Podcast Summary: Hands-On Windows 152: Microsoft Edge Pt. 3

Podcast Information:

• Title: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)
• Host: TWiT (Leo Laporte)
• Episode: Hands-On Windows 152: Microsoft Edge Pt. 3
• Release Date: August 7, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of Hands-On Windows, host Paul Thurott delves deep into the intricacies of Microsoft Edge on Windows 11. Aimed at users who prefer alternative browsers like Google Chrome or Brave, Paul addresses common frustrations and provides actionable solutions to optimize their Windows experience without relying on Edge.

Persistent Presence of Microsoft Edge

Paul begins by highlighting the challenges users face with Microsoft Edge's persistent background activity and intrusive prompts to switch back to it.

Paul Thurott [04:50]: "Edge is still running in the background, and it's going to pop up regardless of which browser you set as default."

He explains that even after setting a different default browser, Edge can still interfere through features like search highlights and the widgets interface, which may default to Bing searches.

Configuring a Different Default Browser

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on properly setting an alternative browser as the default. Paul guides listeners through the Windows Settings to ensure comprehensive configuration.

Paul Thurott [04:15]: "Go to Apps, then Default Apps in the Settings app. Scroll down to your preferred browser and set it as default for all relevant protocols and file types, such as web links and PDFs."

However, he notes that merely setting a different default browser might not suffice due to Edge's lingering processes.

Utilizing Third-Party Utilities

To combat Edge's stubborn presence, Paul introduces a third-party utility called Ms. Edge Direct, which intercepts system-level calls that would otherwise default to Edge.

Paul Thurott [06:05]: "Ms. Edge Direct is a free, open-source tool that redirects system calls from Edge to your chosen browser, ensuring a cleaner experience."

He emphasizes the importance of such tools in maintaining control over the browser environment, especially when default settings fall short.

Managing Startup Processes

Addressing the issue of Edge running in the background, Paul advises users to disable Edge's startup processes:

Paul Thurott [07:40]: "Navigate to the Startup section in the Settings or use Task Manager to disable Edge from running automatically when your computer boots up."

Additionally, he recommends disabling the Startup Boost feature, which preloads websites based on user behavior, thereby reducing system resources and preventing unwanted Edge activity.

Advanced System Configurations

For users seeking a more thorough removal, Paul discusses the implications of uninstalling Edge altogether—a feature typically restricted outside Europe but achievable with specific utilities like WindToys.

Paul Thurott [09:20]: "With WindToys, you can uninstall Edge, granting you complete freedom from its integration into the Windows ecosystem."

He cautions, however, that maintaining an alternative browser alongside Edge can be beneficial for backup purposes or managing multiple sign-ins for services like PayPal.

Enhancing Privacy and Security

Paul doesn't stop at browser configuration; he also touches on enhancing privacy across all browsers to prevent tracking. He highly recommends installing extensions such as Privacy Badger and AdBlock Plus.

Paul Thurott [10:55]: "Regardless of your browser choice, ensure you have robust privacy extensions to safeguard your online activities from unwanted tracking and ads."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up the episode, Paul reiterates that while completely eliminating Edge from Windows 11 requires several steps and sometimes third-party tools, the effort results in a more personalized and efficient browsing experience. He acknowledges that Microsoft continuously tweaks its approach, which might occasionally prompt Edge's reappearance, but with the configurations discussed, users can maintain a relatively Edge-free environment.

Paul Thurott [12:30]: "Microsoft moves the goalposts from time to time, but with the right setup, you can enjoy a seamless Windows experience without Edge dictating your browsing habits."

Paul concludes by encouraging listeners to experiment with the settings and utilities mentioned, promising that persistence will lead to a cleaner, more controlled system setup.

Key Takeaways:

• Default Browser Configuration: Properly set your preferred browser as default through Windows Settings.
• Third-Party Utilities: Use tools like Ms. Edge Direct and WindToys to intercept or remove Edge's system-level activities.
• Manage Startup Processes: Disable Edge from running at startup and turn off Startup Boost to prevent background activity.
• Enhance Privacy: Install privacy-focused extensions such as Privacy Badger and AdBlock Plus across all browsers.
• Stay Updated: Be prepared for occasional prompts from Microsoft and adjust settings as needed to maintain your preferred setup.

This episode provides a comprehensive guide for Windows 11 users seeking to minimize or eliminate Microsoft Edge's dominance, offering practical solutions and expert insights to tailor the browsing experience to individual preferences.