Do you use Microsoft Edge?
Unfortunately, Microsoft doesn't care whether you do or not, they're force-installing the browser on Windows 10 systems as part of their updates.
Ostensibly, this is because the company is retiring their older versions of Edge and replacing them with the new Chromium-based Edge browser.
In order to make sure that all of the old versions are expunged, the company has declared the latest OS update to be mandatory, and it includes the latest rendition of the Edge browser.
Do you have a choice of browser?
Although the company's explanation makes perfect sense, it is nonetheless raising the hackles of a significant portion of the Windows user base, who doesn't use or even like the Edge browser. In any case, like it or not, use it or not, you're getting it.
To be clear, Microsoft is actually pushing out a pair of updates designed to do the deed. The first and most impactful of these is KB457654, which is designed to replace the legacy version of Edge on Windows 10 versions 1809, 1903, 1909, and 2004.
The second update is KB4576753 and is designed to specifically target Windows 10 build 1803.
The update will put the Edge browser in place
While it is possible to prevent the updates from being installed, honestly, it's more trouble than it's worth. There's no fighting city hall, and the company has made the decision. You're better off just letting the update happen and then, if you decide you don't want the new Edge browser, just go in behind the update and uninstall it. It's not a perfect solution, but to do anything else will cause you to miss out on important security patches. Eventually, the company will find a way to retire the legacy browser and install the new Edge anyway.
Our perspective
It's frustrating for some users, but that's the lay of the land. Just be aware, and if you don't use Edge, remove it when the update makes the switch.
~ William Ward observed. "The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails.” ~
By Denis Wilson and Melissa Stockwell
Thanks for reading this short post. For more tips on thriving with small business technology, check out the other blog posts at DWPIA Blogs. You can also find me on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
I'm Denis Wilson, President and Principal Consultant for DWP Information Architects. We build people/process/technology solutions to create better business outcomes for smaller enterprises in Los Angeles. We have created cost-effective office productivity and out-sourced service solutions for over 20 years, focusing principally on manufacturing, professional services, and healthcare. Our hallmarks are cloud and on-premises network reliability, cost-effective cybersecurity, and livable small business regulatory compliance.
I am also a published author and speaker, working extensively with business and professional associations to provide small business technology education programs. Contact me if you would like me to speak at your association
