To get the latest version of your browser, you need to access the settings menu. Open the browser and click on the three dots located in the top right corner of the window. Move your mouse down the list until you find the option that says Help and feedback. Click on that, and then select About Microsoft Edge from the side menu. The browser will automatically check for new software and install it for you. You must restart the browser to complete the process. This ensures you have the newest security patches and features.
Tutorial on how to update Microsoft Edge
This section will guide you through the manual process of checking for upgrades. Even though the software usually does this on its own, sometimes it gets stuck or needs a push. Following these steps ensures your computer stays safe from threats.
Step 1: Open the Microsoft Edge browser on your computer.
You need to have the program running to access its internal settings. Look for the icon that looks like a blue and green wave on your desktop or taskbar. Click it once to launch the window.
Step 2: Click on the three horizontal dots in the top right corner.
This button is the main menu for the entire application. It is officially called the Settings and More menu. When you click it, a long drop-down list of options will appear on your screen.
Step 3: Hover your mouse cursor over the Help and feedback option.
You will find this option near the very bottom of the list. You do not need to click it yet. Just hold your mouse over the text so a smaller side menu pops out to the left or right.
Step 4: Click on the selection labeled About Microsoft Edge.
This is the specific page where the browser reports its current status. Clicking this takes you away from your current web page. It opens a settings tab that shows version numbers and licensing information.
Step 5: Wait for the browser to check for updates and download them.
As soon as this page opens, the software starts working automatically. It talks to the central servers to see if a newer version exists. If one is available, it will start downloading the files without you needing to press anything else.
Step 6: Click the Restart button to finish the installation.
Once the files are downloaded and prepared, a button will appear on the right side of the screen. You must click this button to apply the changes. The browser will close and reopen instantly with all your tabs restored.
After you complete this action, the browser will reopen exactly where you left off. You might see a welcome screen that highlights new features or tools that were just installed. You can close that tab and continue surfing the web with the confidence that your security is up to date.
Tips regarding how to update Microsoft Edge
- If you are on a metered internet connection like a mobile hotspot, the browser might not download large files automatically to save your data.
- Pay attention to the three dots in the corner because they can change color to green or red if an upgrade has been waiting for a long time.
- You should close other heavy applications before restarting the browser to ensure the computer runs smoothly during the switch.
- If you use a computer provided by your school or workplace, the system administrator might control when these changes happen, so you might not be able to do it yourself.
- Mac users follow a very similar process, but the menu might look slightly different depending on the version of macOS they are running.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my browser not updating automatically?
Sometimes the automatic process gets paused if the browser has not been closed in a long time. Background processes can also get stuck. A simple restart of your computer often fixes this glitch.
Do I need to pay to get the latest version?
No, the software is completely free to use and upgrade. Microsoft provides these improvements to keep users safe and to add new tools. You should never pay for a browser upgrade.
Will I lose my bookmarks or passwords?
Your personal data is safe during this process. The installation only changes the system files and leaves your profile data alone. All your favorites and saved logins will be there when it reopens.
How often does a new version come out?
Major changes usually happen every four weeks or so. Smaller security fixes can happen more frequently if a threat is discovered. It is a continuous cycle of improvement.
Can I go back to an older version?
Going back to an older version is difficult and generally not recommended for average users. Older versions have security holes that hackers can exploit. It is always safer to stay on the current release.
Summary
- Open the Microsoft Edge browser.
- Click the three dots menu icon.
- Hover over Help and feedback.
- Select About Microsoft Edge.
- Allow the download to complete.
- Click Restart to finish.
Conclusion
Keeping your software current is one of the most important habits you can build for digital safety. It is very similar to changing the oil in your car or locking your front door at night. When you neglect this simple task, you leave windows open for bad actors to access your personal information. The developers at Microsoft work constantly to patch holes and fix bugs. By installing their work, you are putting a shield up against viruses and malware.
Beyond security, you also get the benefit of better performance. Newer versions of the browser often load pages faster and use less battery power on laptops. They also come with handy tools like better screenshot capabilities or shopping assistants. The process takes less than two minutes, but it saves you from headaches down the road.
If you ever find that your browsing experience feels slow or glitchy, checking the version number should be your first step. It is a quick fix that solves many common problems. Now that you know exactly how to update microsoft edge, you can help your friends and family keep their computers running smoothly too. Make it a habit to check this setting once a month. It is a small effort that pays off in peace of mind and a better internet experience. Stay safe and happy browsing.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.