MSEdgeRedirect
A Tool to Redirect News, Search, Widgets, Weather, and More to Your Default Browser
This tool filters and passes the command line arguments of Microsoft Edge processes into your default browser instead of hooking into the microsoft-edge:
handler, this should provide resiliency against future changes. Additionally, an Image File Execution Options mode is available to operate similarly to the Old EdgeDeflector. Additional modes are planned for future versions.
No Default App walkthrough or other steps, just set and forget.
⚠️ PLEASE NOTE: MSEdgeRedirect is still BETA. Changes are to be expected, and performance to be improved.
Recommended Alternatives
Looking for Alternatives? Check Out This Chart
Not looking for Extra Features? Try @AveYo’s ChrEdgeFckOff
Looking to Disable Web Search Entirely? Try @krlvm’s BeautySearch
Downloads
Download Stable (GitHub) | Download Testing (GitHub) |
---|---|
Package Managers
|
||
---|---|---|
choco install msedgeredirect |
scoop bucket add extras scoop install msedgeredirect |
winget install MSEdgeRedirect |
Compiling
- Download and run «AutoIt Full Installation» from official website.
- Get the source code either by downloading zip or do
git clone https://github.com/rcmaehl/MSEdgeRedirect
. - Right click on
MSEdgeRedirect.au3
in the MSEdgeRedirect directory and select «Compile Script (x64) (or x86 if you have 32 bit Windows install). - This will create MSEdgeRedirect.exe in the same directory.
System Requirements
Minimum Requirements | Recommended | |
---|---|---|
OS | Windows 10 | Latest Windows 11 Build |
CPU | SSE3 Capable CPU | 64-bit Dual Core or Higher |
RAM (Memory) | 40MB Free | 100MB Free |
Disk (Storage) | 5MB Free | 100MB Free |
Contributors
Become a contributor
See CONTRIBUTING.md for rules of coding and pull requests.
License
MSEdgeRedirect is free and open source software, it is using the LGPL-3.0 license.
See LICENSE for the full license text.
FAQ
MSEdgeRedirect isn’t listed in the «How do you want to open this?» Menu?
Select the Featured Microsoft Edge. MSEdgeRedirect will still properly function.
Will MSEdgeRedirect work with Edge uninstalled?
MSEdgeRedirect is compatible with @AveYo’s Edge Removal as it retains a needed component. If Edge was removed using another method, reinstall Edge Stable, then run AveYo’s tool. After AveYo’s Edge Removal has been run, simply install MSEdgeRedirect and it will be detected automatically.
It isn’t working for me?
Run microsoft-edge:https://google.com
using the Windows
+ R
keys. If that is not properly redirected, file a bug report!
Will searches inside <app name here> still use Bing?
MSEdgeRedirect only redirects links that attempt to open in MS Edge. It will not affect results generated within other applications.
Can you change Bing results to Google Results?
Yes, as of 0.5.0.0, you can select One of 8 available Search Engines, or set your own!
How do I uninstall?
Normal Installs
Regular Install | Corrupted Install |
---|---|
Use Programs and Features | Cleanup Tool |
Package Managers
Chocolatey | Scoop | Winget |
---|---|---|
choco uninstall msedgeredirect |
scoop uninstall msedgeredirect |
winget uninstall MSEdgeRedirect |
Время на прочтение1 мин
Количество просмотров9.8K
Microsoft разрешит пользователям Windows 10 и 11 удалить браузер Edge, но опция будет доступна только жителям Евросоюза. Кроме того, для удаления можно использовать MSEdgeRedirect, популярное стороннее приложение для устранения проблем, связанных с браузером в Windows, которое тоже было обновлено.
Версия приложения 0.7.5.1 доступна для загрузки с GitHub и включает «европейский режим», а также несколько дополнительных исправлений. Новый режим в MSEdgeRedirect меняет регион устройства на одну из поддерживаемых стран, где для удаления Edge не требуется вмешательство во внутренние компоненты операционной системы.
Изменения, внесенные с помощью MSEdgeRedirect, должны быть устойчивыми к обновлениям Windows и работать как постоянные. В будущей версии приложения появится ещё один метод, который включает смену владельца и изменение одного из системных файлов для перевода системы на Windows в работу в стране ЕС.
Наконец, в версию 0.7.5.1 добавили стандартный декодер, в ней улучшили пользовательский интерфейс установщика удалили устаревшие файлы, добавили поддержку локалей для Windy.com и Weather.com, а также заполнителей в URL-адресах поиска, в том числе изображений и многое другое.
Ранее Microsoft выпустила стабильную версию Edge 120.0.2210.61 с парой новых функций администратора, новыми политиками, а также исправлениями ошибок безопасности.
Introduction
Windows 11, like its predecessor Windows 10, has made significant strides in integrating its native applications and fine-tuning user experience. However, many users prefer browsers other than Microsoft Edge, which is the default browser on Windows systems. While Windows 11 offers some flexibility in setting your preferred web browser, external links and certain features may still open in Edge by default.
For those seeking a seamless browsing experience without having to manually switch browsers, tools like MSEdgeRedirect have emerged as effective solutions. This article delves deep into MSEdgeRedirect, how it works, its installation process, usage, and benefits, providing a comprehensive guide for users looking to use their preferred browser in conjunction with Windows 11.
What is MSEdgeRedirect?
MSEdgeRedirect is an open-source utility designed specifically for Windows users who want to manage how links open from applications that might default to Microsoft Edge. Unlike traditional methods where users had to grapple with system settings or registry edits, MSEdgeRedirect offers a straightforward solution that automates the redirection of links to the user’s browser of choice.
This tool intercepts web links initiated by applications, particularly Microsoft apps that tend to default to Edge, and redirects them to another browser like Google Chrome, Firefox, or any other preferred browser. The ability to manage the browser experience efficiently is essential, especially for users who rely heavily on browsers for productivity, research, or personal usage.
Why Use MSEdgeRedirect?
When Windows 11 was released, many users quickly realized that even after changing their default web browser to something else, links in certain situations—like from the Start Menu, widgets, or specific Microsoft applications—would still open in Edge. This behavior can be frustrating and counterproductive, prompting users to seek solutions like MSEdgeRedirect.
Here are a few key reasons why MSEdgeRedirect is beneficial:
- User Control: It provides users full control over how and where links are opened without resetting browser preferences regularly.
- Seamless Experience: Users can maintain a consistent browsing experience by ensuring all links open in their preferred browser.
- Easy Setup: MSEdgeRedirect requires minimal configuration after installation, making it accessible even for non-tech-savvy users.
- Open-Source: Being open-source means that it is community-driven, regularly updated, and free to use.
Prerequisites for MSEdgeRedirect
Before diving into the installation and configuration of MSEdgeRedirect, users should be aware of a few prerequisites:
- Windows 11: Ensure that you are using Windows 11, as this tool is designed to work efficiently within the Windows ecosystem.
- .NET Framework: MSEdgeRedirect relies on the .NET Framework to function correctly. If your system does not have it installed, ensure you are running at least .NET 4.5 or higher.
- Preferred Web Browser: The browser you wish to redirect links to should be installed and set as default in Windows settings for better integration, though MSEdgeRedirect can still direct links even if it’s not set as default.
Installing MSEdgeRedirect
Follow these steps to install MSEdgeRedirect on Windows 11:
-
Download the Tool:
- Visit the official GitHub repository MSEdgeRedirect.
- Navigate to the Releases section and download the latest version of the application.
-
Extract the Files:
- Locate the downloaded ZIP file in your Downloads folder.
- Right-click the file and select «Extract All.»
- Choose a destination folder where you want to save the extracted files.
-
Run the Application:
- Open the folder where you extracted the files.
- Locate the
MSEdgeRedirect.exe
file and double-click it to run the application. - You may encounter a UAC prompt asking for permission to run the application; click «Yes.»
-
Grant Necessary Permissions:
- MSEdgeRedirect may require certain permissions to insert itself into your system processes properly. Allow these prompts to enable it to function without hindrance.
Configuring MSEdgeRedirect
Once MSEdgeRedirect is installed and running, configuring the tool is straightforward. By default, MSEdgeRedirect is set to redirect links to the default browser. However, users can customize the settings further.
-
Access Settings:
- Locate the
config.json
file in the MSEdgeRedirect folder. - Open it using a text editor like Notepad or Visual Studio Code.
- Locate the
-
Adjusting Default Settings:
- In the
config.json
file, you can customize the settings based on your needs. By default, you may find an entry like"defaultBrowser": "C:\Program Files\YourBrowser\browser.exe"
. Make sure it points to the correct executable of your preferred browser.
- In the
-
Setting Up Additional Parameters:
- MSEdgeRedirect also allows for advanced configurations such as the ability to customize how URLs are handled and whether you want specific applications to be excluded from redirecting.
- Save the changes to
config.json
and close the text editor.
-
Restart the Application:
- For the changes to take effect, you may need to restart the MSEdgeRedirect application.
Testing the Redirection
After installation and configuration, it’s essential to test if everything is functioning as intended:
- Open a Link: Launch any Microsoft application that typically opens links in Edge. This can be the Start Menu or a widget.
- Click a Web Link: Choose any link to open, and verify if it now opens in your preferred browser instead of Edge.
- Check Configurations: If the link still opens in Edge, return to the
config.json
file and check for any errors in the configurations or permissions.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While MSEdgeRedirect is generally reliable, users may encounter some issues. Here are some common problems along with their solutions:
-
Links Still Opening in Edge:
- Ensure that MSEdgeRedirect is running in the background.
- Check if the
config.json
file is correctly configured. - Restart your computer to refresh system settings.
-
Application Fails to Launch:
- Confirm that you have the .NET Framework installed on your system.
- Look for error messages in the command line window if MSEdgeRedirect was opened through one.
-
Permissions Issues:
- Make sure you run MSEdgeRedirect as an administrator. Right-click the application and select «Run as administrator.»
Benefits of Using MSEdgeRedirect
Using MSEdgeRedirect not only improves usability for those not inclined towards Microsoft’s suite of browsers but also introduces an array of benefits:
-
Freedom of Choice: MSEdgeRedirect reinforces the concept that users are entitled to choose the tools that best meet their needs.
-
Integration and Compatibility: The application smoothly integrates with existing Windows functionalities, enabling seamless link redirection.
-
Regular Updates: Being part of the open-source community, MSEdgeRedirect benefits from continual updates and improvements based on user feedback.
-
Unique Features: Users can prioritize certain browsers over others for specific applications or scenarios based on their workflow.
Conclusion
In a world where browsing the internet forms the backbone of most digital activities, the ability to manage your online experience is crucial. MSEdgeRedirect provides an elegant solution to the problem of unwanted browser defaults in Windows 11, enhancing user control and personalizing browser interactions.
By following the steps outlined in this article, users can effortlessly redirect links to their preferred browser and enjoy a seamless online experience. The installation and configuration process is user-friendly, providing even non-technical users the capability to harness their browsing preferences effectively.
With MSEdgeRedirect at your disposal, you can take back control over how your links open, ensuring that your browsing experience aligns perfectly with your preferences. So why settle for a default option when you can streamline your browsing experience? Embrace the power of MSEdgeRedirect and elevate your Windows 11 experience today!
И хотя в Windows 11 вы можете назначить Chrome, Firefox или любой другой браузер в качестве обозревателя по умолчанию, операционная система по-прежнему станет открывать ссылки из встроенных приложений в Microsoft Edge. В свое время Brave и Firefox удалось обойти это ограничение, но вскоре Microsoft заблокировала найденный обходной путь, попутно заявив, что подобные манипуляции являются неправомерными.
Выпущенное Microsoft обновление KB5008215 для Windows 11 блокирует перехват ссылок «microsoft-edge» сторонними приложениями, включая утилиту EdgeDeflector.
Для перенаправления ссылок в сторонние браузеры отныне нужно будет использовать другой, новый инструмент — утилиту MSEdgeRedirect, актуальную версию которой вы можете скачать со страницы разработчика:
github.com/rcmaehl/MSEdgeRedirect
Установка MSEdgeRedirect может быть выполнена в двух режимах — Service Mode и Active Mode.
В первом режиме утилита работает как служба, в фоне, автоматически перехватывая и перенаправляя ссылки «microsoft-edge» в браузер, который назначен обозревателем по умолчанию.
Если вы выберите «активный» режим, MS Edge Redirect станет запускаться подобно приложению использовавшейся для аналогичных целей EdgeDeflector. Если вы не собираетесь пользоваться Edge, лучше выбирать режим «Service Mode», не забывайте только, что и в режиме «Active Mode» MSEdgeRedirect должна быть запущена в системе.
Windows 10 and 11 come with a web browser from Microsoft called Microsoft Edge web browser installed already. But many Windows users desire more than the stock web browser and choose to install other browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Opera or Vivaldi web browsers. These other web browsers offer faster operation, privacy, security and a load of other features. Besides other available web browsers on the internet are open-source and we know what is happening behind the scenes.
But this is where the Windows users run into a painful situation. Even after setting that third-party web browser as the default web browser on Windows 10 or Windows 11, when you click on any links on the Windows Settings interface, they are opened in the Microsoft Edge web browser. And we cannot even completely remove the Edge web browser from Windows.
Since Edge cannot be uninstalled, someone has created a tool called MSEdgeRedirect which can redirect all the Edge web browser commands to the default web browser. During the installation of MSEdgeRedirect, we can choose whether it is for use in the service mode or in the active mode.
In the service mode, we can install it without requiring any administrator user rights. It is less intrusive and is installed only for the single user (the one who is installing it). In the active mode, it is installed for all the Windows users, performs much better and supports a few more options.
During the installation we can also choose additional redirections. For example, we can choose to redirect Bing search to other search engines like Google, Bing images to other image search engines like Google Image search, MSN news to Google News, MS Weather to Weather.com, Edge PDF viewer to the default installed PDF reader, and more.
If you use a third-party web browser like Google Chrome and want to use it in all the possible situations, everywhere on Windows 10 and 11, then you should definitely install the MSEdgeRedirect tool.
You can download MSEdgeRedirect from https://github.com/rcmaehl/MSEdgeRedirect.