How to Change the Default Browser in Windows 11

When you set up a new Windows 11 installation, Microsoft configures Microsoft Edge as your default web browser for all internet links, HTML documents, and search queries.

If you prefer using Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Brave, or Vivaldi, Windows 11 makes it simple to set your preferred browser system-wide. Here is the step-by-step walkthrough.

Method 1: Set Default Browser in Windows 11 Settings (One-Click)

1. Open Settings on your PC (press Windows Key + I).
2. Click Apps in the left sidebar, then click Default apps.
3. In the search box under Set defaults for applications, type the name of your desired browser (e.g., Google Chrome or Firefox).
4. Click on your browser from the list.
5. At the top of the screen, click the button labeled Set default.
6. Windows will instantly assign .htm, .html, HTTP, and HTTPS web protocols to your chosen browser.

Method 2: Set Default Directly From Within Your Browser

Most modern browsers include an automated shortcut that triggers Windows 11 settings:

In Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome, click the Three Dots Menu, and click Settings.
2. In the left menu, click Default browser.
3. Click Make default. Windows Settings will launch directly to the confirmation screen.

In Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox, click the Three Lines Menu, and select Settings.
2. On the General tab, under Startup, click Make Default....

How to Set Default for Specific File Types (PDFs, WebP, SVG)

If you want Chrome for web links but prefer Microsoft Edge or Adobe Acrobat for opening PDF documents:

1. In Settings > Apps > Default apps, search for the file extension (e.g., .pdf).
2. Click on the current default application.
3. Select your preferred PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat or Chrome) and click Set default.