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Latest Software update has changed my Google Chrome operation

Duncan Cameron 0 Reputation points
2025-08-28T01:54:07.72+00:00

I have a desktop running W10 with Chrome as my default browser working to expectations.

I have just bought a new laptop running W11, and had happily set up Chrome as my default browser.

Just had a first W11 software update, and now Chrome does not run when I launch from my Chrome Icon.

Edge and Bing take over despite the Chrome icon's properties showing Chrome.exe

I have checked all the default apps settings for default browser, and uninstalled Family app. Restarted the laptop several times - no change.

I checked my task manager and found that when I launch Chrome, Windows opens both Edge and Chrome! What I now experience when I launch "Chrome", it opens Edge and displays a Bing screen.

When I hit the + for a second screen it opens Chrome and Google. I then x out the first screen and it appears that I am left in Chrome. So despite all the latest technology, I now have to use a workaround for the basic task of browsing.

I prefer Chrome over Edge as it is more accurate when doing the type of searches that I do.

I am concerned that Microsoft's continued harassment of those who want Chrome as their Default Browser is against the spirit of corporate competitiveness.

Microsoft Edge | Browser crashes or stops working | Windows 11
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  1. Hendrix-V 1,195 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-08-28T06:37:06.39+00:00

    Hi Duncan Cameron,

    I'm Hendrix, here to help with your query on the Microsoft Q&A forums.

    Apologies for any inconvenience you are experiencing. I am happy to help you today.

    Here are the recommended steps to resolve Google Chrome issues after a Windows update, please kindly follow step-by-step:

    1 - Check for Third-Party Redirect Tools

    • Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
    • Look for apps like MSEdgeRedirect, EdgeDeflector, or similar.
    • If found, Uninstall them.
    • Restart your PC.

    2 - Repair Chrome Shortcut

    • Right-click your Chrome icon (on Desktop or Taskbar) → Properties.
    • Under Shortcut tab, check Target: "C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe"
    • Remove any extra text like --single-argument or --msedge.
    • Click Apply → OK.

    3 - Adjust Exploit Protection

    • Open Windows Security: Press Win + I → Privacy & Security → Windows Security → App & Browser Control.
    • Scroll to Exploit Protection Settings → Program Settings.
    • Click Add program to customize → Choose exact file path.
    • Navigate to: C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe
    • Add it, then set Hardware-enforced stack protection to Audit only.
    • Save and restart.

    4 - Roll Back the Update (Last Resort)

    • Settings → Windows Update → Update history → Uninstall updates.
    • Find the latest update (e.g., KB5037591) → Uninstall.
    • Pause updates for 1–2 weeks.

    To assist others who might have similar questions and to help us improve our support system, we kindly encourage you to "Accept the answer" if it successfully addressed your concern. Accepting an answer lets other users know that this solution worked for you, and it also helps us track the effectiveness of our support efforts.

    Warm regards,

    Hendrix Vu | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist

    1 person found this answer helpful.
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  2. Paulo GM 50,175 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-08-28T02:55:39.61+00:00

    Hi Duncan,

    By any chance, are you using a third-party app that might be blocking Edge or forcing links to open in a different browser? I used to encounter this issue with MSEdgeRedirect when I had it. If there is, try disabling it or uninstalling it completely as this might alter protocols or app-launch associations.

  3. Duncan Cameron 0 Reputation points
    2025-08-28T12:05:57.2+00:00

    No I do not have any such apps

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