How to Stop Microsoft Edge from Running in the Background Windows 11

Microsoft Edge is an excellent web browser, but one of the most common complaints from Windows 11 users is that it continues to run in the background even after closing the app. This can be frustrating because it uses up system resources, slows down your computer, and may drain your battery faster. So, let’s dive into how to stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background Windows 11 and explore every aspect of this issue.

Why Does Microsoft Edge Run in the Background?

Microsoft Edge is designed to continue running background tasks to offer faster startup times and push notifications. While this may seem helpful, it’s not always necessary for everyone. In fact, for users with limited system resources or those who simply prefer a leaner system performance, it can be more of a nuisance than a feature.

According to user feedback on several forums, many complain about increased CPU and RAM usage due to Edge running background processes even when not in use. Battery drain on laptops is another common issue that has led users to search for a solution.

Disabling Background Apps in Windows 11 Settings

One of the easiest ways to address this is by disabling background apps through the Windows 11 settings.

1. Go to Settings: First, click the Start button and open the Settings app.
2. Select Privacy & Security: In the left-hand panel, scroll down and select “Privacy & Security.”
3. Find Background Apps: Scroll down to the “App permissions” section, and click on “Background apps.”
4. Turn off Background Apps for Edge: Here, you’ll see a list of apps. Find Microsoft Edge and switch off the option that allows it to run in the background.

By following this step, you’re essentially stopping Edge from running any background tasks, which should improve your system’s performance and battery life. Users on forums have reported that this simple tweak significantly reduced memory usage, and some even noticed their devices running smoother.

Disable Microsoft Edge Startup Boost

Another reason Edge may continue running in the background is its Startup Boost feature. This feature keeps minimal Edge processes running in the background to start the browser more quickly. While it can save time on browser launch, it may not be necessary for everyone.

Here’s how you can disable Startup Boost:

1. Open Microsoft Edge: Launch Edge and click on the three dots in the upper-right corner.
2. Go to Settings: Scroll down and click on “Settings.”
3. Find System and Performance: On the left side, locate the “System and Performance” section.
4. Turn Off Startup Boost: Toggle off the “Startup Boost” option.

Several users have confirmed that disabling Startup Boost not only stops background processes but also makes their computers feel less sluggish.

Adjust Edge’s Background Processes via Group Policy Editor (Advanced)

If you’re someone who is comfortable with more advanced methods, using the Group Policy Editor can also help you disable Microsoft Edge background processes permanently. This method is particularly helpful for users who don’t want to navigate through multiple settings menus.

1. Open Group Policy Editor: Press Win + R and type gpedit.msc, then hit Enter.
2. Navigate to Edge Settings: Go to “Computer Configuration” > “Administrative Templates” > “Microsoft Edge.”
3. Disable Background Mode: Double-click on “Allow Microsoft Edge to run in the background” and set it to “Disabled.”

Once you make these changes, Microsoft Edge will no longer run in the background unless you manually enable it again. This method is especially popular in user forums where more technical users share their setups for optimizing Windows 11 performance.

Disable Edge Pre-launch via the Registry Editor (Expert Users Only)

For those who are comfortable editing the Windows Registry, you can prevent Edge from pre-launching its processes. Please note, editing the registry can be risky, so make sure to back up your data before making any changes.

1. Open Registry Editor: Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to Edge Settings: Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\MicrosoftEdge\Main.
3. Create New DWORD: Right-click in the right pane and select “New” > “DWORD (32-bit) Value.”
4. Name it TabPreloader: Name the new value TabPreloader, then set its value to 0.

This prevents Edge from pre-loading its tabs when you boot up Windows. Several users on tech forums have vouched for this method, claiming it drastically reduces startup time and CPU usage.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to stop Microsoft Edge from running in the background Windows 11 can greatly enhance your PC’s performance. Whether you use simple settings like turning off background apps or advanced methods like using the Group Policy Editor or Registry Editor, the process is quite manageable. User reviews consistently show that these tweaks result in better system performance and battery life, particularly for those on laptops or older machines.