How to force Windows 10 to use your default browser with EdgeDeflector
Windows will sometimes ignore your default browser settings, but you can get around that.
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Microsoft Edge may be one of thebest Windows apps, but that doesn’t mean people want to be forced to use it, and, unfortunately, parts of Windows 10, and evenWindows 11, ignore your default browser settings. For example, if you click on a link within a widget on Windows 11, it will open in Edge regardless of what’s set as your default browser. You can get around this by using EdgeDeflector, a third-party app that redirects all links to your default browser. If you need help swapping your browser settings, you can follow our guide onhow to set any browser as default on Windows 10.
How to make Windows use your default browser all of the time
Once you install EdgeDeflector, it will open a website with steps on how to make it work. We’ll break down the same steps here:
EdgeDeflector is now set up. You can test that it’s working by clicking on a link that took you to Edge regardless of your default browser settings. You can also go to microsoft-edge:https://www.ctrl.blog to test that EdgeDeflector is working.
Some point out that EdgeDeflector shouldn’t be necessary and that Microsoft should just make Windows follow your default browser settings. While that may be the case, EdgeDefelctor runs quietly in the background and only needs to be set up once.
This app redirects any links you click to your default browser, even if Windows 10 or Windows 11 want to open a link in Edge.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
