To change your default web browser, install the browser you want, then choose it in your device’s default-app settings. On iPhone, use Settings → Apps → Default Apps → Browser App on supported iOS versions. On Windows 11, use Settings → Apps → Default apps. On Mac, use System Settings → Desktop & Dock → Default web browser. On Android, use Settings → Apps → Default apps → Browser app, although labels vary by manufacturer.
Did you know that many common technical problems have several different solutions depending on the device, software version and what you need to protect? Start with the specific task, make the smallest appropriate change and check the outcome before going further.
At a glance: Identify the exact device and problem, use the built-in controls or an approved application, verify any permissions or security consequences, and test the result. Keep a record of important information before making irreversible changes.
What changing the default browser actually does
Your default browser is the application the operating system normally uses to open web links from other apps. Changing it does not delete your old browser, transfer bookmarks automatically or change the search engine inside every browser. Some apps may still open links in their own built-in viewer.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Change the default browser on iPhone
Install the browser from the App Store. On supported recent iOS versions, open Settings, choose Apps, then Default Apps and Browser App. Select the installed browser. On older iOS versions, the browser’s own entry under Settings may offer Default Browser App. If the option is missing, update the app and check its compatibility.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Change the default browser on Android
Open Settings, choose Apps, then Default apps or Choose default apps, and select Browser app. Pick the browser you prefer. Samsung, Pixel and other manufacturers may use slightly different menus. If the new browser is not listed, install and open it first.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Change the default browser on Windows 11
Open Settings → Apps → Default apps. Search for the browser you want, select it and use the Set default option where available. Windows may display associations for HTTP, HTTPS and file types. Review those settings if links or local HTML files continue to open elsewhere.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Change the default browser on Windows 10
Open Settings → Apps → Default apps and select the current entry under Web browser. Choose the preferred installed browser. The menu differs from Windows 11, so follow the instructions for the actual version on your computer.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Change the default browser on Mac
Open System Settings → Desktop & Dock and find Default web browser. Select your preferred installed application. On older macOS versions, the option may be in General. If the browser does not appear, install or launch it and try again.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Default browser versus default search engine
The browser is the app that opens websites. The search engine is the service that handles searches typed into its address bar. Changing Chrome to Firefox does not necessarily change Google to DuckDuckGo, and changing a search engine does not change which browser opens links.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Bookmarks and saved passwords
Changing defaults does not automatically import bookmarks or stored passwords. Most browsers offer import features, but the supported data and permissions differ. Review the transfer before deleting an old browser or its profile.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Privacy settings and tracking
Browsers differ in cookie handling, tracking prevention, extensions and account syncing. Choosing a privacy-focused browser can be useful, but no browser makes all internet activity anonymous. Review the actual privacy settings rather than relying on a product label.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Why links still open in the old browser
Some apps use their own in-app browser. Others may have a separate link-opening preference. Check operating-system defaults, protocol associations and app-specific settings. Restarting an affected app may help it recognise a recent change.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
How to test the change
After changing the default, open a link from a trusted note or email. Check which browser appears. Then test a local HTML file if that matters to your workflow. Do not test with a suspicious message or unknown URL.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
What if the preferred browser is missing
Confirm that the app is installed, compatible and updated. On a managed work or school device, policies may restrict default applications. Do not attempt to bypass those controls; ask the administrator about supported options.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Worked example: changing Safari to Chrome
Install Chrome, open the relevant iPhone Default Apps settings and choose Chrome under Browser App. Tap a safe web link in another app and check that Chrome opens. Safari remains installed; you can switch back later.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Worked example: changing Edge to Firefox
Install Firefox on Windows 11, open Default apps, select Firefox and choose Set default if offered. Test a link. If an HTML file still opens elsewhere, inspect the file association separately.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
When not to change your default browser
If your issue is only that one website is slow or an account will not sign in, first investigate that specific site. A browser change can be a useful comparison, but it is not a guaranteed fix for internet outages, account errors or unsafe extensions.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Official sources
Apple explains changing default apps on iPhone. Microsoft documents Windows default apps. Apple explains Mac default browser settings.
Before taking the next step, check the current device or software version, the information you may change and the result you expect. Use the official feature rather than a third-party shortcut when privacy or account access matters.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Chrome as my default browser on iPhone?
Yes, on supported iOS versions when Chrome is installed and offers the default-browser capability.
Will changing browsers delete Safari?
No. Changing the default does not uninstall Safari.
Why does a link still open in an app?
Some apps have built-in browsers or their own link-opening settings.
Does changing browsers move bookmarks?
Not automatically; use a supported import or sync process.
Can I switch back?
Yes. Return to the device’s default browser settings and select the previous browser.
Is browser choice the same as search engine choice?
No. They are separate settings.
The useful takeaway
Choose the safest method that accomplishes the intended result, verify it works, and avoid exposing private information. If the interface differs, use the linked official instructions for your current software version.
Reviewed November 2026. Features and menus may change with software updates.