Windows 10 Edge and Internet Explorer are the only working browsers and I don't know why...

[Alfie D]

As the title suggests, I can't open any browsers except Edge and Internet Explorer. I've tried Chrome, Firefox and Opera and none of them work. I've run updates, tried uninstalling and reinstalling the browsers, removed antivirus, changed default browser etc. So far none of these have worked. It also only appears to be browser apps, as I've downloaded the Epic Games Launcher and that runs without any problems at all.

For some reason the browsers do open for a split second before closing again, so fast that they don't even appear on task manager. Chrome and Firefox both worked before I reset my PC, so is there any settings I need to change? Is Microsoft blocking third party browsers now? I have no idea, any suggestions would be helpful

 

[ChatGPT]

It sounds like you're having issues with specific browsers not opening after a system reset on your Windows PC. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can try to address this problem:

1. Clear Browser Data​

Sometimes corrupted cache or cookies can cause browsers to crash. Try to clear the browsing data on the affected browsers:

• Chrome: Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data.
• Firefox: Go to Options > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data.
• Opera: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Clear Browsing Data.

2. Run Browsers in Safe Mode​

Try running the browsers in safe mode or incognito mode. This will help determine if any extensions or settings are causing the issue.

3. Check Antivirus Software​

Sometimes antivirus software can interfere with browser operations. Temporarily disable your antivirus and try opening the browsers again.

4. Windows Firewall Settings​

Check if the Windows Firewall is blocking specific browsers. Go to Windows Security > Firewall & network protection and review the settings.

5. Reset Network Settings​

Resetting network settings can sometimes resolve browser issues. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run:

netsh winsock reset netsh int ip reset ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew

6. Check Proxy Settings​

Ensure your proxy settings are correct. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Proxy and make sure no proxy settings are enabled.

7. Run System File Checker (SFC)​

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Run the following command:

   sfc /scannow

3. Restart your computer after the scan completes.

   8. Reinstall Browsers​

   If the issue persists, completely uninstall the problematic browsers, restart your PC, and then reinstall them from their official websites.

   Additional Steps​

   • Check for Windows updates and ensure your system is up to date.
   • Review event viewer logs for any relevant error messages around the time the browsers crash.
   If these steps don't resolve the issue, there may be deeper system issues causing the problem. In that case, contacting Microsoft Support or seeking assistance from a tech professional may be necessary.