how to stop microsoft edge from running in the background windows 11
Does your computer feel a bit sluggish lately? It might be because Microsoft Edge is running in the background on your Windows 11 machine. Don’t worry—stopping it from doing this is a piece of cake. You can do it with just a few clicks, and I’ll show you how!
How to Stop Microsoft Edge from Running in the Background in Windows 11
We’re going to walk through the steps to stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background on your Windows 11 computer. This will help free up system resources and make your computer run more efficiently.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge
First, open Microsoft Edge on your computer.
Opening Microsoft Edge is simple. Just click on the Edge icon, which looks like a blue and green swirl. You’ll find it either pinned to your taskbar or in the Start menu.
Step 2: Access Settings
Step 2: Click the three dots (menu) in the top-right corner of Edge and select "Settings."
The three dots you need to click are often referred to as the "more options" button. It’s your gateway to all of Edge’s settings and features.
Step 3: Go to System and Performance
Step 3: In the Settings menu, navigate to the "System and performance" section.
On the left sidebar, you will see various options. Scroll down to find "System and performance." Click on it to access specific settings related to how Edge operates.
Step 4: Disable Background Apps
Step 4: Toggle off the switch next to "Continue running background apps when Microsoft Edge is closed."
This is the crucial step. Once you toggle off this switch, Edge will stop running background apps when you close the browser. It’s like flipping a switch to turn off a light; simple yet effective.
Step 5: Check Task Manager
Step 5: Open Task Manager to confirm Edge is no longer running in the background.
Right-click on the taskbar and select "Task Manager." Look under the "Processes" tab to ensure Edge is not consuming resources when you’ve closed it.
After performing these steps, Microsoft Edge will no longer run in the background. This means your system resources, like CPU and RAM, will be freed up for other tasks.
Tips for Stopping Microsoft Edge from Running in the Background in Windows 11
-
Regularly Update Edge: Keeping Edge updated ensures you have the latest features and fixes, which can optimize performance.
-
Use Task Manager: Check Task Manager periodically to see what apps are using the most resources.
-
Disable Extensions: Extensions can also run in the background. Disable any unnecessary ones in the Edge settings.
-
Clear Browsing Data: Regularly clear your browsing history, cookies, and cache to free up space and improve performance.
-
Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve many issues related to background processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Microsoft Edge running in the background?
Microsoft Edge runs in the background to keep certain tasks and apps, like notifications and extensions, active even when the browser is closed.
Will stopping Edge from running in the background affect performance?
Stopping Edge from running in the background can actually improve your computer’s performance by freeing up system resources.
Can I revert this setting if I change my mind?
Yes, you can easily go back to Edge settings and toggle the "Continue running background apps" switch back on if you find you need it.
Does this affect other browsers?
No, this setting only affects Microsoft Edge. Other browsers have their own settings for background tasks.
What if Edge still runs in the background after I change the setting?
If Edge still runs in the background, try restarting your computer. You may also want to check for any pending updates for Edge.
Summary
- Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge.
- Step 2: Access Settings.
- Step 3: Go to System and Performance.
- Step 4: Disable Background Apps.
- Step 5: Check Task Manager.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Stopping Microsoft Edge from running in the background in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can significantly boost your system’s performance. By following the steps and tips provided, you can ensure that your computer runs more smoothly and efficiently.
Remember, the steps involve opening Edge, accessing settings, navigating to the right section, and toggling off a simple switch. These few clicks can make a world of difference. If you want to dive deeper, always feel free to revisit the tips or FAQs section for more insights.
Want to keep your computer in tip-top shape? Stay updated with the latest tech tips and tricks, and don’t hesitate to explore further settings that can optimize your Windows 11 experience. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.