How to Make Internet Explorer My Default Browser

If your computer has multiple Web browsers installed on it and one that you're not completely happy with has become the default browser over your personal favorite, Internet Explorer, you can easily switch the default back to the one you like. Most versions of Internet Explorer can be changed to the default browser by using the same method. The only deviant is the earlier version, Internet Explorer 2.x, but making the change on that browser is easily done as well.

Instructions

Internet Explorer Version 2.x

1. Start up Internet Explorer.

2. Click on "View" and a drop-down menu will appear. The menu shows several items.

3. Scroll down to "Options" on the drop-down menu and click on it.

4. Click on the "Advanced" tab in the "Options" screen.

5. Check the box beside "On startup, perform check for default browser" and click on "OK."

6. Close Internet Explorer and then start it again and a message will appear that asks if you want to make Internet Explorer your default browser. Click on "Yes" to make the change.

Newer Versions of Internet Explorer

1. Start up Internet Explorer.

2. Click on "Tools" on the toolbar at the top of the screen. A drop-down menu will appear.

3. Click on "Internet Options."

4. Click on the "Programs" tab on the "Internet Options" screen.

5. Click on the box beside "Tell me if Internet Explorer is not the default web browser" and click on "OK." If the "Make default" box is grayed out, Internet Explorer is already your default browser. If it isn't, continue to the next step.

6. Close Internet Explorer and start it again and you'll be asked if you want to make Internet Explorer your default browser. Click on "Yes."

Tips & Warnings

• If you click on the "Programs" tab and the "Make default" box isn't grayed out, you can click on it and make Internet Explorer your default browser without having to close the browser and start it up again.

References

• How to Make Internet Explorer the Default Web Browser