Tired of Edge Opening Office Files? Here's How to Stop It

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Tired of Edge hogging your Office files? Let’s fix that!

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It’s super convenient that Microsoft Edge can open your Word docs, spreadsheets, and presentations right in the browser. Saves you storage space, right? But sometimes, you just want to download the darn thing. If Edge’s “Open Office Files in the Browser” setting is driving you nuts, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through two simple methods to reclaim control over your Office files.

Method 1: Taming Edge Through Settings

This is the easiest way to stop Edge from opening Office files directly in the browser. Just follow these quick steps:

1. Fire up Edge: Open your Edge browser. You know, the blue swirly icon.
2. Three Dots of Power: Click on the three horizontal dots hiding in the upper right corner. This is where all the magic happens.
3. Settings Time: Head down to Settings. It’s pretty self-explanatory.
4. Downloads: In the Settings menu, locate and click on the Downloads option.
5. Flip the Switch: You’ll see a toggle switch labeled Open Office files in the browser. Toggle that bad boy off. Done!

Method 2: Registry Editor for the Win (Use with Caution!)

This method involves tweaking the Windows Registry. Warning: Messing around in the Registry can cause problems if you’re not careful. Seriously, proceed with caution! Create a system restore point and back up your Registry before you do anything. We’re not kidding. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Run Regedit: Open the Run command box (Windows key + R) and type regedit. Hit OK and click Yes if the User Account Control (UAC) prompt pops up. This opens the Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to the Key: Carefully navigate to this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Edge
3. Create the Edge Key (If Missing): If you don’t see an “Edge” key under “Microsoft,” you need to create one. Right-click on the “Microsoft” key, select New > Key, and name it “Edge.”
4. Create the Value: Right-click in the empty space on the right side of the Registry Editor and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name this new value QuickViewOfficeFilesEnabled.
5. Modify the Value: Right-click on QuickViewOfficeFilesEnabled and select Modify. Enter 0 in the Value data field. Click OK to save the change.
6. Reboot: Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Now, when you open Edge, that pesky setting will be turned off and grayed out. There will even be a little lock icon, so no one can turn it back on! To revert these changes, simply delete the “QuickViewOfficeFilesEnabled” value and restart your computer.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

• How do I change my Edge settings (in general)? Easy peasy! Open Edge, click the three dots, and choose Settings. You’ll find everything you need there.
• How do I stop Excel from opening links in Edge? If Excel links are always opening in Edge, it’s because Edge is set as your default browser for HTTP and HTTPS links. Change your default browser in Windows settings (Apps > Default apps) to fix this.
• Does Microsoft Office come with Microsoft Edge? Nope, they’re separate. You can download Edge for free from Microsoft’s website.
• How do I open an Office document in Edge (if I want to)? You can use the Office extension for Edge, which provides better compatibility for various Office file formats.
• Is Microsoft Word free on Chromebook? Yes! The online version of Word is free for anyone with a Microsoft account. You can use it in any browser, including on a Chromebook.

Conclusion: Take Back Control!

Now you’re armed with the knowledge to wrestle control of your Office files away from Edge. Whether you prefer the quick settings tweak or the more permanent Registry edit, you’re in charge now. No more unwanted browser previews!

We’d love to hear about your experience. Did these methods work for you? Share your thoughts and any other tips you might have in the comments below!