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Why are my links opening in Edge?

Published in Web Browsers 4 mins read

The most likely reason your links are opening in Microsoft Edge, even though you've set Chrome as your default browser, is that Edge is still set as the default program for handling specific file types or link protocols. This means that while Chrome is your general web browser, Edge might be configured to open particular types of links or files associated with web browsing.

Here's a more detailed breakdown and how to fix it:

Understanding Default Programs

Your computer uses "default programs" to determine which application should open a particular file type or handle a specific type of link (like a mailto: link for email). While you might have Chrome set as your default web browser, this doesn't automatically mean it's the default for everything web-related.

Why Edge Might Be the Default for Some Links

  • Protocol Handlers: Edge might be configured to handle specific protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, or even custom protocols.
  • File Associations: Certain file types commonly accessed through a browser, like .html, .htm, or .svg, could be associated with Edge.

How to Fix Links Opening in Edge (Setting Chrome as Default)

Here's how to ensure Chrome handles most, if not all, web-related links:

  1. Set Chrome as the Default Browser (If You Haven't Already):

    • Windows: Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps. Under "Web browser," select Google Chrome.
    • macOS: Go to System Preferences > General. Under "Default web browser," select Google Chrome.

  2. Configure Default Apps by Protocol or File Type (Windows): This is crucial if simply setting Chrome as the "Web browser" doesn't resolve the issue.

    • Open Control Panel. (Search for "Control Panel" in the Windows search bar.)
    • Click on Default Programs.
    • Click on Set your default programs.
    • Find Google Chrome in the list of programs.
    • Click on Choose defaults for this program. This will open a list of all the file types and protocols that Chrome can handle.
    • Select all the boxes for the file types and protocols you want Chrome to open. Pay close attention to .htm, .html, HTTP, and HTTPS.
    • Click Save.

  3. Consider Uninstalling or Disabling Edge (If the Problem Persists):

    • If you never use Edge, uninstalling it might be the simplest solution. However, uninstalling is sometimes not possible, as Edge is deeply integrated into Windows.
    • As an alternative, you can try disabling Edge. Note that disabling a core system component can sometimes lead to unexpected issues, so proceed with caution. Look up specific instructions for disabling Edge for your version of Windows.

  4. Check Third-Party Application Settings: Some applications (like email clients or document editors) have their own browser settings. Make sure these are also set to use Chrome.

Example Scenario

Imagine you click a link in an email. Even though Chrome is your default browser, the email program might be configured to open links specifically in Edge. You need to change the email program's settings, too.

Troubleshooting

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve conflicts in default program settings.
  • Check for updates: Ensure both Chrome and Windows are up to date, as updates often include fixes for default program handling.

By following these steps, you should be able to ensure that links consistently open in Chrome instead of Edge.

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