How to Reset Microsoft Edge: A Complete Guide for Fixing Browser Issues

Microsoft Edge, a Chrome-based browser, typically offers solid performance. However, sometimes it can run into problems that are difficult to resolve. If usual troubleshooting methods don’t work, resetting Microsoft Edge to its default settings can often solve the issue.

Resetting the browser essentially gives it a fresh start, clearing incorrect settings, corrupted data, and other issues that might be causing slowdowns or glitches. Below are the three best ways to reset Microsoft Edge on a PC.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Resetting Edge

Before you proceed with resetting Microsoft Edge, it’s important to note that the following will be erased:

• Your startup page settings
• New tab page settings
• Your default search engine
• Pinned tabs
• Installed extensions will be turned off
• Temporary data, like cookies, will be cleared

However, your history, favorites, and saved passwords will remain intact.

1. Reset Microsoft Edge from the Browser Settings

This is the simplest and most straightforward way to reset Microsoft Edge.

Steps:

1. Launch the Microsoft Edge browser via Windows Search.
2. Click on the three dots in the top-right corner.
3. Select Settings from the menu.
4. In the Settings panel, switch to the Reset Settings tab in the left sidebar.
5. Click on Restore settings to their default values.
6. A confirmation prompt will appear. Click Reset to confirm.

2. Reset Microsoft Edge Without Opening It

If Microsoft Edge won’t open due to technical issues, you can reset it using the command line. This process requires closing Edge, renaming the User Data folder, and restarting the browser.

Steps:

1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) on your PC. Right-click on Microsoft Edge and select End Task to close it.
2. Press Ctrl + R to open the RUN dialog box. Paste the following command and hit Enter:
   shell

   Copy code

   %localappdata%\Microsoft\Edge

3. Once the folder opens, right-click on the User Data folder and select Rename.
4. Rename the folder to something like “Old UserData” or “UserData1” and press Enter.
5. After this, relaunch Microsoft Edge. You’ll see the Welcome screen, prompting you to select default options.

3. Reset Microsoft Edge Using PowerShell

For users who prefer using PowerShell, this method allows you to reinstall Microsoft Edge without opening it. This process can fix deeper issues and give you a fresh installation.

Steps:

1. Open the Start menu and search for PowerShell. Right-click on it and select Run as Administrator.
2. In the PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:
   mathematica

   Copy code

   Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers -Name Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml" -Verbose}


   This command will reinstall Microsoft Edge and potentially resolve the problems you were experiencing.

What If the Reset Settings Option Doesn’t Work?

If you find that the Reset Settings option does not work (i.e., clicking it causes Edge to close without performing any action), try these troubleshooting steps:

Repair Microsoft Edge

You can use the built-in Microsoft Edge repair tool to fix any issues with the browser without resetting it.

Steps:

1. Open Windows Settings and go to Apps > Installed Apps.
2. Scroll down and find Microsoft Edge. Click the three dots next to it.
3. In the menu that appears, click on Modify.
4. In the Microsoft Edge Repair Tool window, click Repair and follow the on-screen instructions.

This repair tool will fix the browser without affecting your personal data.

Conclusion

Resetting Microsoft Edge can be a quick and effective solution to fix a variety of browser issues. Whether you’re resetting it from the settings menu, using PowerShell, or dealing with problems that prevent Edge from opening, these methods should help you restore the browser to its optimal state. If all else fails, using the repair tool can provide additional support to get your browser working smoothly again.