If you’ve recently acquired a new Windows computer and noticed Microsoft Edge pre-installed, you might be curious about its capabilities. Is it a secure and reliable web browser that prioritizes your online safety? Can you personalize it to your liking, much like other popular browsers? What happened to the familiar Internet Explorer? Rest assured, you’re not alone in having these questions. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know to effectively utilize Microsoft Edge.
What is Microsoft Edge?
Microsoft Edge is a cross-platform web browser developed by Microsoft. Similar to its prominent competitors, Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, Edge empowers you to browse websites, save your favorite pages, manage your email, connect on social media, and stream YouTube videos. While Edge was initially launched in 2015, it wasn’t until 2018 that Microsoft announced a significant shift. They redesigned Edge as a Chromium-based browser, which also enabled seamless usage on macOS. In 2020, this newer version of Edge became publicly available, and Microsoft discontinued security support for the original version, now known as Microsoft Edge Legacy. Edge was intended to succeed Internet Explorer 11, although both browsers coexisted for a couple of years. In June 2022, Microsoft officially ceased support for Internet Explorer and has since pre-installed Microsoft Edge on newer Windows operating systems.
While Google Chrome still commands almost 65% of the global market share for desktop browsers as of July 2023, according to StatCounter, Microsoft Edge is rapidly gaining ground, approaching nearly 14% of the share. With its increasing popularity and widespread adoption, familiarizing yourself with Edge is a worthwhile endeavor.
Navigating the Interface
Microsoft Edge boasts an interface that closely resembles other popular web browsers. At the top, you’ll find the address bar, which functions as a web search bar, a toolbar containing buttons for Back, Home, and Refresh, and tabs for managing open websites. While simply entering a URL in the address bar to access your preferred sites is straightforward, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the settings, security features, customization options, and other functionalities that Edge offers.
Making Edge Your Default Browser
While not mandatory, if you’re eager to fully embrace Microsoft Edge, consider making it your default browser. This simple change can be easily reversed later if you choose to revert to Chrome or Firefox. Once set as default, any links clicked in emails or applications will automatically open in Microsoft Edge.
Prioritizing Privacy and Security
When using a new web browser, it’s essential to allocate time to reviewing and adjusting its privacy and security settings. Edge offers unique features that distinguish it from its competitors. To access these settings, click the Settings and more button in the top toolbar and select Privacy, search, and services from the left-hand menu.
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Tracking Prevention:
Edge empowers you to control the level of website tracking you allow. Ensure the Tracking prevention toggle is enabled and select your preferred level of tracking – Basic, Balanced, or Strict.*
Security:
You can activate Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, block unwanted applications, enhance security with additional safeguards, and utilize the Microsoft Edge Secure Network. Each category within the Security section provides detailed information to aid in your decision-making regarding settings.Beyond Privacy and Security
Beyond the settings mentioned above, explore other options within this section to manage browsing data, configure “do not track” requests, personalize your experience and advertising preferences, and manage Microsoft Edge web services. Select Cookies and site permissions from the left-hand menu to customize how Edge handles cookies and site data, and to manage permissions for features like camera access, microphone usage, pop-up windows, intrusive ads, and automatic media playback.
Comparing Edge to Chrome
If you’re interested in a comparative analysis of Edge versus Chrome regarding security and other features, a comprehensive comparison article is available on our website.
Customization Options
Like other browsers, Edge provides a range of customization options. While some users may prefer to apply colorful themes or use custom fonts for aesthetic enhancements, others prioritize productivity features like a favorites bar or a screenshot button. Fortunately, Edge accommodates both preferences.
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Appearance:
Click the Settings and more button, then choose Appearance from the left-hand menu. You’ll discover a wide array of customization options. Choose a theme, personalize the toolbar, adjust context menus, and configure the browser window to your liking.*
Start, Home, and New Tabs:
Navigate to the Start, home, and new tabs section to select Start and New Tab pages, display or hide the Home button, and customize its associated page.Add-ins and Extensions
If you’re familiar with Google Chrome, you know that its Web Store is teeming with extensions that extend browser functionality. Rest assured, Edge offers an equally extensive collection of add-ins (extensions) to enhance your browsing experience. Manage your add-ins by clicking the Extensions button and selecting Manage extensions. You’ll see a list of installed add-ins, with options to view details, disable, or remove them.
Introducing Microsoft Copilot
Google Chrome users enjoy the benefits of Gemini, while Microsoft Edge users have access to Copilot. Fortunately, Microsoft Copilot is seamlessly integrated into the Edge browser, making artificial intelligence readily available to all users. Simply click the Copilot button in the top toolbar to reveal a side panel. Utilize the Chat tab to type questions, upload images, add screenshots, or dictate requests. The Compose tab empowers you to have AI generate paragraphs, emails, blog posts, or lists of ideas. Copilot also assists in summarizing content, creating themes, searching the web, and maintaining online safety.
Internet Explorer Mode for Legacy Websites
For users who occasionally encounter websites that require Internet Explorer 11, Microsoft Edge includes Internet Explorer Mode. However, Microsoft recommends using this mode only when necessary. To access Internet Explorer Mode, visit the desired website, then click Settings and more, and choose Reload in Internet Explorer Mode. To exit this mode, click Leave in the top bar of the window or close the tab and reopen a new one.
Exploring Additional Features
While the aforementioned information provides a foundation for using Microsoft Edge, there’s much more to discover. Click Settings and more, and navigate through the options on the left to explore other features, including:
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System and performance:
Configure startup options and media enhancements.*
Phone and other devices:
Manage downloads and synchronize Edge with your smartphone.*
Profiles:
Customize Microsoft account preferences, passwords, and payment information.Troubleshooting and Resources
If you encounter any issues while using Microsoft Edge, don’t immediately abandon it and switch back to Chrome or Firefox. Instead, consult our resource on common Edge problems and their solutions. Remember that any web browser can experience occasional issues.
Embracing the Power of Edge
Microsoft Edge has emerged as a formidable and versatile web browser, offering a wealth of features, security enhancements, and customization options. By familiarizing yourself with its capabilities, you’ll discover a powerful and reliable tool that empowers you to navigate the online world confidently.
