Installing a browser does not always make it the default. Windows controls web links, HTTP/HTTPS, and HTML files through Default apps, and updates can sometimes reset those choices.
These steps apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Does This Affect You?
Use this if links open in Edge or another unwanted browser even though your preferred browser is installed.
Set the Default Browser on Windows 11
- Open Settings > Apps > Default apps.
- Search for your browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Opera, or Edge, and open it.
- If a Set default button appears, click it.
- If there is no single button, set .HTM, .HTML, HTTP, and HTTPS to your preferred browser one by one.
- Close Settings and test a link.
Set the Default Browser on Windows 10
- Open Settings > Apps > Default apps.
- Find Web browser.
- Click the current browser.
- Choose the browser you prefer from the installed apps list.
- Close Settings.
Extra Browser Default Notes
Browser Make Default Buttons
Most browsers include a “make default” button in their own settings. It usually just opens the same Windows Default apps screen, which is normal.
Default Keeps Returning to Edge
Major Windows updates can reset default app associations. If this happens only on a work or school PC, company policy may be enforcing a browser choice.
Only Some Links Use the New Browser
Restart the PC after changing defaults. If one app still opens another browser, check that app’s own link-opening settings.
Per-User Setting
Default browsers are set per Windows account, so each user on a shared PC needs to choose their own.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Change your default web browser in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Change default apps in Windows
- Google Chrome Help: Set Chrome as your default web browser