Many users and IT admins have expressed frustration with Microsoft’s decision to force users to open links in Microsoft Edge, especially when it’s not their default browser. This move has caused unnecessary headaches for small businesses, and unsurprisingly; many are looking for ways to stop Outlook and Teams from opening links in Edge. In this article, we’ll explore some options that can help you take control of your browser preferences, such as changing the policy if you have admin rights or using a tool like MSEdgeRedirect to redirect links to your default browser. With these solutions, you can enjoy a seamless and consistent browsing experience without dealing with the inconvenience of being forced into using Microsoft Edge.
Microsoft Outlook and Teams Opening Links in Edge Browser
Microsoft is set to roll out a change that will force web links from Azure Active Directory (AAD) accounts and Microsoft (MSA) accounts in the Outlook for Windows app to open in Microsoft Edge, according to messages from the Microsoft 365 admin center posted on Reddit. The change follows Microsoft’s decision to force users into Edge when clicking on links in the Widgets system in Windows 11 and the search experience, regardless of the default browser choice. While this will not affect the default browser setting in Windows, it is another instance of Microsoft 365 and Windows ignoring default browser choices for links.
IT Admins are Frustrated
Several IT administrators have expressed dissatisfaction with Microsoft’s latest move on Reddit. According to several threads on the platform, Microsoft 365 Enterprise IT admins will have the option to modify the policy. This change could be incredibly confusing for less tech-savvy users who may click on a link in Outlook and believe that they have lost their favorites because it did not open in their usual browser. However, those using Microsoft 365 for business will need to handle the change on individual machines, which could cause a lot of unnecessary hassle for small businesses.
Force Microsoft Outlook and Teams Opening Links in Default Browser using MSEdgeRedirect
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Future versions of the app will consist of additional ways to improve functionality. We can prevent links from opening in a browser other than the default using MSEdgeRedirect App. This tool functions by filtering and forwarding the command line arguments of Microsoft Edge processes into the default browser instead of hooking into the Microsoft Edge: handler. This approach is designed to provide more excellent resistance to future changes. The tool also includes an Image File Execution Options mode that functions similarly to the previous version of EdgeDeflector.
Download MSEdgeRedirect on GitHub
Microsoft’s Promises to Respect User Choices
Microsoft’s recent notifications to IT administrators come mere weeks after it pledged to make substantial changes. The changes include how Windows manages which apps open specific files or links by default. The company stated that it believed it had a duty to uphold user choices and that it was imperative to set an example using its Microsoft products. Compelling users to use Microsoft Edge and undermining their choice of default browsers is not good. Microsoft is doing the opposite of respecting user choice. It is unacceptable and disappointing that Microsoft continues to engage in such practices.
FAQs
Can I change the default browser setting in Windows?
Yes, you can change the default browser setting in Windows. Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps and select your preferred browser.
Will Microsoft continue to force users into using Edge?
It’s unclear. Microsoft may or may not continue to force users into using Edge. But the company has promised to respect user choices.
What is MSEdgeRedirect?
MSEdgeRedirect is an app that redirects links to your default browser instead of Microsoft Edge.
Can I use MSEdgeRedirect on a Mac?
No, MSEdgeRedirect is only available for Windows.
Wrap Up
As mentioned earlier, If you are among those who are frustrated with Microsoft Outlook and Teams opening links in Edge instead of your default browser, there are some options available to you. Firstly, if you have admin rights, you can change the policy to allow links to open in your preferred browser. This option is only available for those using Microsoft 365 Enterprise, while those on Microsoft 365 for business need to adjust the policy on individual machines.
Secondly, You may not have admin rights and act as a regular user or prefer a different approach; Then you can use MSEdgeRedirect. This tool can redirect links to your default browser. It can filter and forward the command line arguments of Microsoft Edge processes. The app is designed to provide excellent resistance to future changes. It also includes an Image File Execution Options mode that functions similarly to the previous version of EdgeDeflector. While Microsoft’s decision to force users into using Edge is frustrating for IT admins and small businesses, hopefully, the company will keep its promise to respect user choices in the future.
Selva Ganesh is the Chief Editor of this Blog. He is a Computer Science Engineer, An experienced Android Developer, Professional Blogger with 8+ years in the field. He completed courses about Google News Initiative. He runs Android Infotech which offers Problem Solving Articles around the globe.
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