Microsoft Edge's default configuration, like some other apps, makes it run in the background, and it may have consequences like occupying your RAM. It can reduce the speed and effectiveness of your device and drain the battery fast. 

Uninstalling the apps may be a way to stop them from running in the background, but there are better ways to achieve the same. This post will show you the steps to stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background.

Method 1: Disable It As the Default Browser

Microsoft Edge is the official Windows browser, and it is likely to have it as the default browser on your device. That way, you do not need to choose between applications when you want to browse. Disabling it as the default browser automatically stops it from running in the background and you can do it with the steps below:

Step 1: Settings

Navigate to the PC settings using any of the three ways below:

  • Press the Windows button and select Settings under the pinned apps section.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Right-click on the start menu and click Settings from the context menu.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Press the Windows button + I simultaneously.

Step 2: Apps

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

Click Apps on the left pane of the Settings page.

Step 3: Default Apps

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

Next, click on Default apps on the right window pane.

Step 4: Web Browser

Scroll down on the default apps page and click on the Web browser option.

Step 5: Select A Default Browser

The system will select Microsoft Edge if it is the default browser on your system. Choose a different browser from the options and you have disabled Edge. 

However, you must have installed other browsers other than Microsoft Edge on your PC to use this method.

Method 2: Disable Microsoft Edge From Running At Startup

Another reason Microsoft Edge may be running in the background is that it launches as you turn on your computer. Your computer may launch Microsoft Edge during the startup process to reduce the loading time when you finally decide to use it. Apps that launch on startup increase the time it takes for your computer to boot.

Follow these steps to stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background by restricting it from launching during startup:

  • Right-click on the Start menu and click Settings. You can also press Windows + I on your keyboard to open Settings.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Click on Apps.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Next, click on Startup.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • You will find a list of apps in the next window. Scroll down till you find Microsoft Edge.
  • Toggle the button next to Microsoft Edge to the Off position to stop Microsoft Edge from launching during the startup process. 

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

Method 3: Use the Task Manager

The Task Manager is a system monitor program that provides information about the processes and applications running on your computer. You can check the Task Manager to see if Microsoft Edge or other applications and processes are running in the background. You can also use it to stop them from running in the background.

Follow these steps to stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background using Task Manager:

  • Right-click the Taskbar at the bottom of your home screen and select Task Manager. You can also press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Task Manager.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Click on the Processes tab.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Scroll down until you find Microsoft Edge.
  • Right-click on it and select End Task.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

You may have to end the task several times, depending on the number of times Microsoft Edge runs. 

Method 4: Use Microsoft Edge Settings

Microsoft Edge's Settings lets you decide what you want the application to do when you are using it or not, and you can disable the app from running in the background with the settings options. 

Here are the steps to do this:

  • Launch Microsoft Edge on your computer.
  • Click on the three dots at the top right corner of your screen to access Microsoft Excel's Options.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Click on Settings in the Options menu.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Next, click on System and performance in the left window pane.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

  • Click on the switch next to Continue running background apps when Microsoft Edge is closed.

How To Stop Microsoft Edge Running In The Background

Conclusion

You may need to stop Microsoft Edge and other applications from running in the background because they may drain your battery or occupy system memory. However, if Microsoft Edge stops running in the background, its extensions and other services will also stop running.

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