How To Make Chrome Default Browser Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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4 min. read

Published on October 30, 2025

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Changing your default web browser on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that allows you to personalize your computing experience. If you prefer Google Chrome over Microsoft Edge, setting it as the default ensures that all web links and HTML files automatically open in Chrome, streamlining your workflow and keeping your preferred browser at the forefront.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to making Chrome your default browser on Windows 11. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to seamlessly integrate Chrome into your daily use and enjoy its features as your primary web browsing tool.

Setting Chrome as Your Default Browser on Windows 11?

Step 1: Open the Settings App

Click on the Start button.
Select the Settings icon (it looks like a gear). Alternatively, press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app directly.

Step 2: Navigate to the Apps Section

In the Settings app, click on Apps in the left-hand sidebar.
Select Default apps from the list of options.

Step 3: Find Chrome in the App List

In the “Default apps” settings, scroll down to the list of installed applications.
Locate Google Chrome in the list and click on it.

Step 4: Set Chrome as the Default for File Types and Link Types

After clicking on Google Chrome, you’ll see a list of file types and link types that Chrome can handle (e.g., .htm, .html, .HTTP, .HTTPS).
For each file type or link type you want Chrome to handle, click on the current default app (likely Microsoft Edge).
A pop-up will appear asking “How do you want to open this?”. Select Google Chrome from the list of available apps.
If you don’t see Chrome, click “More apps” to expand the list. If it’s still not there, click “Look for another app on this PC” and navigate to Chrome’s installation directory (usually C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe).
Repeat steps 2 and 3 for all relevant file types and link types until Chrome is the default for all of them.

Step 5: Verify the Change

After setting Chrome as the default for all relevant file types and link types, close the Settings app.
Click on a web link or open an HTML file to ensure it opens in Chrome.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Restart your computer: Sometimes, a restart can help ensure the changes take effect properly.
Check for updates: Make sure Chrome is up to date to avoid any compatibility issues.
Consider importing your data: If you’re switching from another browser, import your bookmarks, history, and passwords to Chrome for a seamless transition.

Default Browser Alternatives

Here’s a quick comparison of popular browsers and their strengths:

Browser	Strengths	Weaknesses
Google Chrome	Extensive extensions, cross-platform syncing, user-friendly interface	Resource-intensive, privacy concerns
Microsoft Edge	Integration with Windows, efficient resource usage, built-in security features	Limited extension library compared to Chrome, privacy concerns
Mozilla Firefox	Strong privacy features, customizable, open-source	Can be slower than Chrome or Edge, less extensive extension library
Apple Safari	Optimized for macOS and iOS, energy efficient	Limited cross-platform support, fewer customization options

Ensuring Chrome is Your Go-To Browser

By following these steps, you can easily set Chrome as your default browser on Windows 11, ensuring a consistent and personalized browsing experience. Enjoy the features and functionality of Chrome as your primary web tool.

FAQ

How do I change my default browser back to Edge? Follow the same steps as above, but select Microsoft Edge instead of Google Chrome when choosing the default app for each file type and link type.

Why is Windows 11 still opening links in Edge even after I set Chrome as default? Make sure you’ve set Chrome as the default for all relevant file types and link types (.htm, .html, HTTP, HTTPS). Also, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.

Can I set a different default browser for different user accounts on the same computer? Yes, each user account can have its own default browser settings. Log in to each account and follow the steps above to set the default browser for that account.

Is there a way to set Chrome as the default browser without going through the Settings app? Yes, you can set Chrome as the default browser directly from within Chrome’s settings. Open Chrome, go to Settings > Default browser, and click “Make default”.