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Windows 113 min

How to Change Default Browser on Windows 11

Set Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or any browser as the default link opener.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

Windows default browser assignment has become progressively more granular, meaning changing the "browser default" doesn't automatically redirect all web-related file types — you may also need to manually reassign .htm, .html, .pdf, and web URL protocols (http, https) to your preferred browser individually in Settings > Apps > Default Apps. Microsoft Edge often reasserts itself as the default for specific file types after major Windows updates, so it's worth double-checking after major OS upgrades. On Windows 11, the default browser can be set globally in Default Apps > search for your preferred browser and click the entry to reassign all associated protocols at once.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps. Click or search for Web browser and select your preferred browser from the list.
  2. 2Open a link from an email or document to confirm it opens in the newly set browser.

Still Not Working?

Try these if the steps above didn't help.

Verify the Fix

Confirm everything is fully working before closing this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Windows 11 have a built-in way to change default browser?
Yes. Windows 11 includes a native option to change default browser without installing third-party software. Follow the Quick Steps above for the exact location in the settings menu.
How long does it take to change default browser on Windows 11?
Most users complete this in about 3 min. Complex cases that require troubleshooting or a restart may take a few extra minutes.
Is it safe to change default browser on Windows 11?
Yes — this is a standard Windows 11 operation. Follow the steps exactly as written, particularly any warnings shown in red or amber banners at the top of this guide.
What should I do if change default browser doesn't work on Windows 11?
Follow the Still Not Working section above for targeted fallback steps. As a final resort, install any pending OS updates and restart the device before trying again — most software issues resolve after an update.

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