Microsoft Edge includes a feature called Browse with Copilot. It allows the AI assistant to help you by clicking, typing, or navigating on websites for you. You might want to control which websites Copilot is allowed to interact with to keep your browsing private and secure.
Why use this?
You use this to keep your data safe. It prevents the AI from interacting with sensitive websites like your bank or private work portals.
What happens when done?
Once you set your lists, Copilot will either automatically interact with allowed sites or be strictly blocked from touching sites on your block list.
Managing Sites via Settings
You can manage these permissions directly in your browser settings.
1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the Settings and more (three dots) menu and select Settings.
3. Select Copilot and AI on the left, then click Browse with Copilot.
4. Click Manage what URLs can or cannot be accessed by Browse with Copilot.
5. Use the Add buttons to include specific websites in your allow or block lists. You can also move sites between lists using the three-dot menu next to each entry.
Administrative Configuration (For IT Admins)
If you manage computers for a business, you can set these rules for all users using Group Policy (GPO) or the Registry. This ensures consistent security across your organization.
Registry Configuration (Requires Admin Privileges)
You can set these policies by modifying the Windows Registry. Warning: Incorrect changes can cause system issues.
To set the allow list, navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge and create a new string value named BrowsingWithCopilotAllowList. Add your URLs separated by commas.
To set the block list, create a string value named BrowsingWithCopilotBlockList in the same path.
Group Policy (GPO)
1. Open the Group Policy Management Console. Requires Admin Privileges.
2. Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Microsoft Edge.
3. Locate Configure the allow list for Browse with Copilot or Configure the block list for Browse with Copilot.
4. Enable the policy and input your desired URL patterns.
Summary
You can control Copilot’s access to websites through the Edge settings menu for personal use or via GPO for business environments. Always prioritize security by blocking sensitive sites and only allowing trusted domains. For more technical details, refer to the official Microsoft Edge policy documentation.
Can users override the block list set by IT administrators?
No, if an administrator enforces the block list via Group Policy or Registry settings, the end-user cannot override these restrictions within the browser settings. The policy is locked to ensure organizational security standards are maintained across all managed devices.
Does the block list apply to all profiles in Microsoft Edge?
Yes, when policies are applied at the machine level via GPO or the registry, the block list applies to all user profiles on that specific computer. This ensures that no matter which account is signed in, the restricted sites remain inaccessible to Copilot.
How do I verify if the policy has been applied successfully?
You can verify the policy by typing edge://policy into the address bar of your browser. This page displays all active policies currently applied to your instance of Microsoft Edge. Look for the BrowsingWithCopilot entries to confirm your configured lists are active.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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