How to Change Default Browser

Edited 3 days ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Changing your default web browser is an essential skill in today's digital world. The default browser is the one that automatically opens when you click a link from another app. Here we provide you with complete instructions for different operating systems to help you switch. Whether you're using Windows, macOS or mobile operating systems like Android and iOS, we can help you.

Changing the default browser in Windows

Windows lets you easily change your default browser through the Settings app. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app. You can do this by clicking the Start menu and then selecting Settings (represented by the gear icon).
2. Click on Apps.
3. In the left sidebar, select Default apps.
4. Under the Web Browser section, you will see the current default browser. Click on it to see the list of installed browsers.
5. From the list, select the browser you want to set as default. If your preferred browser is not listed, make sure it is installed on your system.
6. Close the Settings app. Your default browser has now been changed.

Example: Changing the default browser to Google Chrome

Let’s say you want to change your default browser from Microsoft Edge to Google Chrome:

1. First, open the Settings app by clicking the Start menu and then selecting Settings.
2. Go to Apps and then select Default apps.
3. Under the Web browser section, click on Microsoft Edge.
4. From the list of browsers, select Google Chrome.
5. Close the Settings app: Now, Google Chrome is your default browser.

Changing the default browser in macOS

On macOS, you can change your default browser through System Preferences. Here are the steps:

1. Click the Apple menu at the top left corner of the screen and select System Preferences.
2. In the System Preferences window, click General.
3. In the General pane, look for the section called Default web browser.
4. Click on the dropdown menu next to it and select your preferred browser from the list. Make sure the browser is installed on your system.
5. Close the System Preferences window. Your default browser has now changed.

Example: Changing the default browser to Firefox

If you want to change your default browser to Firefox:

1. Click the Apple menu and choose System Preferences.
2. Click General in the System Preferences window.
3. Find the Default web browser section and click the dropdown menu next to it.
4. Select Firefox from the list.
5. Close the System Preferences window: Your default browser is now set to Firefox.

Change the default browser on Android

Android devices allow you to change the default browser through the device settings. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap Apps or Applications depending on your device.
3. Tap the Default apps option, which can be located under the Advanced section.
4. Tap the browser app.
5. From the list of browsers, select the browser you want to set as default.
6. Exit the Settings app. Your default browser has now changed.

Example: Changing the default browser to Brave

If you prefer to use Brave as your default browser:

1. Go to the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Select Apps or Applications.
3. Tap Default apps. If you don't see it, look under Advanced.
4. Tap the browser app.
5. Select Brave from the list.
6. Exit the Settings app: Now, Brave is your default browser.

Changing the default browser on iOS

On iOS devices like iPhones and iPads, changing the default browser requires the device to be running iOS 14 or later. Here's how you can do it:

1. Open the Settings app on your iOS device.
2. Scroll down and find the browser app you want to set as default. Tap on it.
3. Tap the Default Browser App.
4. Select your preferred browser from the list.
5. Exit the Settings app. Your default browser has now changed.

Example: Changing the default browser to Safari

If you want to make Safari your default browser:

1. Go to the Settings app on your iOS device.
2. Scroll down and tap Safari.
3. Tap the Default Browser App.
4. Select Safari from the list.
5. Quit the Settings app: Safari is now your default browser.

Troubleshooting common problems

If you encounter any problems when changing your default browser, you can try the following troubleshooting tips:

• Make sure the browser is installed on your device.
• Restart your device to clear any system glitches.
• Update your operating system to the latest version.
• If you're on a work or school device, check with your administrator as there may be restrictions in place.

Example: Making sure a browser is installed

Often the problem is simply that the browser isn't installed:

• Go to the official website of the browser.
• Download and install the latest version of the browser.
• Follow the instructions above to set it as the default browser.

Conclusion

Changing your default browser is a straightforward process, no matter what your operating system is. By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you can choose the browser that best suits your needs. Whether you're using Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, the ability to choose your preferred browser gives you more control over your web browsing experience.

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