How To Change the Default Browser on Laptop?

Changing the default browser on your laptop is a useful customization that allows you to have greater control over your web browsing experience. By setting your preferred browser as the default option, you can ensure that all web links and HTML files open in the browser of your choice, providing a seamless and personalized online experience.

Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, the process of changing the default browser is typically straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few steps. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of changing the default browser on each of these operating systems, enabling you to tailor your laptop’s browsing capabilities to suit your preferences.

Having the ability to switch to your preferred browser offers several benefits. You may have a specific browser that you find more user-friendly, faster, or feature-rich than the default option that came pre-installed on your laptop. Changing the default browser allows you to take advantage of the unique features and functionalities offered by your preferred browser, such as enhanced security measures, customizable interfaces, and extensive plugin support. So, without any further delay, let’s get started!

Changing the Default Browser on Windows

1. Open the Start menu by clicking the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
2. Type “default apps” into the search bar and select the “Default apps” option from the search results. This will open the Default Apps settings window.
3. In the Default Apps window, locate the “Web browser” section and click on the current default browser. A list of available browsers will appear.
4. Select your preferred browser from the list. If it’s not listed, click on the “Look for an app in the Microsoft Store” link or the “Look for another app on this PC” link to manually locate the browser’s executable file.
5. Once you’ve selected your preferred browser, it will be set as the default option for opening web links and HTML files.

Changing the Default Browser on macOS

1. Click on the Apple menu icon in the top-left corner of the screen and select “System Preferences” from the dropdown menu.
2. In the System Preferences window, click on the “General” icon.
3. Within the General preferences, locate the “Default web browser” section. It should display the currently set default browser.
4. Click on the dropdown menu next to the default browser and select your preferred browser from the list.
5. Close the System Preferences window, and your new default browser will be set.

Changing the Default Browser on Linux

1. Open the Activities overview by clicking on the “Activities” button in the top-left corner of the screen or pressing the Super key (Windows key).
2. Type “default applications” into the search bar and select the “Default Applications” option from the search results. This will open the Default Applications settings window.
3. In the Default Applications window, locate the “Web” category and click on the current default browser. A list of available browsers will appear.
4. Select your preferred browser from the list. If it’s not listed, you may need to install it first using your distribution package manager.
5. Once you’ve selected your preferred browser, it will be set as the default option for opening web links and HTML files.

In all three operating systems, changing the default browser will ensure that web links and HTML files are opened in your preferred browser whenever you click on them or open them from other applications. If you ever wish to change the default browser again, simply follow these steps and select a different browser.

The Verdict

Additionally, changing the default browser enables seamless integration with your workflow. If you use certain web-based applications or services that work best with a specific browser, setting it as the default option ensures that you can access those resources effortlessly.

Whether you’re a casual internet user or a professional who heavily relies on web browsing, knowing how to change the default browser on your laptop gives you the flexibility to tailor your online experience to your liking. So, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for Windows, macOS, and Linux, empowering you to switch to your preferred browser and optimize your web browsing activities.