Microsoft Edge comes preinstalled as the default browser in Windows 11, but many users prefer Google Chrome for its speed, extensions, and familiar interface. If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 and find that every link opens in Edge instead of Chrome, you’re not alone.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to make Chrome the default browser in Windows 11, explore alternative methods, and answer common questions so you can browse the web the way you want.
🔑 Key Takeaways
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Windows 11 initially made changing default browsers more complex, but updates have simplified the process.
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You can set Chrome as your default browser through Settings, or directly inside Google Chrome.
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Changing defaults ensures all web links, PDFs, and HTML files open in Chrome instead of Edge.
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Administrator access may be required to make system-wide changes.
Why Set Chrome as Your Default Browser in Windows 11?
Here are a few reasons you might want to switch:
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🌐 Cross-platform sync — Chrome syncs bookmarks, history, and extensions across devices.
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⚡ Performance — Many users find Chrome faster and more responsive.
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🔌 Extensions library — Chrome has the largest collection of browser add-ons.
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🔄 Google ecosystem — Seamlessly integrates with Gmail, Drive, and other Google services.
In short, if you already use Google services, Chrome makes browsing feel more connected and personalized.
Method 1: Set Chrome as Default Browser via Settings
This is the most reliable way to ensure Chrome becomes your default.
Steps:
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Install Chrome (if you haven’t already) from google.com/chrome.
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Apps > Default apps.
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Scroll down and select Google Chrome.
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Click Set default (on recent Windows 11 builds, this sets Chrome for all web-related file types).
✅ Done! Chrome is now your default browser.
Method 2: Set Chrome as Default from Within Chrome
Google makes it easy to set Chrome as the default right from the browser.
Steps:
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Open Google Chrome.
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Click the three-dot menu (top-right).
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Go to Settings > Default browser.
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Click Make default.
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Windows will redirect you to Default apps settings → confirm Chrome.
This method is quick and beginner-friendly.
Method 3: Manually Assign File Types and Protocols
For more control, you can assign Chrome to handle specific file types and links.
Steps:
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Open Settings > Apps > Default apps.
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Scroll down and click Google Chrome.
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Instead of “Set default,” scroll through the list of file types (like .htm, .html, HTTP, HTTPS).
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Click each one and select Google Chrome.
This ensures all types of web content open in Chrome—not Edge.
Method 4: Use “Set Defaults by App”
Windows also provides a bulk option to switch defaults:
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Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps.
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Scroll down and select Set defaults by app.
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Choose Google Chrome.
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Click Set default for all web-related types.
This saves time compared to changing each file type manually.
Troubleshooting: Why Won’t Chrome Stay Default?
Some users report Chrome switching back to Edge. Here’s why it may happen:
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🔒 Windows Updates sometimes reset defaults.
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🛠️ Edge policies (common in work or school PCs) force Edge as default.
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⏳ Incomplete setup — you may have missed assigning some file types.
Fixes:
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Re-check Settings > Default apps.
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Run Chrome as administrator and set default again.
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If on a work PC, ask IT if browser restrictions are enforced.
Comparison: Chrome vs. Edge on Windows 11
| Feature | Chrome | Edge (Default) |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Fast, but resource-heavy | Fast, optimized for Windows |
| Extensions | Largest collection available | Limited compared to Chrome |
| Cross-device sync | Excellent (Google ecosystem) | Works best with Microsoft |
| Privacy controls | Standard, customizable | Built-in tracking prevention |
| PDF handling | Good, but basic | Advanced PDF annotation |
Best Practices for a Smooth Transition
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Import your bookmarks and passwords from Edge to Chrome (Chrome prompts you automatically).
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Enable sync with your Google account for seamless access across devices.
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Keep Edge installed—some Windows features, like certain system links, may still open in Edge.
Conclusion
Switching to Chrome as your default browser in Windows 11 is straightforward. You can do it through Settings, directly inside Chrome, or by customizing file associations.
Once done, every link and document will open in Chrome, giving you a faster, more personalized browsing experience.
Remember: Microsoft may still push Edge in some cases, but with the steps above, you’ll have Chrome as your main gateway to the web.
❓ FAQs About Setting Chrome as Default Browser in Windows 11
1. Can I uninstall Microsoft Edge after switching to Chrome?
Not easily—Edge is built into Windows 11. But you can just ignore it once Chrome is default.
2. Will making Chrome default affect my Microsoft apps?
No, apps like Outlook or Teams still work, but links will open in Chrome instead of Edge.
3. Do I need administrator rights to change the default browser?
Yes, on some devices (especially work/school PCs). On personal PCs, a standard user can often change it.
4. Why do some links still open in Edge even after switching?
Windows uses a system protocol called microsoft-edge:// for certain links. You’ll need a third-party tool (like EdgeDeflector) to override this.
5. Is Chrome better than Edge on Windows 11?
It depends—Chrome has better extensions and sync, while Edge is lighter on resources and more integrated with Windows.