π© Is Microsoft Edge relentlessly popping up in your Windows Start Menu's Recommended section, cluttering your shortcuts and frustrating your workflow? You're not alone β this pesky issue affects millions of users on the latest Windows builds. But don't worry! This guide delivers the Solving Microsoft Edge "Start Menu Recommended" Fix you've been searching for. We'll walk you through simple, effective solutions to reclaim your Start Menu. Let's dive in and get your desktop sparkling clean! β
Why Does Microsoft Edge Appear in Start Menu Recommended?
Microsoft promotes Microsoft Edge as the default browser by featuring it prominently in the Start Menu Recommended area. This stems from Windows' built-in algorithms that prioritize "recommended" apps, especially after updates or resets. It's designed to boost Edge adoption, but it feels intrusive. Common triggers include:
- Recent Windows updates pushing Edge.
- Edge auto-pinning itself via telemetry.
- "Show recently added apps" or "Show recommendations" toggles enabled by default.
Spot that familiar clutter? Time to fix it! π
Quick Fixes: Step-by-Step Solving Microsoft Edge "Start Menu Recommended" Fix
We've prioritized methods from easiest to most robust. Start with #1 β most users succeed here!
1οΈβ£ Method 1: Toggle Start Menu Settings (Easiest, No Restart Needed)
This disables recommendations entirely without advanced tweaks.
- Right-click Start Menu β Settings (or press Win + I).
- Go to Personalization β Start.
- Turn OFF:
- Show recently added apps
- Show recently opened apps in Start
- Show recommendations for tips, shortcuts, new apps, etc.
- Done! Edge vanishes instantly.
Pro Tip: Pin your favorite apps manually afterward for a personalized view. π
2οΈβ£ Method 2: Group Policy Editor (For Windows Pro/Enterprise)
Perfect for permanent block on business machines.
- Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, hit Enter.
- Navigate: Computer Configuration β Administrative Templates β Windows Components β Cloud Content.
- Enable these policies:
- Turn off Microsoft consumer experiences
- Turn off Suggested content in Settings app
- Do not suggest third-party content in Windows spotlight
- Run
gpupdate /force in Command Prompt (Admin).
- Restart Explorer: Task Manager β Restart Windows Explorer.
This nukes all recommendations, including Edge. π
3οΈβ£ Method 3: Registry Edit (Advanced, All Windows Editions)
β οΈ Backup Registry first (File β Export). For ultimate control:
- Press Win + R, type
regedit, Enter.
- Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer (Create key if missing).
- New DWORD (32-bit): Name
DisabledEdgeStartMenu, Value 1.
- Bonus: Under
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\EdgeUpdate, set UpdateDefault to 0.
- Restart PC.
Edge promotions? Gone forever. πͺ
Compare Fix Methods at a Glance
| Method |
Ease |
Permanence |
Windows Edition |
Restart Needed? |
| Start Settings |
βββββ |
Temporary |
All |
No |
| Group Policy |
βββ |
Permanent |
Pro+ |
Yes |
| Registry |
ββ |
Permanent |
All |
Yes |
Bonus Tips to Prevent Recurrence
- Set Default Browser: Settings β Apps β Default apps β Choose Chrome/Firefox.
- Disable Edge Auto-Updates: Use Microsoft's official guide.
- Third-Party Tools: CCleaner or O&O ShutUp10 for one-click tweaks (use cautiously).
- Update Windows: Ensures latest patches fix Edge behaviors.
Still seeing Edge? Run sfc /scannow in Admin Command Prompt to repair system files. π οΈ
FAQs: Your Microsoft Edge Start Menu Recommended Fix Questions Answered
Will these fixes break Windows updates?
No! They target recommendations only. Microsoft confirms compatibility in their docs.
Edge keeps coming back after reboot?
Combine Methods 1+3. Or check for Edge reinstalls via Settings β Apps β Installed apps β Microsoft Edge β Uninstall (reinstall if needed).
Safe for Windows Home edition?
Yes! Stick to Settings or Registry. Group Policy requires Pro upgrade.
Wrap-Up: Enjoy a Clutter-Free Start Menu! π
Congrats! You've mastered the Solving Microsoft Edge "Start Menu Recommended" Fix. Your Start Menu is now tailored to you, not Microsoft's agenda. Share this guide with friends facing the same issue β and drop a comment below if you have tips! Ready for more Windows hacks? Stick around for our next productivity boosters. π