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How to Add or Remove Sidebar in Microsoft Edge

Written by

Richard

Dec 6, 2022 Updated Aug 13, 2026 3 min read

How to Add or Remove Sidebar in Microsoft Edge

The Microsoft Edge sidebar is a built-in panel on the right side of your browser window that gives you quick access to tools like Copilot, games, and web apps without opening a new tab.

You can turn off this panel in Microsoft Edge version 120 and newer if you want more room to see webpages on smaller screens, or turn it back on whenever you need those shortcuts again.

⚡ Quick Answer

You can show or hide the sidebar in Microsoft Edge using the toggle switch in Settings under Appearance. Alternatively, click the small button at the top of the sidebar itself to quickly hide it.

How to Hide the Sidebar Using the Button

If the sidebar is visible, look for a small button at the top of the sidebar. Click this button to hide it quickly.

How to Show or Hide the Sidebar in Edge Settings

The Microsoft Edge sidebar can be shown or hidden directly within the browser’s settings menu. If the sidebar is missing or a cleaner look is preferred, managing it through Edge settings serves as the recommended method.

Open Microsoft Edge.
Click the three dots menu button (Settings and More) in the top right corner. Or use the keyboard shortcut Alt + F.
Select Settings from the menu.

micrsoft edge browser more option and settings

On the left side, click Appearance.

Look for the Customize toolbar section.
Find the toggle switch labeled Show sidebar.
Turn the toggle On to display the sidebar. Turn it Off to hide it.

microsoft edge settings show or hide sidebar button

How to Show or Hide the Sidebar Using the Registry

For advanced control over the Microsoft Edge sidebar, changing its visibility and behavior is possible using the Windows Registry Editor. This method works best when comfortable editing system files and specific adjustments to sidebar functions are required.

Advanced users can bypass the settings menu and configure the sidebar directly in the Windows Registry.

Open the Windows Registry on your computer.
Navigate to this location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge
If you don't see an Edge folder, right-click on the Microsoft folder and create a new subfolder called Edge.

microsoft edge show or hide sidebar via registry

Right-click in the empty space on the right side of the Edge folder.
Select New and then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Name the new key HubsSidebarEnabled.
Double-click the new key to open it.
In the Value data field, enter 1 to show the sidebar. Enter 0 to hide it.
Click OK to save.

microsoft edge show or hide sidebar via registry value data

Changes take effect immediately, though a browser restart may occasionally be required.

Summary

The Microsoft Edge sidebar can be managed using a few different methods, depending on whether a quick fix or more detailed control is needed. Options include using a toggle button, adjusting settings within Edge, or editing the Windows Registry for advanced changes.

Quick button: Click the button on the sidebar to hide it instantly.
Settings: Use Edge Settings and toggle the sidebar on or off under Appearance.
Registry: Advanced users can edit the Windows Registry to control the sidebar setting.

Choose whichever method works best for the workflow. Complete control over the sidebar's appearance remains available regardless of the chosen path.

Technically, the Sidebar will still exist, but in a different form. Microsoft is removing the ability to add apps to the Sidebar, and a future update to Edge will remove any apps users have already added. But the core experience provided by the Sidebar is being retired.

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Tags: #Microsoft Edge

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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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