By Paul Thurrott
Publication Date: 2026-02-08 22:27:00
Note: This is an early peek at a chapter from my next book, De-Enshittify Windows 11. This book will be available for purchase soon, hopefully by the end of February. But I’m happy to reveal that Thurrott Premium members will get the book for free. And I will publish each chapter to this site, as I do for the main Windows 11 Field Guide, and update as needed. –Paul
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Microsoft Edge is the modern successor to Internet Explorer, but it’s also a key vector for enshittification in Windows 11. For this reason, it’s important to configure this web browser correctly. And that’s true whether you intend to use Microsoft Edge or not.
⚠️ Warning: Do not ignore this chapter if you use a different web browser.
The problems with Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is the most malicious software that Microsoft bundles with Windows 11. The problems with this app are many. But key malicious behaviors include:
Online tracking. Microsoft Edge tracks your online activities so Microsoft…