How to Install and Uninstall Microsoft Edge on Windows, Mac, and Chromebook

Microsoft Edge, the default browser on Windows, often sparks debate. While some users find it adequate, others have concerns about bloatware and privacy. With the integration of AI features like Copilot, Edge has become more deeply embedded in Windows, making removal more challenging. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to install and uninstall Microsoft Edge across different operating systems.

Installing Microsoft Edge

This section outlines the installation process for Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS.

Windows Installation

• Via Browser:

  1. Open a browser (Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Safari, etc.) and navigate to the official Microsoft Edge download page.
  2. Accept the license agreement, choose your language, and click Download.
  3. Run the downloaded .exe file and follow the installation wizard.
  4. Edge will launch automatically upon completion.

• Via Microsoft Store:

  1. Open the Microsoft Store.
  2. Search for “Microsoft Edge”.
  3. Click Install.

macOS Installation

1. Open a browser and visit the official Microsoft Edge download page for macOS.
2. Accept the license agreement and click Download.
3. Open the downloaded .dmg file and follow the prompts.
4. Enter your password when requested.
5. Optionally, empty the bin after installation.
6. Launch Edge from Launchpad.

Chromebook Installation

1. Open the Google Play Store.
2. Search for “Microsoft Edge”.
3. Click Install.
4. Click Open.
5. Choose whether to set Edge as your default browser.
6. Log into your Microsoft account (optional).
7. Select the “sizable” screen configuration for desktop use.

Uninstalling Microsoft Edge

Uninstalling Edge on Windows is more complex than on other platforms. It’s a default app and browser, with the uninstall option often grayed out. EU users might have more straightforward options, but users in the US and UK face limitations. While Microsoft advises against uninstalling Edge, several methods exist, each with potential risks.

Ignoring Microsoft Edge (Recommended)

The safest approach is to simply use another browser and set it as the default. You can remove Edge shortcuts from your desktop, Start menu, and taskbar, but the core files will remain. To change your default browser:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps.
2. Scroll down to “Set defaults by app”.
3. Select your preferred browser and click Manage.
4. Set your chosen browser as the default for all relevant protocols (e.g., HTTP, HTTPS).

Registry Editor Method (Windows)

This method aims to re-enable the uninstall option in Windows Settings. Results vary, and it may not fully remove the browser.

1. Open Registry Editor by searching for “regedit” in the Start menu.
2. Navigate to: ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREWOW6432NodeMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionUninstallMicrosoft Edge
3. Double-click NoRemove and set the value to 0.
4. Restart your computer.
5. Attempt to uninstall Edge through Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Microsoft Edge.

PowerShell Command Methods (Windows)

Two PowerShell methods exist, both requiring administrator privileges and carrying potential risks. Effectiveness is not guaranteed.

• Method 1 (Installer Modification):

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:Program Files (x86)MicrosoftEdgeApplication.
  2. Open the numbered folder with the most recent modification date.
  3. Locate the Installer folder, right-click, and Copy as path.
  4. Open PowerShell as administrator.
  5. Type cd followed by the copied path and press Enter.
  6. Run the following command: .setup.exe -uninstall -system-level -verbose-logging -force-uninstall

• Method 2 (App Package Removal):

  1. Open PowerShell as administrator.
  2. Run the command: get-appxpackage *edge*
  3. Copy the PackageFullName value.
  4. Run the command: remove-appxpackage <PackageFullName> (replace <PackageFullName> with the copied value).

Wise Program Uninstaller (Windows)

This third-party tool offers a “force uninstall” option. While potentially effective, exercise caution, as improper use can lead to system instability.

1. Download and install Wise Program Uninstaller from the official website.
2. Launch Wise Program Uninstaller.
3. Select Microsoft Edge and click Force Uninstall.
4. Carefully select and remove any remaining Edge-related files. Avoid deleting system files.
5. Restart your computer.

Preventing Edge Reinstallation (Windows)

After uninstalling Edge, you can take steps to prevent its automatic reinstallation.

1. Open Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoft.
3. Create a new key named “EdgeUpdate”.
4. Inside “EdgeUpdate”, create another key named “DoNotUpdateToEdgeWithChromium”.
5. Set the value of “DoNotUpdateToEdgeWithChromium” to 0.
6. Restart your computer.

Conclusion

While installing Microsoft Edge is straightforward, uninstalling it on Windows can be challenging due to its system integration. Carefully consider the risks associated with each method. The safest approach is to simply use an alternative browser and configure it as your default. If you choose to uninstall, creating a system restore point beforehand is highly recommended.