Reset Microsoft Edge to Default Settings – Easy Guide With Pictures

Reset Microsoft Edge Confirm reset 4

If Microsoft Edge has become slow, keeps crashing, or behaves strangely, resetting it to its default settings can often fix the problem. A reset restores Edge to its factory state, removing custom settings, unwanted extensions, and corrupted data. It’s a simple and effective way to resolve browser errors or performance issues, especially if you suspect malware or unwanted software has modified your settings.

Microsoft Edge logo

What Happens When You Reset Microsoft Edge?

Resetting Microsoft Edge will revert all browser settings to their original defaults. Here’s what changes when you perform a reset:

  • The default search engine is reset to the original setting.
  • The homepage button is hidden, and any custom homepage URL is removed.
  • Startup tabs are cleared. Edge will open with a new tab or continue where you left off, depending on your settings.
  • The New Tab page returns to the default layout unless managed by an extension.
  • Pinned tabs are unpinned.
  • Content and site permissions are reset to default.
  • Cookies, cache, and site data are cleared.
  • Extensions and themes are disabled.

These changes give you a clean browsing environment, free of conflicts or unwanted modifications, while your saved passwords, bookmarks, and browsing history remain intact.

How to Reset Microsoft Edge to Default Settings

You can quickly reset Microsoft Edge by typing edge://settings/resetProfileSettings in the address bar, then pressing Enter. On the Reset page, click Reset to restore Edge to its default settings.

Alternatively, you can follow the steps below to manually reset Microsoft Edge to its factory defaults:

  1. Click the three dots in the top-right corner and then click on “Settings”.

    In the top right corner, click on Microsoft Edge’s main menu button, represented by three horizontal dots. When the drop-down menu appears, click on “Settings“.
    Click the three dots in the top-right corner and then click on Settings

  2. Click on “Reset Settings”.

    On the left side of the window, click on “Reset Settings“.
    Click Reset Settings option

  3. Click on “Restore settings to their default values”.

    In the main window, click on “Restore settings to their default values“.
    Select Restore settings to their default values

  4. Click “Reset”.

    A confirmation dialog should now be displayed, detailing the components that will be restored to their default state should you continue with the reset process. To complete the restoration process, click on the “Reset” button.
    Click Reset to reset your browser
    Microsoft Edge will now erase all your personal data, browsing history, and disable all installed extensions. Your bookmarks, though, will remain intact and still be accessible.

That’s it — Microsoft Edge has now been restored to its default configuration. To improve your browsing safety, consider installing a trusted ad blocker such as AdGuard to block intrusive or malicious ads.

If Edge still isn’t performing correctly after the reset, the issue may be caused by unwanted software or a malicious extension installed through browser policies. In that case, try these next steps: