How to Backup and Restore Microsoft Edge

This guide shows you how to save and restore your Microsoft Edge data on Windows 10 or Windows 11.

Why Back Up Microsoft Edge?

Your browser holds your digital life. You have bookmarks, saved settings, and extensions that make your browsing easier. If your computer breaks or you buy a new one, you do not want to start from scratch. Backing up Microsoft Edge ensures you keep your personal setup. Why do this? It saves time and prevents data loss. What happens when done? You get a portable copy of your browser environment that you can move to any Windows PC.

Cloud Sync vs. Manual Backup

Microsoft offers a built-in sync feature. It connects your browser to your Microsoft Account (MSA) or Entra ID. This is the easiest way to keep data current across devices. However, manual backups are better for offline storage or when you want a physical snapshot of your data. If you use sync, go to Edge Sync Settings to manage what gets uploaded.

What Gets Backed Up?

Your manual backup includes:

• All browser settings
• Favorites and bookmarks
• User profiles
• Installed extensions

Important: Passwords are not included in this local folder. They are encrypted and tied to your account. You must export them separately or use the sync feature to move them.

Step-by-Step: How to Back Up Microsoft Edge

Step 1: Close Microsoft Edge Completely

Close Edge and all its tabs. If the browser is running, files will be locked and the backup will fail. What happens when done? The files become accessible for copying.

Step 2: Find Your Edge Folder

Open File Explorer. Copy and paste this path into the address bar:

C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Edge\User Data

Step 3: Copy Your Edge Folder

Right-click the User Data folder and select Copy. Paste it onto a USB drive or cloud storage. This folder contains your Chromium-based browser architecture data.

Step 4: Export Your Registry Settings

Requires Admin Privileges: Open the Registry Editor by typing “regedit” in the search bar. Navigate to this path:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Edge

Right-click the Edge folder and select Export. Save this as a .reg file. This saves your specific browser configuration.

How to Restore Microsoft Edge

Step 1: Restore the User Data Folder

On your new PC, close Edge. Navigate to the same path as in Step 2. Paste your backed-up User Data folder here. Choose to overwrite existing files if asked.

Step 2: Restore Registry Settings

Double-click your saved .reg file. Click Yes to confirm. This applies your old settings to the new browser installation.

Troubleshooting

If your passwords are missing, it is because they are stored in the Windows Credential Manager, not just the User Data folder. If you see errors while copying, ensure Edge is fully closed in the Task Manager. If you are moving from Windows 10 to 11, the folder structure remains the same, making migration seamless.

Summary

Backing up Microsoft Edge protects your bookmarks, extensions, and settings. By copying the User Data folder and exporting your registry keys, you create a complete snapshot of your browser. Why do this? To ensure a smooth transition to a new computer. What happens when done? You restore your files to the new PC, and your browser looks exactly like it did before. Remember to use the sync feature for passwords to avoid manual export issues.