How to Enable or Disable Browse with Copilot in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11
Want to control the AI-powered web help in Microsoft Edge? Here’s how to enable or disable Browse with Copilot on Windows 11.
Browse with Copilot is an artificial intelligence tool built into Microsoft Edge. It’s designed to automate tasks right inside your web browser. This tool can work with web pages, doing things like filling out forms or clicking links for you.
This feature uses AI to make your browsing smoother, handling repetitive or tedious online tasks for you. For instance, it can help you complete signup forms quickly without typing everything manually.
When it was introduced, this capability acted like a virtual assistant to boost your efficiency with everyday web tasks in Edge. If you enable it, Copilot can carry out commands on any webpage. Disabling it stops Copilot from performing any automated actions.
Navigate to Edge Settings, then Copilot and AI, and toggle “Enable Browse with Copilot” on or off. You can also adjust permission levels like Light, Balanced, or Strict. Administrator privileges are needed to manage this setting for all users via the Registry Editor.
Prerequisites
Before you can browse with Copilot in Microsoft Edge on Windows 11, make sure you have the latest version of the browser installed. This feature generally works for most users, but some advanced options might need a specific subscription or could be restricted by your workplace’s IT department.
Turn On or Off Browse with Copilot for Current User
You can easily turn browse with Copilot on or off for just your account in Microsoft Edge settings.
2. Click the Settings and more (Alt+F) 3-dots menu and select Settings.
3. Click Copilot and AI in the left pane, then select Browse with Copilot.
4. Toggle Enable Browse with Copilot to On or Off.
5. Choose your preferred permission level: Light, Balanced, or Strict.
Enable or Disable for All Users (Administrator Required)
To control browse with Copilot for everyone on your Windows 11 PC, you need admin rights and must use the Registry Editor.
- Press ⊞ Win+R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\CLASSES\EdgeThis is the folder where Edge policies are stored. - If the Edge folder doesn’t exist, right-click Microsoft and create a new folder called Edge.
4. Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it AllowBrowsingWithCopilot.
5. Double-click the value. Set it to 1 to enable or 0 to disable.
Privacy and Security Implications
When you use browse with Copilot, it shares some info to work, such as taking screenshots of your open tabs.
Summary
Managing browse with Copilot is straightforward, letting you choose settings for yourself in Edge or for all users via the Registry Editor if you’re an administrator. While convenient, always consider the privacy risks, especially regarding screenshots, and use the Strict setting for sensitive sites.
Does disabling Copilot in Edge affect Copilot in 🪟 Windows 11?
Does disabling Copilot in Edge affect Copilot in 🪟 Windows 11?
No. Disabling Browse with Copilot within the Microsoft Edge browser settings is independent of the main Copilot feature integrated into the Windows 11 taskbar. Your Windows-wide AI assistant will continue to function normally even if you restrict its ability to perform actions inside your browser tabs.
Is it safe to edit the Windows Registry to disable Copilot?
Editing the Windows Registry to manage Copilot settings, like disabling browse with Copilot, is generally safe if you follow the instructions precisely. It’s a common way to adjust system policies, but always double-check that you’re changing the correct registry path to avoid unintended issues.
Will disabling Copilot impact my Microsoft account sync settings?
No. Disabling the Browse with Copilot feature does not affect your Microsoft account sync settings. Your bookmarks, passwords, and browser history will continue to sync across your devices as usual. This setting only controls the AI’s permission to interact with and perform actions on the webpages you visit.
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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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