Microsoft Edge is the default browser on Windows 11, and while it’s fast and feature-rich, you may have noticed it continues running even after you close it. This background activity can consume system resources, slow down startup time, and drain your battery if you’re on a laptop.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background on Windows 11. We’ll explore multiple methods so you can choose the one that fits your needs.
Why Microsoft Edge Runs in the Background
Microsoft Edge uses background processes to:
- Keep notifications and updates active.
- Preload web pages for faster launch.
- Sync extensions and data in real time.
While this can improve performance, it isn’t always necessary — especially if you don’t use Edge as your main browser.
Method 1: Disable Background Extensions and Apps in Edge Settings
The easiest method is to turn off background apps directly in Edge.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Click the three dots (…) in the top-right corner.
- Go to Settings → System and Performance.
- Toggle Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed to Off.
This prevents Edge from running extensions or apps after you close it.
Method 2: Turn Off Startup Boost
Edge’s Startup Boost feature preloads parts of the browser in memory for faster startup.
- Open Edge Settings.
- Navigate to System and Performance.
- Find Startup boost and toggle it Off.
This will stop Edge from loading automatically at startup.
Method 3: Disable Edge from Startup Apps
You can also stop Edge from launching with Windows using Task Manager.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup apps tab.
- Look for Microsoft Edge.
- Select it and click Disable.
Method 4: Change Background App Permissions in Windows Settings
Windows lets you control background permissions for apps, including Edge.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Privacy & security → App permissions → Background apps.
- Find Microsoft Edge in the list.
- Turn Background apps permissions to Never.
This completely blocks Edge from running when closed.
Method 5: Use Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise Users)
If you’re on Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can use Group Policy to stop Edge background processes.
- Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter. - Navigate to:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Microsoft Edge
- Double-click Allow Microsoft Edge to pre-launch at Windows startup.
- Select Disabled.
- Apply the settings and restart your PC.
💡 This method is more permanent and prevents background loading system-wide.
Method 6: Disable Edge Tasks with Task Scheduler
Edge sometimes schedules tasks to run automatically. You can disable them:
- Press Windows + R, type
taskschd.msc, and press Enter. - Go to Task Scheduler Library → Microsoft → Edge.
- Right-click tasks like MicrosoftEdgeUpdateTaskMachineCore.
- Choose Disable for each one.
Method 7: Use Registry Editor (Advanced)
If you’re comfortable editing the registry, you can stop Edge background activity this way.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge
- Create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named:
BackgroundModeEnabled
- Set its value to
0. - Restart your computer.
⚠️ Caution: Editing the registry can affect system stability. Back up your registry before making changes.
Method 8: Stop Edge Processes Manually (Temporary)
If you just need a quick solution:
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
- Find Microsoft Edge under Processes.
- Right-click and choose End Task.
This is a temporary fix — Edge may start again later.
Pros and Cons of Disabling Edge Background Processes
| Approach | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Edge Settings | Easy, quick, reversible | May not stop all processes |
| Task Manager | Instant solution | Temporary only |
| Group Policy/Registry | Permanent solution | Advanced, riskier to edit |
Troubleshooting Tips
- After making changes, restart your PC to ensure they take effect.
- If Edge still runs, check for scheduled tasks or re-enable settings temporarily to troubleshoot.
- Keep Edge updated — some updates may reset settings.
Conclusion
Stopping Microsoft Edge from running in the background on Windows 11 is simple once you know where to look. By disabling background apps, turning off startup boost, and adjusting Windows permissions, you can free up resources and speed up your PC.
Choose the method that fits your technical comfort level. For most users, turning off background extensions and startup boost is enough — power users may prefer Group Policy or registry edits for a complete shutdown.
FAQs
1. Will disabling Edge background processes affect performance?
No, it usually improves system performance by freeing memory and CPU resources.
2. Can I re-enable background apps later?
Yes — just go back to Edge settings or Windows settings and toggle them back on.
3. Does this stop Edge updates?
No, Edge will still update automatically unless you disable update tasks in Task Scheduler.
4. Is it safe to edit the registry for this?
Yes, as long as you follow the steps carefully and back up your registry first.
5. Can I completely uninstall Microsoft Edge?
Not easily — Microsoft Edge is integrated into Windows 11, but you can disable most of its background activity using the steps above.