To change internet settings within Microsoft Edge, you primarily manage settings within the browser itself, which then interacts with your overall network configuration. Here's how:
Accessing Microsoft Edge Settings
- Click the "Settings and more" button. This is typically represented by three horizontal dots ( ... ) located in the upper-right corner of the Edge window.
- In the dropdown menu, select "Settings".
Key Settings to Adjust
Once in the settings menu, you can adjust various aspects of how Edge interacts with the internet. Here are some commonly modified settings:
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On startup: Controls what Edge displays when you first open it. Options include opening a new tab page, continuing where you left off, or opening specific pages. To change this, navigate to "On startup" within the settings menu.
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Homepage: Determines which page opens when you click the home button (if enabled). To configure this, look for the "Show home button" option under "Appearance".
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Search engine: Sets the default search engine used in the address bar. Go to "Privacy, search, and services", then scroll down to the "Address bar and search" section to change your preferred search engine.
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Privacy settings: Includes options to clear browsing data (history, cookies, cache), manage permissions for websites (location, microphone, camera), and configure tracking prevention. These settings are found under "Privacy, search, and services".
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Cookies and site permissions: Provides granular control over how websites can use cookies and access various device features. Navigate to "Cookies and site permissions" in the settings menu. You can allow or block cookies, manage permissions for specific sites, and more.
Clearing Browsing Data
Regularly clearing your browsing data can improve performance and protect your privacy. Here's how:
- Go to "Settings" > "Privacy, search, and services".
- Under the "Clear browsing data" section, click "Choose what to clear".
- Select the types of data you want to clear (browsing history, cookies, cached images and files, etc.).
- Choose a time range.
- Click "Clear now".
Syncing Settings
Edge allows you to sync your settings across multiple devices. To enable syncing:
- Click on your profile picture in the upper-right corner of the Edge window.
- If you're not already signed in, sign in with your Microsoft account.
- Once signed in, click on "Sync" to manage which settings are synchronized (e.g., favorites, passwords, history, extensions).
Addressing Connection Issues
If you are experiencing general internet connectivity problems, troubleshooting your network connection may be required. This often involves checking your Wi-Fi connection, router settings, and potentially contacting your internet service provider (ISP). These settings are outside of Microsoft Edge and are part of your operating system settings.
