Can Microsoft Edge Run as a Desktop App? Installation and Usage Guide

Microsoft Edge is a web browser developed by Microsoft and comes pre-installed on Windows 10. This article aims to clarify whether Microsoft Edge can be run as a desktop app and how to install it if necessary. We will also explore its features and how you can use it effectively.

Key Features of Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is equipped with several features that make it more than just a simple web browser. Some of its key features include:

Privacy Enhancements: Edge offers users enhanced privacy controls to help protect their personal data. Cross-Platform Support: It is available on both Windows and other operating systems like macOS and iOS. Integrations with Microsoft Services: Microsoft Edge seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft services and applications, providing a more cohesive experience within the Microsoft ecosystem. Cortana Integration: The built-in virtual assistant, Cortana, can be enabled to provide personal assistance and manage your tasks more efficiently. Reading Mode: Allows users to focus on the content by minimizing distractions found on webpages.

Can Microsoft Edge Run as a Desktop App?

Microsoft Edge is an universal app developed by Microsoft. By default, it is available on desktop versions of Windows 10 as a UWP (Universal Windows Platform) app. However, if you are using an older version of Windows that does not support UWP apps, running Microsoft Edge as a traditional desktop application might be challenging. If you are running a version of Windows that does not support UWP apps, you can still run Microsoft Edge by installing the standalone version of the browser.

How to Install Microsoft Edge as a Desktop Application

For Windows 10 and Later Versions: If you are using a newer version of Windows 10, Microsoft Edge is already installed and ready to use as a desktop app. Simply open the Start menu, search for 'Microsoft Edge', and click on it to launch. For Older Windows Versions: If you are using an older version of Windows that does not support UWP apps, such as Windows 7 or 8, you can download and install the standalone version of Microsoft Edge from the Microsoft website. Visit the Microsoft Edge download page and follow the installation instructions.

Setup and Customization

Once you have installed Microsoft Edge on your desktop, there are some setup and customization steps you can take to enhance your browsing experience:

Setup: During the installation process, you might be asked to choose a startup page, pin Edge to your taskbar for easy access, or set up Cortana integration. Customization: You can customize the appearance of Edge by changing themes, adjusting font sizes, and adding or removing buttons on the address bar. Access these settings by clicking on the three dots in the upper-right corner of the browser window and selecting 'Settings'.

Conclusion

Microsoft Edge is a powerful and versatile browser that can be run as a desktop app on modern versions of Windows, including Windows 10. If you are using an older version of Windows, you might need to install the standalone version of Edge. Despite running as a UWP app, Edge provides a robust set of features and seamless integration with other Microsoft services. Whether you are using it for work, personal use, or just browsing the internet, Microsoft Edge is a capable choice for your desktop needs.