How to Disable Edge Tabs in Alt + Tab on Windows 11
Here’s how to hide Microsoft Edge tabs when you use the Alt+Tab shortcut in Windows 11.
Open Windows Settings, go to System, then Multitasking. Under the Alt+Tab section, select “Open windows only” from the dropdown menu. This hides Edge tabs from your Alt+Tab switcher.
Why do this?
The Alt+Tab keyboard shortcut normally shows both open programs and recent browser tabs. This combined list can appear cluttered and difficult to sort. Modifying this setting makes the Alt+Tab list show only active programs, improving focus.
What happens when done?
Disabling Edge tabs in Alt+Tab on Windows 11 stops the switcher from showing your Microsoft Edge browser tabs. The switcher will only show your open program windows. This change makes switching between apps faster by removing web pages from view. You can make this change in your Multitasking settings.
To change these settings, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app on your computer. You can do this by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard, or by clicking Start and then Settings.
- In the System menu, click on the Multitasking button.
- Find the section labeled Alt+Tab. Click the drop-down menu next to it.
- Select Open windows only from the list.
You can now close the Settings app. Your changes take effect immediately.
Summary
Windows 11 shows your most recent Microsoft Edge tabs in the Alt+Tab switcher by default, typically the last 5. You can easily turn this off in the Multitasking settings. Once disabled, the switcher will only show your open apps, creating a cleaner view so you can quickly jump between your programs.- Windows 11 defaults to showing your 5 most recent Edge tabs when you press Alt+Tab.
- You can change this behavior in the Multitasking section of your Windows Settings.
- Choosing Open windows only removes the clutter of browser tabs from your task switcher.
- This setting is perfect for users who want a simple and clean way to switch between apps.
Why does the alt tab show all browser tabs?
This is because of a recent update, titled Redstone 5, which changes the behavior of Alt+Tab to include Windows 10 tabs and browser tabs. Follow our steps below if you wish to disable this and restore the old Alt+Tab view.
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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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