Unleashing the Hidden Powers of Windows 10: Say Goodbye to Microsoft Edge

Windows 10 is a powerful and versatile operating system that many users have yet to fully explore. While its features are robust, one element that continues to spark debates among users is Microsoft Edge. Microsoft’s default browser, Edge, may have its merits, but there are alternative ways to take your Windows 10 experience to the next level by opting for other browsers and enhancing overall system performance. This article will guide you through the process of unlocking Windows 10’s hidden powers, showing you how to say goodbye to Microsoft Edge, and recommending the best alternatives for your everyday tasks.

Table of Contents

Why Choose Windows 10? A Brief Overview

Windows 10 is known for its user-friendly interface, customization options, and deep integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone who just enjoys exploring new tech, Windows 10 offers something for everyone. It’s not just a platform for running programs—it’s a toolkit for productivity, creativity, and security. But for many, Microsoft’s decision to make Edge the default browser left a lot to be desired.

Hidden Features of Windows 10 You Need to Explore

Before we dive into replacing Microsoft Edge, let’s take a look at some of the hidden features in Windows 10 that can boost your productivity and improve your overall experience:

Virtual Desktops: This allows you to create multiple desktops for different tasks, making multitasking easier.
Action Center: Keep track of notifications and quick settings without having to leave your current window.
Night Light: Reduces blue light from your screen, helping you sleep better after using your computer late at night.
Snap Assist: Organize open windows by snapping them to the sides of your screen for better multitasking.
Storage Sense: Automatically frees up space by removing temporary files and content you no longer need.

How to Say Goodbye to Microsoft Edge in Windows 10

Although Microsoft Edge comes pre-installed as the default browser in Windows 10, the good news is that it’s entirely possible to switch to your preferred browser and even remove it if you so wish. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do just that:

Step 1: Choose an Alternative Browser

First things first: you’ll need to choose an alternative browser that fits your needs. Some popular options include:

Google Chrome: Known for its speed and vast library of extensions.
Mozilla Firefox: Open-source and highly customizable with a focus on privacy.
Opera: A feature-packed browser with built-in VPN and ad blocker.
Brave: A privacy-focused browser that blocks trackers and ads by default.

Once you’ve decided on your browser of choice, proceed to download and install it from the official website.

Step 2: Set Your New Browser as Default

Once you’ve installed your new browser, the next step is to set it as the default browser in Windows 10. Follow these steps:

Open Settings by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
Go to Apps, then select Default apps from the left-hand side.
Under the Web browser section, click on Microsoft Edge (or the current default browser) and select your newly installed browser.

Once done, your new browser will now open automatically when you click on links or try to browse the web.

Step 3: Uninstall Microsoft Edge (Optional)

If you’re sure you want to completely remove Microsoft Edge from your Windows 10 device, follow these steps:

Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) from the menu.
In the PowerShell window, type the following command and hit Enter:
```
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge* | Remove-AppxPackage
```
Wait for the process to complete. Edge should now be removed from your system.

Note: Removing Microsoft Edge might not be necessary for most users, as Windows 10 integrates Edge into certain system functions. However, if you prefer a completely clean setup, this option is available.

Troubleshooting: What to Do If You Encounter Issues

Sometimes, switching default browsers or uninstalling Microsoft Edge may not go as smoothly as planned. Here are some common issues you might face and how to fix them:

Edge Won’t Set as Default: If the new browser is not being recognized as the default, double-check that you followed the steps correctly. Try restarting your computer or checking for Windows updates.
Browser Won’t Open: If your new browser doesn’t open after setting it as default, reinstall it and check if there are any compatibility issues with your version of Windows 10.
Edge Still Appears in Search: Even after uninstalling Edge, it may still show up in Windows search results. You can hide it by going to Settings > Search > Searching Windows and modifying the search index.

Boosting Performance After Edge Removal

After switching to a new browser, you might want to optimize your system further to ensure maximum performance. Here are some tips:

Disable Startup Programs: Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to the Startup tab, and disable unnecessary programs that slow down your PC.
Use Disk Cleanup: Run Disk Cleanup to remove temporary files, system files, and other unnecessary data.
Check for Malware: Use Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus program to scan your system for malware that could be slowing down your PC.

Additional Tips for Enhancing Your Windows 10 Experience

To truly unleash the potential of Windows 10, consider incorporating these tips into your daily routine:

Customize the Start Menu: Pin your most-used apps to the Start menu for easy access.
Utilize Cortana: Use Cortana to manage tasks, set reminders, and launch apps with your voice.
Take Advantage of Windows Ink: If you have a touch screen, use Windows Ink for taking notes, sketching, and annotating documents.
Enable System Restore: Make sure System Restore is turned on, so you can roll back your system if anything goes wrong.

Conclusion: Goodbye, Microsoft Edge—Hello, Better Windows 10

Windows 10 offers an incredible array of features that many users don’t even realize exist. By making a few adjustments, like saying goodbye to Microsoft Edge, you can streamline your experience, boost productivity, and enhance system performance. Whether you’re opting for a new browser or customizing your system settings, these changes will help you unlock the full potential of Windows 10.

Need further help with Windows 10? Visit the official Microsoft support page for troubleshooting guides, or explore HowToGeek for in-depth tips and tricks.

This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by BrowserMaster Team

Unleashing the Hidden Powers of Windows 10: Say Goodbye to Microsoft Edge