How to Stop Microsoft Edge from Running in the Background in Windows 11

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Michael Collins

If you’re finding that Microsoft Edge is running in the background on your Windows 11 machine and consuming resources, you can stop it from doing so by adjusting a few settings. This article will guide you through the steps to prevent Microsoft Edge from running in the background. Follow along to quickly and easily manage your background applications.

How to Stop Microsoft Edge from Running in the Background Windows 11

Here’s a step-by-step guide to stopping Microsoft Edge from running in the background on Windows 11:

Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge

Open the Microsoft Edge browser on your device.

By opening Edge, you can access the settings menu where you will adjust the needed configurations to prevent it from running in the background.

Step 2: Access Edge Settings

Click on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select ‘Settings.’

This will open the settings page where you can find various options to customize how Microsoft Edge behaves.

Step 3: Navigate to System and Performance

Go to the ‘System and Performance’ tab in the left sidebar.

This section includes settings that control how Edge uses your system’s resources, including its behavior when running in the background.

Step 4: Find Background Extensions and Apps

Look for the ‘Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed’ option.

This option allows Edge to keep running certain tasks even after you’ve closed the browser window.

Step 5: Disable Background Running

Toggle the switch to ‘Off.’

Turning this off ensures that Microsoft Edge will not run any extensions or applications in the background once the browser is closed.

After completing these steps, Microsoft Edge will no longer run in the background, freeing up system resources for other tasks.

Tips for Stopping Microsoft Edge from Running in the Background Windows 11

  • Regularly Check Settings: Occasionally verify your settings to ensure that updates or changes haven’t re-enabled the background task option.
  • Use Task Manager: If you suspect Edge is still running, use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to confirm and manually end its processes.
  • Disable Startup Programs: Ensure Microsoft Edge is not set to launch on startup by managing startup applications via Task Manager.
  • Keep Edge Updated: Updates can sometimes reset settings, so always check after an update.
  • Configure Power Settings: Adjust power settings to further control how background apps behave when your computer is idle or running on battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft Edge run in the background?

Edge runs in the background to keep extensions and apps up-to-date and to maintain quick launch speeds for a better user experience.

Will stopping Edge from running in the background affect performance?

No, it will not affect your browsing experience. It will, however, free up system resources, potentially improving overall performance.

Can I restart Edge background processes later?

Yes, you can always enable the ‘Continue running background extensions and apps’ option again via the settings if needed.

Is it safe to disable background running for Edge?

Yes, it is safe. Disabling this feature simply stops Edge from performing tasks when it’s closed, preventing unnecessary resource usage.

How do I know if Edge is running in the background?

You can use Task Manager to see if Edge processes are active even when the browser window is closed.

Summary of Steps

  1. Open Microsoft Edge.
  2. Access Edge settings.
  3. Navigate to System and Performance.
  4. Find Background Extensions and Apps.
  5. Disable Background Running.

Conclusion

Managing how Microsoft Edge operates in the background can significantly improve your computer’s performance and free up resources. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background on Windows 11. Remember to check your settings periodically, especially after updates, to ensure they haven’t reverted. Taking these simple steps can make a big difference in how your machine handles multitasking and resource management. For more detailed guides on optimizing your Windows 11 experience, stay tuned to our blog!