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
If the normal ways to reset Microsoft Edge haven’t fixed your problems, you can do a hard reset by deleting its local data folder (where Edge stores your personal information). This process will remove all your settings, history, and cookies, giving you a completely fresh start with the browser.
- 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.
Does resetting Edge remove my saved passwords?
No. If you are signed into your Microsoft account and have sync enabled, your passwords are saved in the cloud. Once you sign back in after the reset, your passwords will automatically sync back to your browser. If you are not signed in, please export them first.
Why does Edge keep reverting to old settings after a reset?
This often happens because your Microsoft account syncs your old settings back to the browser as soon as you sign in. To fix this, turn off sync before resetting, or check for malicious extensions and registry policies that might be forcing the browser to retain old, unwanted configurations.
Summary
Resetting Microsoft Edge can fix problems by clearing out old or bad data, and you can do this using the browser’s reset button, Windows’ repair tool, or by manually deleting the User Data folder.
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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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