With a rather dismal reputation with its Internet Explorer browser, Microsoft had to come up with something to rival the giants in the Internet web browser market which had essentially been taken over by the likes of Google with its Google Chrome. That's where Microsoft Edge comes into play.
The new web browser by MS is a completely new browser that is powered by the same open source software called Chromium, a project started by Google employees which eventually lead to the creation of the Chrome browser.
With that said, the new Microsoft Edge browser is certainly faster a far more compatible with web technologies than Internet Explorer ever was. It is powered by Microsoft's EdgeHTML which attempts to keep up with standards.
The design and layout of Microsoft Edge have a distinct Microsoft look to them, which means it matches quite well with its operating systems, especially Windows 10. The settings and customization options include are not too dissimilar from Google Chrome, so there's an element of familiarity for those switching from that browser.
- The new Microsoft Edge will add a shortcut to the desktop. If the current version of Microsoft Edge already has a shortcut, it will be replaced. By default, most protocols that Microsoft Edge handles will be migrated to the new Microsoft Edge. The current version of Microsoft Edge will be hidden from UX surfaces in the OS.
- Microsoft Edge is the new, default web browser for Windows 10, helping you to experience modern web standards, better performance, improved security, and increased reliability. Microsoft Edge lets you stay up-to-date through the Microsoft Store and to manage your enterprise through Group Policy or your mobile device management (MDM) tools.
In terms of system resources, the browser is similar to other modern browsers in that it's fast and responsive. However during tests, it seems a bit faster than Chrome with many tabs open.
Microsoft Edge is the default web browser on Windows 10, Windows 10 Mobile, Xbox One and Xbox Series X and Series S consoles, replacing Internet Explorer 11 and Internet Explorer Mobile. As its development and release is dependent on the model of Windows as a service, it is not included in Windows 10 Enterprise Long-Term Servicing Channel.
When increasing the functionality of this web browser, you're given access to a multitude of different extensions. You may access extensions from Google's Chrome store if you wish, however Microsoft does maintain its own store which is exclusively for Edge users.
Overall, the look and feel of Microsoft Edge is a very welcome change from the days of Internet Explorer and it seems to be the right path taken by choosing the widely utilized Chromium source. Speed has certainly improved and the different customization options available for users of Microsoft's browser are welcome.
Features and highlights
- World-class performance: improved speed over other Microsoft browsers
- More privacy control: includes built-in features for online privacy
- Focus on productivity: Complete customization of web browsing
- Integration with Bing: Microsoft's rewards program with Bing
Microsoft Edge 90.0.818.42 on 32-bit and 64-bit PCs
This download is licensed as freeware for the Windows (32-bit and 64-bit) operating system on a laptop or desktop PC from web browsers without restrictions. Microsoft Edge 90.0.818.42 is available to all software users as a free download for Windows.
Filed under:Microsoft Edge Browser For Windows 10
- Microsoft Edge Download
- Freeware Web Browsers
- Major release: Microsoft Edge 90.0
- Internet Browsing Software