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How to Stop Microsoft Edge from Starting Automatically in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
May 28, 2026 Updated Jun 19, 2026 4 min read
Desktop computer auto-opening browser at sunrise
Desktop computer auto-opening browser at sunrise

You can stop Microsoft Edge from starting automatically in Windows 11 using Task Manager or Windows Settings.

Microsoft Edge, the default web browser for Windows 11, sometimes launches when a PC starts. Startup app settings control this automatic launching behavior.

This guide helps users control startup applications. Users will learn to disable Microsoft Edge's automatic launch, allowing computers to start with preferred applications.

⚡ Quick Answer

Disable automatic app restarts in Windows 11 Settings. Go to Accounts > Sign-in options and turn off “Automatically save my restartable apps when I sign out.” This prevents Edge and other apps from launching on startup.

Why Does Edge Start Automatically?

Microsoft Edge might start automatically on your Windows 11 PC because Windows tries to reopen apps you were using when you restart your computer, aiming to get you back to where you left off.

Users might want to control when Microsoft Edge opens. When the computer restarts after a power outage, some programs automatically reopen saved work. Microsoft Edge can also start automatically upon computer login. This automatic startup behavior may not be desired by all users who prefer to open the browser manually.

Windows has a setting to stop Microsoft Edge from starting automatically. This setting is not hidden. This guide shows the exact location of the setting and the steps required.

Step 1Go to Your Windows Sign-in Options

To stop Edge from starting automatically, you’ll need to find the Sign-in options in your Windows 11 Settings app.

  1. Open Windows Settings. You can do this in a couple of easy ways. The most common way is to click the Start button (the Windows logo, usually in the bottom-left corner) and then click the gear icon. Or, you can press the Windows key + I on your keyboard at the same time. This is a useful shortcut!
  2. Go to Accounts. Once the Settings window is open, look for the option called “Accounts”. It usually has a person icon next to it. Click on it.
  3. Find Sign-in Options. Inside the Accounts section, you will see a menu on the left side. Scroll down and click on “Sign-in options”. This is where you manage what loads when you log into your PC.
Windows 11 sign-in options tile for managing startup apps.
Windows 11 account sign-in options tile for wake settings.
💡Tip
If you forget how to open Settings, type “Settings” into the Start menu search bar. Windows will usually show it as the top result.

Step 2Control Apps That Restart Automatically

In the Sign-in options, you need to find the setting that lets you control which apps restart automatically when you log in.

  1. Find the “Automatically save my restartable apps…” setting. Scroll down the list of options on the Sign-in options page. Look for a setting that sounds like the title above. Microsoft might change the exact words a little, but it’s about apps that can reopen automatically.
  2. Turn the setting OFF. You will see a switch next to this option. If it says “On”, click it to change it to “Off”.
Restartable apps setting in Windows 11 to stop Edge auto-start.
Restartable apps setting in Windows 11 to stop Edge auto-start.
⚠️Warning
The "Allow Windows to remember my apps" setting manages automatic app restarts in Windows 11. When the "Allow Windows to remember my apps" setting is active, Windows records running apps upon user sign-out or computer shutdown. Windows then reopens these recorded apps at the next sign-in. This means Microsoft Edge reopens if the browser was open during the previous session.

Reference:

Summary

You can stop Microsoft Edge from starting automatically in Windows 11 by adjusting your sign-in settings, giving you a clean desktop right when you log in.

How do I disable Microsoft Edge autostart?

You can stop Microsoft Edge from starting automatically in Windows 11 using Task Manager or Windows Settings. Navigate to the Startup apps section in Settings, find Microsoft Edge, and toggle its switch to ‘Off’. Alternatively, in Task Manager, go to the ‘Startup’ tab, right-click Edge, and select ‘Disable’.

Is it okay to disable msedge on startup?

Yes, it’s generally okay to disable msedge on startup if you don’t want Microsoft Edge to launch automatically when you boot your PC. Disabling it only prevents it from opening at startup; you can still open and use Edge manually whenever you need it.

How to make Microsoft Edge stop auto opening?

To stop Microsoft Edge from auto-opening, access your Windows 11 Startup settings. Locate Microsoft Edge in the list of startup applications and switch its toggle to the ‘Off’ position. This prevents the browser from launching automatically every time you start your computer.

Why is Microsoft Edge set to open automatically on startup?

Microsoft Edge may be set to open automatically on startup to ensure a seamless user experience, particularly for apps that can resume your work. This feature aims to reopen applications with your previous session intact after a restart or unexpected shutdown.

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Richard

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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