How to reset Microsoft Edge in Windows 10 when things are broken | iiQ8 Best Microsoft Edge is one of the most widely used web browsers on Windows computers. It allows users to browse websites, access online services, download files, watch videos, use web applications and synchronize bookmarks and passwords across devices.

However, like any other browser, Microsoft Edge can sometimes develop problems. It may suddenly close, freeze while opening a website, display a blank screen, respond very slowly, or refuse to launch altogether.

If you are experiencing these issues, you do not necessarily need to uninstall the browser or reinstall Windows. In many cases, you can solve the problem by updating Edge, clearing damaged temporary data, disabling a problematic extension, resetting browser settings or repairing the Edge installation.

This guide explains how to troubleshoot and reset Microsoft Edge on a Windows 10 computer using practical, step-by-step instructions.

Common Microsoft Edge Problems in Windows 10

Before resetting the browser, identify the problem you are experiencing. This can help you choose the right solution without unnecessarily removing browser data.

Before Resetting Microsoft Edge – Protect Your Important Data

Do not immediately delete the Microsoft Edge user-data folder. It may contain important information, including bookmarks, passwords, browsing history, cookies, settings and other profile information.

Before attempting a major reset, take these precautions:

1. Open Microsoft Edge if it is working.
2. Check whether you are signed in with your Microsoft account.
3. Open Settings > Profiles > Sync.
4. Check whether your Favorites and other important data are synchronized.
5. Export your Favorites as an additional backup.
6. Make sure you know your Microsoft account password before signing out.

How to Export Microsoft Edge Favorites

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
3. Select Favorites.
4. Open the Favorites management option.
5. Look for the option to export Favorites.
6. Save the exported HTML file in a safe location, such as Documents or an external drive.

Menu wording may vary slightly between Edge versions. Keep this backup until you have confirmed that your bookmarks are available after troubleshooting.

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Method 1: Close Microsoft Edge Completely and Restart Your Computer

Sometimes Edge remains running in the background even after you close its browser window. A stuck browser process can prevent a new session from opening correctly.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Close all Microsoft Edge browser windows.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
3. Click Processes, if that tab is available.
4. Look for Microsoft Edge or processes named msedge.exe.
5. If Edge is still running and you have closed all its windows, select the relevant Edge process group.
6. Click End task.
7. Close Task Manager.
8. Restart your computer from Start > Power > Restart.
9. Open Microsoft Edge again and test it.

Expected result: If a stuck Edge process was responsible, the browser may now open normally.

Method 2: Update Microsoft Edge to the Latest Available Version

An outdated browser may contain bugs or compatibility issues. Updating Edge is one of the first things you should try when websites crash, pages display incorrectly or the browser behaves unexpectedly.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
3. Select Settings.
4. Open About Microsoft Edge.
5. Allow Edge to check for available updates.
6. If an update is available, allow it to download and install.
7. Restart the browser if requested.
8. Open the same websites that previously caused problems.

If Edge cannot open at all, continue to the Windows repair method later in this article.

Method 3: Disable Extensions That May Be Causing Problems

Browser extensions add useful features, but an incompatible, outdated or poorly designed extension can cause crashes, slow performance, unexpected redirects or problems loading websites.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Enter edge://extensions in the address bar.
3. Press Enter.
4. Review the list of installed extensions.
5. Turn off the extensions using their individual switches.
6. Close and reopen Edge.
7. Test the browser again.

If Edge works normally after disabling extensions, turn them back on one at a time. Test the browser after enabling each extension to identify the one causing the problem.

Remove extensions that you do not recognize or no longer need. Avoid installing extensions from unknown websites.

Method 4: Clear Microsoft Edge Cache and Temporary Browsing Data

Microsoft Edge stores temporary website files, images and other browsing information to help pages load faster. Sometimes these stored files become outdated or corrupted and cause website loading problems.

Clearing the cache can help resolve issues such as:

• Websites displaying old or incorrect content.
• Pages failing to load correctly.
• Repeated loading errors.
• Some websites displaying blank pages.
• Temporary browser performance problems.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the three-dot menu and select Settings.
3. Select Privacy, search, and services.
4. Find the Clear browsing data section.
5. Click Choose what to clear.
6. Select a suitable time range, such as All time, if you intend to clear the entire available cache.
7. Select Cached images and files.
8. Review the other options carefully.
9. Click Clear now.
10. Close and reopen Edge.

Important: You do not need to select Passwords or Autofill form data just to clear the cache. Cookies and site data may sign you out of websites. Also, when synchronization is enabled, deleting synchronized data may affect other devices. Check the selected options before confirming.

Method 5: Reset Microsoft Edge Settings to Their Default Values

If Edge still behaves incorrectly after the previous methods, reset its browser settings. This is one of the most useful solutions when the homepage, startup page, search engine or other browser preferences have been changed unexpectedly.

The reset option restores several browser settings to their defaults. It is not the same as deleting the complete Edge installation or Windows user profile.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
3. Select Settings.
4. Open Reset settings from the left-side menu.
5. Select Restore settings to their default values.
6. Read the confirmation message carefully.
7. Click Reset to confirm.
8. Close Microsoft Edge completely.
9. Open Edge again and test the browser.

You can also enter the following internal address directly in the Edge address bar:

edge://settings/reset

This takes you to the browser’s reset settings page.

What happens when you reset Microsoft Edge settings?

Exact behaviour can vary by Edge version and profile state. Always maintain a backup of important browser information before troubleshooting.

Method 6: Repair Microsoft Edge Using Windows 10 Settings

If Microsoft Edge does not launch, crashes repeatedly or remains broken after resetting its settings, try repairing the browser through Windows Settings.

The Repair option checks the Edge installation and attempts to fix installation-related problems. Microsoft indicates that browser data and settings should not be affected by this repair procedure.

Step-by-step procedure for Windows 10

1. Close all Microsoft Edge windows.
2. Press Windows + I to open Windows Settings.
3. Select Apps.
4. Open Apps & features.
5. Find Microsoft Edge in the installed applications list.
6. Select Microsoft Edge.
7. Click Modify, if the option is available.
8. Allow the User Account Control prompt by selecting Yes.
9. Make sure your computer is connected to the internet.
10. Select Repair in the Microsoft Edge repair window.
11. Wait until the repair process finishes.
12. Restart your computer if necessary.
13. Open Microsoft Edge and check whether the issue is resolved.

Note: If the Modify option is unavailable, Edge may be managed by your organization or installed under a configuration that does not expose this repair option. Contact your IT administrator if it is a work computer. Do not try to bypass organizational controls.

Windows 10 Edge can’t be opened using the built-in administrator account

Method 7: Check Your Internet Connection and Test Other Websites

Sometimes the browser itself is working correctly, but a network, DNS or website problem makes it appear that Edge is broken.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Visit two or three different trusted websites.
3. Check whether all websites fail or only one particular website.
4. Open another browser, if available, and test the same website.
5. Restart your modem or router if several websites are inaccessible.
6. If you are using a company network, check whether a firewall or web-filtering policy is blocking the website.
7. Contact your network administrator if the problem occurs only on your organization’s network.

If only one website is failing, the issue may be with that website rather than Microsoft Edge.

Method 8: Scan Windows for Malware and Unwanted Software

Unwanted programs, browser hijackers and malware can change browser settings, display unwanted advertisements, redirect searches or interfere with normal browsing.

Run a Microsoft Defender scan

1. Click the Windows Start button.
2. Search for Windows Security.
3. Open Windows Security.
4. Select Virus & threat protection.
5. Click Quick scan.
6. Wait for the scan to complete.
7. Follow the recommended action if a threat is detected.

If you continue to experience suspicious browser redirects or unwanted pop-ups, consider running a more thorough scan. Do not click suspicious security warnings displayed inside webpages or install software promoted by unexpected pop-ups.

Method 9: Create a New Microsoft Edge Profile

If Edge opens but your existing profile displays errors, missing Favorites, missing extensions or synchronization problems, the profile may be damaged.

Creating a separate profile is a useful diagnostic test. It allows you to check whether the problem is limited to your original browser profile.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the profile icon near the upper-right corner.
3. Select the option to add a profile.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new profile.
5. Open a new browser window using that profile.
6. Visit the websites that previously caused problems.
7. Check whether Edge works normally.

If the new profile works correctly, the problem may be related to the original profile rather than the complete browser installation.

Before moving information between profiles, make sure you have a backup of your Favorites and other important data. Sign in and enable synchronization only when you are sure you are using the correct account.

Method 10: Advanced Microsoft Edge Profile Recovery

This method is intended for users who receive profile errors, cannot load their Edge profile or have persistent problems that are not resolved by the previous methods.

Warning: Do not delete the entire Microsoft Edge user-data folder as a routine troubleshooting step. It can contain bookmarks, passwords, cookies, history and other profile information. Back up the folder before attempting any recovery operation.

Step 1: Close all Edge processes

1. Close Microsoft Edge.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
3. Open Task Manager.
4. Check whether Microsoft Edge is still running.
5. End the remaining Edge processes if no browser window is in use.

Step 2: Open the Edge user-data folder

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Enter the following path:

%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Edge\User Data

3. Press Enter.
4. File Explorer should open the Microsoft Edge user-data folder.

Step 3: Make a backup

1. Go one folder level up to the Microsoft Edge directory.
2. Copy the entire User Data folder.
3. Paste the copied folder into another safe location, preferably an external drive or a separate backup folder.
4. Wait until the copying process is complete.

Step 4: Diagnose the affected profile

Microsoft’s profile troubleshooting guidance includes checking whether another Edge process is using the profile, whether the profile folder is writable and whether synchronization is working correctly.

For a profile-specific issue, do not rename or remove folders until you have identified the affected profile and preserved a backup. If you are unsure which folder contains your data, stop and seek technical assistance.

Advanced users may test a new profile and migrate selected information rather than deleting the original profile. Keep the backup until all required data has been recovered and verified.

Historical Method: Old Microsoft Edge Legacy Repair Procedure

The following original screenshots have been retained for historical reference, as requested. They show the older Microsoft Edge Legacy package-folder and PowerShell procedure.

Original screenshot 1 – Old Microsoft Edge package folder

Original screenshot 2 – Old Edge folder deletion screen

Original screenshot 3 – Old Edge folder properties

Original screenshot 4 – Old PowerShell Edge registration

Historical note: The original article instructed users to delete the Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_8wekyb3d8bbwe package folder and run an AppX PowerShell registration command. Those instructions are not a supported general repair procedure for the current Chromium-based Edge browser. Use the modern reset and repair methods described earlier in this article instead.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips

1. Check available computer memory

If you have too many browser tabs and applications open, Windows may run short of available memory. Close unused applications and unnecessary tabs, then test Edge again.

2. Check Windows date and time

Incorrect date, time or time-zone settings can cause certificate and secure-connection errors on websites. Open Windows Settings and verify that the date, time and time zone are correct.

3. Check graphics driver updates

If Edge displays graphical glitches, black screens or video playback problems, check whether your graphics driver has an available update from your computer or graphics-card manufacturer. Avoid downloading drivers from unknown websites.

4. Check security software

Make sure Windows Security and any third-party security software are updated. Do not permanently disable antivirus or firewall protection to test Edge. If you suspect a security product is blocking a website, use its approved diagnostic logs or contact your IT administrator.

5. Check whether your computer is managed by an organization

Company computers may use Microsoft Edge policies to control extensions, homepage settings, updates, proxy settings and security features. If a setting keeps changing or the Repair option is unavailable, contact your IT administrator rather than attempting to remove policy settings.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Resetting Microsoft Edge

1. How do I reset Microsoft Edge in Windows 10?

Open Microsoft Edge, select the three-dot menu, open Settings, choose Reset settings, select Restore settings to their default values and confirm by clicking Reset.

2. Will resetting Microsoft Edge delete my Favorites?

A normal browser-settings reset is designed to preserve Favorites. However, deleting the browser profile or clearing certain data can remove important information. Export your Favorites before major troubleshooting.

3. Will resetting Edge delete my saved passwords?

A normal settings reset generally preserves saved passwords. However, clearing the Passwords data option or deleting the complete browser profile can remove them. Keep a secure backup and make sure you can access your Microsoft account.

4. Why does Microsoft Edge open and then close automatically?

Possible reasons include a stuck browser process, a damaged profile, an incompatible extension or a damaged browser installation. Restart Windows, disable extensions if possible and use the Windows Repair option.

5. How can I repair Microsoft Edge without uninstalling it?

In Windows 10, open Settings, select Apps, open Apps & features, select Microsoft Edge and choose Modify if available. Then select Repair and follow the on-screen instructions.

6. What is the command to open Edge reset settings?

Enter edge://settings/reset in the Microsoft Edge address bar and press Enter.

7. Can I delete the Microsoft Edge folder from AppData?

Do not delete the complete Edge user-data folder as a normal repair step. It may contain Favorites, passwords, history and other profile information. Back it up first and use profile-specific recovery only when necessary.

8. Does the old PowerShell command still work for Microsoft Edge?

The PowerShell command in the original article was intended for Microsoft Edge Legacy, not the current Chromium-based browser. It should not be used as a general repair instruction for modern Edge.

9. What should I do if the Edge Repair option is missing?

The option may be unavailable because of the way Edge was installed or because the computer is managed by an organization. Check with your IT administrator if the device belongs to your workplace.

10. Is Microsoft Edge still supported on Windows 10?

Windows 10 reached its end of support on October 14, 2025. Edge browser updates and Windows operating-system support have separate release and lifecycle arrangements. Check the current Microsoft Edge release information and your Windows servicing status rather than assuming that Windows 10 support guarantees ongoing operating-system security updates.

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Conclusion

Microsoft Edge problems do not always require a complete browser reinstall. In many situations, restarting the browser, updating it, disabling problematic extensions, clearing selected temporary data or resetting browser settings can solve the issue.

If these steps do not work, use the Repair option in Windows Settings. For profile-related problems, create a new profile or follow a careful recovery procedure after backing up the original user data.

Most importantly, avoid deleting browser system folders or running old Microsoft Edge Legacy PowerShell commands on current versions of Microsoft Edge. Use the modern repair methods and protect your Favorites, passwords and other important browsing information.

Keep visiting IndianInQ8.com for more Windows troubleshooting guides, technology updates, useful computer tips and step-by-step tutorials.

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