Many people have a favorite web browser, and it’s not always the default one. According to Statista, Google Chrome accounts for nearly 70 percent of desktop users globally, as of June 2021. Mac and iOS users may prefer the Safari browser since Apple is the developer. Other popular choices include Microsoft’s Edge (and Internet Explorer), Mozilla’s Firefox, Opera, Brave, and Vivaldi. Whichever browser is your favorite, we’ll help you set it as your default.
How to set a default browser:
What is a default browser?
A default browser is a web browser that opens automatically for Internet activity that requires going to websites, opening web documents, or visiting a network address. Your default browser usually starts whenever you click a link for browsing, downloading, or logging into a website. Nowadays, computers, mobile devices, video game consoles, and even smart TVs have web browsers.
Why change the default browser?
People change their web browsers to access new features, improve browsing performance, or gain stability. As private browsing has grown in popularity, some users select a browser for its privacy features. Some Internet users also change their web browsers for the browser sync feature, which helps them synchronize history, bookmarks, passwords, and cookies across devices. However, using browser sync can lead to security issues.
Why is my default browser changing?
It can be frustrating if your default browser keeps changing without your permission. Sometimes, it’s because an operating system sneakily tricks you into reverting to its own browser. Some malware can also change your default browser or hijack your favorite browser. A free antivirus download that scans your system for malware could fix the problem. Extensions like Browser Guard can also shield you from browser hijackers.
How can I browse safely?
Most modern browsers that regularly patch security holes are good options, but they still need a helping hand. You can try a private VPN service to spoof your location and encrypt your data. You can also improve the privacy of your browser by adopting the right settings.
But even the most secure browser can only do so much to keep you safe. Only go to trustworthy websites and be careful about the links you click. Malicious sources can infect your browser with malware like adware. While adware isn’t usually a security concern, it can be quite annoying. For example, Adposhel adware allows bad actors to abuse your browser push notifications to generate revenue. Certain websites, freeware, shareware, email attachments can also infect your system with a malicious Chromium browser like WebNavigator. Although WebNavigator promises to simplify your browsing experience, it’s a search hijacker that adds graphic search recommendations to your search results.
How to change your default browser (using browser settings)
The most convenient way to change your default browser is through the browser’s settings.
Google Chrome
Changing your browser to Google Chrome requires just a few steps. Click the menu button (three vertical dots) on the top right and then select Settings. Scroll down to Default Browser and change it to Google Chrome.
Mozilla Firefox
Open Mozilla Firefox and click the burger menu icon (three horizontal lines). Click options and then click Make Default to set Firefox as your default browser. Tick the box next to “Always check if Firefox is your default browser” to avoid changing it accidentally.
Microsoft Edge
Start Microsoft Edge and click the three dots on the top right. Click settings and look on top. You’ll see a question that says: Would you like to set Microsoft Edge as your default browser? Click Set as default.
Internet Explorer
Microsoft has recommended that Internet Explorer users update to Microsoft’s Edge browser. However, if you choose to still use Internet Explorer as your default browser, here is how to set it as default. Double click the Internet Explorer icon to start the browser. Once Internet Explorer has started, click the Gears icon on the top right. Now, click Internet options and then the Programs tab. Choose Make default to make Internet Explorer your default browser.
How to set a default browser (by operating system)
Windows 10
Type settings in your search bar to launch the Settings app. Click Default apps on the menu on the left. Now, look under Web browser to set your default browser.
Mac
From the Apple menu go to System preferences and then click General. Now, click the Default web browser menu. Here, pick your default browser.
Android
Start the Settings app on your Android device and tap Apps. Tap the three dots on the upper right and tap Default apps in the drop-down menu. Tap Browser app and select your default web browser.
iPhone or iPad
Changing your default browser on the iOS is a quick process. Find the browser app in the Settings menu. Tap the app to set your default browser on iPhone or iPad.