Switching Back to Chrome as Your Default Browser in Windows 11
If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 and found that your default browser has mysteriously switched to Microsoft Edge, you’re not alone. While Microsoft’s new browser has improved significantly, many users prefer the features and familiarity of Google Chrome.
Unfortunately, Windows 11 doesn’t offer a simple, one-click solution to set your default browser like in previous versions. You’ll have to manually adjust the default apps for various file types. Here’s how to navigate the settings and get Chrome back as your default:
1. Accessing Default App Settings
- Start Search: Click the Start button in the bottom left corner of your taskbar and type "default apps".
- Select Default Apps: Click on the "Default apps" option that appears in the search results. This will open the Default Apps settings window.
2. Setting Chrome as the Default
The Default Apps window doesn’t have a single setting for "Default Browser." You’ll need to change the default app for specific file types:
- HTML (htm) Files:
- Within the "Default apps" window, scroll down to the "Choose default apps by file type" section.
- Locate "HTML (htm)" in the list.
- Click on the current default browser (likely Edge) and select "Google Chrome" from the dropdown.
- HTML (html) Files:
- Repeat the same process as above, but choose "HTML (html)" from the file type list.
- HTTP and HTTPS Files:
- Locate the file types "HTTP" and "HTTPS" and change their default app to Chrome.
Important Note: This process is not just for browser settings. Any app with file type associations (for example, photo editors, music players, etc.) will require similar manual adjustments within the Default Apps settings.
The Need for a More User-Friendly Solution
While Windows 11’s granular control over default apps allows for fine-tuning, it presents a hurdle for users who simply want to set their preferred browser quickly and easily. The one-click "set as default" option that existed in previous versions was a welcome feature, especially for commonly used applications.
Microsoft, we’re asking for a return to that simplified default app setting experience, especially for core applications like web browsers.
We acknowledge the benefits of granular control, but a simple "set as default" option for frequently used applications would greatly enhance user convenience.
Until then, the manual adjustment method detailed above is the only way to return Chrome (or any other app) to its rightful place as the default. This update will likely come as part of a future Windows update to simplify this often-overlooked user experience.
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