How to reset Edge to default settings

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To reset Microsoft Edge to its default settings, you can access the settings menu and choose to reset the browser. This process will restore Edge to its original state, removing any custom settings, extensions, and temporary data.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before resetting Microsoft Edge, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your device.
  • •Administrator permissions to make changes to the browser settings.
  • •Backup important data such as bookmarks and saved passwords, as resetting may remove them.

Method 1: Reset from Edge Settings

This is the primary method to reset Edge and is suitable for most users.
  • •Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge by clicking the Edge icon on your taskbar or searching for it in the Start menu.
  • •Step 2: Click on the three horizontal dots (More) in the upper right corner of the window.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 4: In the left sidebar, click on 'Reset settings'.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Restore settings to their default values'.
  • •Step 6: A confirmation dialog will appear. Click on 'Reset' to confirm.
  • •Step 7: To verify, you should see a message indicating that settings have been reset.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps may include additional settings integration.
  • •Step 1: Open Edge and click on the three dots in the top right corner.
  • •Step 2: Go to 'Settings' > 'Privacy, search, and services'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down to 'Reset settings' and follow the same steps as above.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow the same steps as the primary method.
  • •Step 1: Open Edge and click on the three dots in the top right corner.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Settings' > 'Reset settings'.
  • •Step 3: Click 'Restore settings to their default values' and confirm.

Method 2: Reset via Windows Settings

This method is useful if Edge is not functioning properly and cannot be accessed directly.
  • •Step 1: Press 'Windows + I' to open Windows Settings.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Apps'.
  • •Step 3: In the Apps & features section, scroll down and find 'Microsoft Edge'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Microsoft Edge', then select 'Modify'.
  • •Step 5: A dialog will appear; choose 'Repair' to reset Edge without losing data. If issues persist, choose 'Reset'.
  • •Step 6: Confirm the action and wait for the process to complete.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If resetting Edge does not resolve your issues, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
  • •Error: 'Unable to reset settings' - Solution: Ensure you have administrative privileges and try again.
  • •Issue: Edge still behaves incorrectly after reset - Fix: Check for malware using Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus.
  • •Problem: Extensions reappear after reset - Workaround: Manually remove extensions after resetting.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Here are some advanced tips for managing Edge effectively:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Ctrl + Shift + Delete' - Opens the Clear Browsing Data menu quickly.
  • •Command line: 'edge --reset' - Resets Edge directly from the command line (requires admin privileges).
  • •Hidden feature: 'Edge Flags' - Access experimental features by typing 'edge://flags' in the address bar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal performance, regularly reset Edge and clear browsing data to maintain speed and security.