Configurating Private Settings in Edge

Configuring Microsoft Edge

Although many users might assume that the default settings of Microsoft Edge suffice for their browsing needs, customization can significantly enhance user experience and privacy. Users should consider adjusting configurations, such as the homepage, especially if they don't utilize the default startup page. This tailored approach is crucial in scenarios involving shared computers—like a friend’s device or family PC—where maintaining privacy is paramount. Regularly managing temporary internet files also plays a significant role in conserving disk space and ensuring efficient performance.

InPrivate Browsing

One of the standout features designed for privacy is the InPrivate browsing mode in Edge. This mode helps to protect user data by preventing the browser from retaining a variety of information such as browsing history, temporary internet files, form data, cookies, usernames, and passwords. Consequently, using InPrivate browsing leaves almost no trace of the user's online activity. To initiate this feature, users can click on the More Actions menu (represented by three dots in the upper right corner) and select "New InPrivate Window." A new window will open with a distinct blue and white InPrivate indicator to confirm the mode is active. Closing this window will end the InPrivate session.

Customizing Edge Settings

To continue personalizing Edge, users should navigate back to the More Actions menu and choose "Settings." Here, users can opt for a light or dark theme according to their preferences using the drop-down option provided. One practical configuration is the visibility setting for the favorites bar, which can be toggled on to provide quick access to bookmarked pages. Additionally, users can import favorites from other browsers and designate a specific page or new tab as their startup page upon launching Edge.

Key Customizable Settings

The customization options include:

• Homepage: This setting determines which webpage loads each time the browser is started.

• Startup Preferences: Users can set Edge to open with previously accessed pages or to load a designated homepage.

• Browsing History Management: Regular purging of temporary files and cookies helps regain disk space and enhances the browser's performance. The browsing history, displayed below the address bar, can assist in revisiting past pages.

Understanding Cookies and Advanced Settings

Cookies, integral to user experience, are small files that store personal information related to web preferences. They come in two types: session cookies that are deleted upon closing the browser, and persistent cookies which have an expiration date embedded within them. The distinction between first-party and third-party cookies is also important; first-party cookies originate from the current domain while third-party cookies are linked to external domains, often related to advertising. Users can instruct Edge to block all cookies, only third-party cookies, or opt not to block any.

To access advanced settings, users should click the More Actions menu, navigate to Settings, scroll down, and select "View Advanced Settings." Among these settings are:

• Home Button: Toggle the home button’s visibility and set a particular webpage as the homepage.

• Pop-up Blocker: Users can block or allow pop-ups as necessary.

• Caret Browsing: Enabling caret browsing allows users to navigate and select text using the keyboard.

Security and Privacy Protections

With a focus on secure browsing, Edge offers a variety of privacy settings safeguarding personal information online. These settings include options to save passwords or form entries, and a Do Not Track request can be sent to websites if the default sharing option is disabled. Edge also allows setting the preferred search engine, with Bing as the default.

Additional advanced settings include;

• Cookie Management: Options to manage how cookies are stored.

• Page Prediction: Utilizing browsing history for faster access to frequently visited sites.

• Smart Screen Filter: A built-in tool designed to block dangerous sites and downloads from infecting the computer. This feature analyzes downloads against a database of known malicious applications, ensuring user safety.

In conclusion, customizing Microsoft Edge not only streamlines the browsing experience but also significantly enhances privacy and security, making it a valuable practice for all users.