10 Tips to Speed Up Microsoft Edge on Windows 10/11

For many users, Microsoft Edge has cemented its position as a reliable and efficient web browser—outpacing many of its competitors. However, like a finely tuned sports car, even Edge can experience some drag. Slow load times, lagging performance, and a less smooth browsing experience can be the result of various factors, from cluttered cache to excess extensions. Fortunately, several optimizations can turn your browsing back into a sleek ride. Let’s dive into how you can speed up Microsoft Edge on Windows 11 and 10.

1. Update the Microsoft Edge Browser​

The first step in optimizing any software is ensuring you're running the latest version. Microsoft frequently rolls out updates that include not just security patches but new features and performance enhancements. To check for updates:

• Click on the three dots in the top-right corner of Edge.
• Navigate to Help and Feedback > About Microsoft Edge.
• If updates are available, they'll automatically download and install.

Keeping your browser updated is like changing the oil in a car—it's essential for peak performance!

2. Turn off the Preload New Tab Page​

Edge has a knack for efficiency with its Preload New Tab Page feature, which preloads content for your new tab in the background. However, this can bog down performance. Here's how to turn it off:

• Open the Edge browser.
• Click on the three dots, select Settings.
• Navigate to Start, home, and new tabs and toggle off the Preload the new tab page option.

Disabling this feature is like decluttering your garage; it frees up resources for what's important.

3. Turn off the Efficiency Mode​

While the Efficiency Mode is designed to conserve power—especially on laptops—it can sometimes slow things down. To disable it:

• Head to Settings and go to System and Performance.
• Switch off the toggle for Efficiency Mode.

Sometimes, trying to save resources can have the reverse effect, just like driving slowly to save gas often results in longer trips.

4. Enable Hardware Acceleration​

One of the wonders of modern computing is the ability of browsers to offload resource-intensive tasks to better-suited hardware. By enabling Hardware Acceleration, you're allowing Edge to utilize your GPU more effectively:

• Go to Settings, then System and Performance.
• Turn on the option for Use hardware acceleration when available.

This can significantly enhance browsing performance, much like turbocharging a car.

5. Enable Start-up Boost​

Want to get to browsing faster? The Start-up Boost feature can be a game changer:

• In Settings, go to System and Performance.
• Activate the Start-up Boost option.

This ensures that Edge opens quicker, getting you back into the fast lane without a pit stop.

6. Turn Off Browser Extensions​

While extensions can enrich your browsing experience, too many can weigh it down:

• Click on the three dots and select Extensions > Manage Extensions.
• Disable any extensions you don't need.

Just as too many passengers can slow down a road trip, excess extensions will bog down Edge’s performance.

7. Switch to the Default Theme​

Customizing your browser is fun, but a flashy theme can slow things down:

• In Settings, go to Appearance and select Default Theme.

Simplicity can lead to speed. Think of this as swapping out a heavy cargo for a lighter load to enhance speed.

8. Change Tracking Prevention Settings​

Edge's robust tracking prevention can inadvertently tangle your browsing with unnecessary slowdowns, especially if set to Strict:

• Open Settings, navigate to Privacy, Search, and Services,
• Set Tracking Prevention to Balanced.

It’s like choosing to ignore some minor detours to maintain a faster route on your daily commute.

9. Flush the Microsoft Edge DNS​

If specific web pages are taking unusually long to load, it's time to clear the DNS cache:

• Type edge://net-internals/#dns into the address bar.
• Click Clear host cache.

This act refreshes the route maps your browser uses, ensuring you're taking the fastest path available without stuck traffic.

10. Reset Microsoft Edge​

If all else fails, a full reset might be in order. This will revert Edge to its original settings:

• In Settings, head to Reset Settings.
• Click on Restore settings to their default values.

Remember, resetting is like getting a fresh start; just be aware that it clears your pinned tabs and custom configurations.

Conclusion​

By following these steps, you can breathe new life into Microsoft Edge, enhancing your web browsing speed and overall experience on Windows 11/10. Whether you’re an avid gamer, a streaming buff, or just someone who enjoys a smooth browsing experience, optimizing Edge can make all the difference. So, tighten those rubber bands, hit the gas, and enjoy the fast lane of the internet!
For more tips and tricks about maximizing your Windows experience, stay tuned to WindowsForum.com!
Source: TechWorm How to Speed Up Microsoft Edge to Run Faster on Windows 11/10 (complete)