How to remove browser hijacker from Microsoft Edge

If you’re using Microsoft Edge and notice strange behaviour, such as pop-ups that won’t stop, your homepage changed without your consent, or your search engine redirecting you to unfamiliar sites, your browser may have been hijacked or infected with unwanted software. Though Edge is a modern, well-designed browser, it is not immune to malware, adware, and browser hijackers that exploit vulnerabilities or misconfigurations. The good news is that you can take active steps to regain control of your browser, restore it to normal, and protect yourself from future threats.

 

 

Signs that your Edge browser might be infected

A hijacked or infected browser often manifests in ways that go beyond simple quirks. You may open Edge and find that your homepage has changed to a different search provider, or a new tab page displays content you didn’t configure. Repeated pop-ups, even when you aren’t actively browsing, can indicate that adware or a hijacker is embedded in your system. If your searches are automatically redirected to unfamiliar domains or your browser has added unknown extensions, these are strong red flags. Slowed performance, such as tabs taking longer to load, Edge consuming more memory than usual, or your computer getting hotter for no obvious reason, can all hint that there are hidden processes running in the background that you didn’t authorize. Recognising these symptoms early can make removal much simpler.

How to prevent Microsoft Edge from being hijacked in the future

There are a number of common pathways through which unwanted software can infect Microsoft Edge. Often, the root cause is an installer for a seemingly legitimate free application that contains hidden bundled components, which push browser extensions or change settings without clear disclosure.

Sometimes, visiting a compromised website or clicking on a deceptive pop-up can trigger the installation of adware or browser extensions that redirect your traffic, display excessive ads, or alter your search behaviour. In other cases, malicious browser extensions themselves might be introduced, either via sideloading or through coercive permission requests that users approve without reading. Some hijackers take advantage of browser policy settings, particularly on Windows, where they insert hidden policies that prevent changes to search engine settings or the removal of extensions, effectively resisting normal fixes.

To avoid installing browser hijackers, always download software from official websites or trusted stores. When an installer offers a “custom” or “advanced” settings, choose it and uncheck any optional extras you don’t recognise. Be cautious when clicking links, especially those in unsolicited emails, messages, or ads, and avoid websites that prompt you to install unusual browser extensions or plugins. Keeping your operating system, browser, and applications up to date is essential, as many hijackers exploit known vulnerabilities that updates have since patched.

Disable browser extensions you don’t need and periodically review remaining ones to ensure they still serve a purpose. If you connect to public or untrusted Wi-Fi, use a VPN or avoid downloading files while connected. Finally, maintain healthy habits like backing up important data and using strong passwords to mitigate broader risk to your system.

Remove browser hijacker from Microsoft Edge

A hijacked browser is far more than an inconvenience. Besides the annoyance of excessive ads or redirects, you may be routed to websites controlled by attackers, your searches may be monitored, and your behavior may be used to generate revenue for someone else. In some cases, browser hijackers are a stepping-stone to more dangerous malware installs, credential theft, or identity compromise.

If Edge is behaving oddly (redirects, pop-ups, changed settings), you’re likely dealing with a browser hijacker or companion malware. Scan your device for malware, remove suspicious apps and extensions, reset browser settings, and clear out any hidden policies.

Run a full system scan with a reliable security utility

Before you begin messing with settings, it’s wise to run a comprehensive malware scan on your computer with an anti-malware program. Many hijackers install companion software or change system settings that extend beyond the browser itself. A deep scan will reveal any hidden threats so you can remove them first.

Uninstall suspicious applications

On Windows, open the Settings → Apps → Installed apps section and sort by installation date. Look for unfamiliar apps, especially those you don’t remember installing, and uninstall them. On Mac, browse the Applications folder in Finder and drag any suspicious items to the Trash. Clearing out unknown programs removes components that could be reinstalling or reactivating extensions in Edge.

Inspect and remove unwanted browser extensions

Open Edge, click the three-dot menu, go to Extensions → Manage extensions, and examine each installed extension. If you find one you didn’t install, or you don’t remember why it’s there, remove it. Some malicious extensions are cleverly disguised, so when in doubt, search the extension name online, and if it appears suspect, delete it.

Clear browsing data and reset Edge settings

Still in Edge’s settings, navigate to Privacy, search and services → Clear browsing data and choose to clear cookies, cache, and site data across all time—this helps eliminate lingering traces of hijacker behavior. Then go to Reset settings → Restore settings to their default values. Confirm the reset; this restores your homepage, startup tabs, search engin,e and pinned tabs to a safe, known state and disables extensions temporarily, giving you a clean baseline.

Check for hidden browser policies (Windows only)

On Windows machines, hijackers may install group policies that prevent changes to Edge settings. To clear these, open the Command Prompt as an administrator and execute commands to remove local group policy folders, followed by a command to update policies. This step helps ensure that you’re not fighting an enforced setting that keeps returning.

Restart your device and verify clean behaviour

After the above steps are completed, restart your computer and open Edge again. Perform a search from the address bar to verify you’re using your chosen search engine, check that your homepage is correct, and ensure no new pop-ups emerge. Browse normally for a while and monitor for any unexpected behaviour.

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