Microsoft Edge is the default web browser for Windows 11 and 10. It offers many features and benefits, such as fast performance, cross-device sync, privacy tools, and more. However, sometimes you may experience Edge may not open or launch properly, leaving you unable to access the internet or your favorite websites. Several users report Microsoft Edge won’t open or Edge closes immediately after opening. There are several possible reasons why Microsoft Edge may not open on Windows 11, such as corrupted files, incompatible extensions, outdated drivers, malware infection, or system errors. In this article, we’ll explore various troubleshooting steps to help you resolve this issue and get Microsoft Edge up and running smoothly on your Windows 11 system.
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Microsoft Edge Won’t Open
There are several common reasons why Microsoft Edge may fail to open or close unexpectedly after opening on Windows 11. Understanding these reasons can help in troubleshooting and resolving the issue effectively.
- If the user profile associated with Microsoft Edge becomes corrupted, it can lead to issues such as the browser failing to open or closing unexpectedly.
- Conflicts with other software or applications installed on the system can cause Microsoft Edge to malfunction.
- Running an outdated version of Microsoft Edge can result in compatibility issues with the Windows operating system or web standards.
- Over time, the files and settings associated with Microsoft Edge may become corrupted, leading to operational issues.
- Infections from malware or viruses can compromise the integrity of system files, including those associated with Microsoft Edge.
Restart your computer
This is a simple but effective way to resolve many common issues with Windows 11 and Microsoft Edge. A restart can clear the cache, free up memory, and fix any temporary glitches that may prevent the browser from opening.
Press the Windows key, select the power button then click restart, now try opening Microsoft Edge again.
In addition Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open the Task Manager, Under the Processes tab, right-click on Microsoft Edge and select End task.
Repair Microsoft Edge browser
Since Edge comes built-in with Windows, you can’t uninstall or reinstall it like you would with other software. However, there’s a repair option available that works similarly to reinstalling the browser. Repairing Microsoft Edge involves checking for any damaged, broken, or missing files that might be causing the problem. By fixing these faulty files, you can get Edge back to working order.
- Right-click on the Start menu and select Installed apps from the list.
- Scroll down to locate Microsoft Edge, Click on the three-dot menu icon next to it and select Modify.
- Click Yes if UAC prompts for permission, and finally, Click on the “Repair” button to start Diagnose and Repairing.
- Since this process downloads required edge files from Microsoft server, ensure you are connected to stable internet before proceeding.
This process can help diagnose and fix any underlying issues that might be affecting its functionality. Let it complete, once done reboot your computer and try open Microsoft edge again.
Create a new user account
Sometimes corrupt user profile is the reason why apps fail to open include Microsoft edge on Windows 11. Create a new user account following steps below and check if Edge open and working as expected in the new profile.
- Press Windows + I to open the Settings app, and go to the Accounts tab.
- Click on Family & other users, then Add account button next to Add other users.
- Click on I don’t have this person’s sign-in information, then Add a user without a Microsoft account.
- Enter the desired user name and password, security question and click next to create new user account.
Now sign out from your current account and login with newly created user account to check if Microsoft edge working as expected. If it does, you may need to transfer your files and settings to the new profile.
Repair corrupt Windows Files
Corrupted system files can lead to various issues, including the failure of Microsoft Edge to open. Windows system files may corrupt due to various reasons such as software conflicts, abrupt shutdowns, or malware infections. Running the System File Checker (SFC) tool scans the system for corrupted files and attempts to repair them.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator. Press the Windows key, type cmd right click on the command prompt and select run as administrator.
- Type command sfc /scannow and press enterkey,
- This command will scan and repair any corrupted system files that may be affecting Microsoft Edge.
Let the scanning complete 100%, once done reboot your computer and try open edge to check if corrupt files are the reason why Microsoft edge won’t open on Windows 11.
Install Windows 11 updates
Microsoft regularly releases updates for the Windows operating system to address bugs, security vulnerabilities, and compatibility issues. Running an outdated version of Windows may result in conflicts or issues with Microsoft Edge and other applications.
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings
- Go to Windows Update, and click on “Check for updates”.
- Download and Install any available updates.
- Once done restart your computer to apply changes.
This can resolve compatibility issues and provide a more stable environment for Microsoft Edge to function correctly.
Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help identify software conflicts that may be causing Microsoft Edge to fail to open. By starting Windows with only essential services and startup items enabled, you can determine if a third-party application or service is interfering with Microsoft Edge.
- Press Windows + R, Type msconfig and press Enter to open the System Configuration utility.
- Navigate to the Services tab, Check the box next to Hide all Microsoft services then Click on Disable all.
- Next, go to the Startup tab and click on Open Task Manager, select each startup item and click Disable.
- Close the Task Manager and then click OK in the System Configuration window.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes and boot into a clean environment.
Now try opening Microsoft Edge to see if the issue persists. If Edge opens successfully, you can gradually re-enable services and startup items one by one, restarting your computer each time, until you identify the software conflict causing the problem.
Disable Security Software
While security software such as antivirus programs are essential for protecting your system from malware and threats, they can sometimes interfere with the normal operation of applications like Microsoft Edge.
Temporarily disabling third-party security software try opening Edge again to see if the issue is resolved.
If Edge opens after disabling security software, it indicates that the security software may be the culprit. You can then adjust its settings or seek alternative solutions.
Run Windows Store App Troubleshooter
Windows provides built-in troubleshooters to diagnose and fix common issues with various components of the operating system, including Windows Store apps like Microsoft Edge. Running this troubleshooter can help identify and resolve underlying issues that prevent Microsoft Edge from opening properly.
- Press Windows key + X and select settings
- Go to the system then troubleshoot and other troubleshooters
- Scroll down and locate Windows Store apps, and click Run next to it
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
The Windows Store Apps troubleshooter scans for problems related to Windows Store apps, including issues with app installation, updates, and performance.
Restart your computer and try to open Microsoft edge.
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