Windows 11 has a search bar in the taskbar and Start menu that lets you find things on your computer and on the internet. However, if you click on any results on the Internet, Windows will open them in Microsoft Edge, even if that's not your default browser. Fortunately, there is a way to override this problem and force Windows to open links in your preferred browser.
Install MSEdgeRedirect to force Windows 11 to use your favorite browser
MSEdgeRedirect is the best way to prevent Microsoft Edge from launching every time you use Windows Search. The app will also prevent Edge from launching randomly, plus it will allow you to use third-party services instead of Microsoft's own news, weather, and other real-time update options. Installing it is as easy as going through a few setup screens.
One of the installation screens asks you to select an installation mode. For most people, active mode is recommended. On the next page, you'll see a number of active mode preferences. First, select Edge Stable, unless you're running a beta version of the browser. After that, stop other Microsoft redirects like Bing Discover, Bing Images, Bing Search, MSN News, MSN Weather, etc. through preferences. For each of these, MSEdgeRedirect provides some alternatives so you can choose.
Control your browser and search engines
Windows 11’s search bar will become even more useful after you install the app. The internet link will now open in your default browser and use your preferred search engine.
MSEdgeRedirect is a great way to fix Windows 11 default settings. But you can go one step further. Some people really don't like the way Microsoft slows down the search feature by trying to display results from across the internet. Fortunately, you can remove Internet results from Windows Search and focus on the apps and files on your PC.
