.” Then choose another browser to replace Edge.
