Microsoft finally makes it easier to change the default browser in Windows 11

Microsoft is finally making it easier to switch default browsers in Windows 11. A new update (KB5011563) started rolling out this week that allows Windows 11 users to switch default browsers with just one click. After testing the changes in December, this new one-click method is rolling out to all Windows 11 users.

Originally, Windows 11 came without a simple button to change the default browser which was still available in Windows 10. Instead, Microsoft forced Windows 11 users to change individual file extensions or handlers protocol for HTTP, HTTPS, .HTML, and .HTM, or you had to check a box that only appeared when you clicked a link from outside a browser. Microsoft has defended its decision to make it harder to change default settings, but rival browser makers like Mozilla, Brave and even Google’s Chrome lead have criticized Microsoft’s approach.

In the latest Windows 11 update, you can now go to the default apps section, find your browser of choice, and then a button appears asking if you want to make it the default. All the work of modifying file managers is done with a single click, making it a big improvement over what came before.

Microsoft has clearly listened to feedback and criticism regarding the changes made here in Windows 11. The software maker continues to improve Windows 11 every month, with updates like this or bigger changes like apps Android and taskbar improvements. Microsoft now plans to detail the bigger changes to Windows 11 for hybrid work at an event on April 5.