Resetting Microsoft Edge to default settings on Windows 11 returns the browser to its original factory state.
This process clears your browsing data, including cookies and cache, and turns off all browser extensions.
Edge runs on version 118 or later in Windows 11. Resetting helps fix problems like slow performance, unwanted ads, or when the browser crashes unexpectedly.
While it removes settings and extensions, your saved websites and logged-in account details usually stay safe if you’re signed into your Microsoft account.
Open Microsoft Edge, go to Settings , then Reset settings, and select Restore settings to their default values. Click Reset to confirm. This clears cache, cookies, and disables extensions, restoring Edge to its original state.
How to Reset Microsoft Edge to Default Settings: The Standard Method
This is generally the safest way to fix most problems.
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Click the three dots (…) in the top-right corner.
- Go to Settings.
- Click Reset settings on the left.
- Select Restore settings to their default values.
- Click Reset to confirm.
Hard Reset by Deleting Local Data
A hard reset by deleting local data clears all stored information, settings, and browsing history when standard reset steps fail to fix problems in Microsoft Edge. This process deletes the folder where Edge saves your personal files on your computer, forcing the browser to rebuild a clean default profile the next time you open it.
- Close all Edge windows.
- Press Windows Key + R.
- Type
%localappdata%\Microsoft\Edge\User Dataand press Enter. - Find the Default folder and delete it.
- Open Edge again to let it create a fresh folder.
Resetting via PowerShell and Command Line
For advanced users, PowerShell (a powerful command-line interface for managing Windows) can be used to clear browser data. Requires Administrator Privileges:
- Right-click the Start button and select Terminal (Admin).
- Type
Get-AppxPackage *MicrosoftEdge* | Remove-AppxPackageand press Enter. - Restart your computer to reinstall the browser.
Repairing Edge via Windows Settings
Repairing Edge via Windows Settings: Windows 11 includes a built-in tool for repair. Requires Administrator Privileges:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Microsoft Edge.
- Click the three dots and select Modify.
- Click Repair.
Checking for Registry-Level Hijacks
Checking for Registry-Level Hijacks: If your settings are locked, you should check the registry (a central database for Windows settings and configurations). Requires Administrator Privileges:
- Press Windows Key + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. - Go to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge. - Delete any suspicious entries.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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