If you’re using a slower or older computer, optimizing your browser for performance can significantly enhance your overall experience. Microsoft Edge, the default browser for Windows 10 and 11, is built on the Chromium engine and offers good speed and compatibility. However, without some adjustments, it may still lag on low-spec machines. Below are eight effective ways to optimize Microsoft Edge for snappier browsing on slower computers.
1. Disable Unnecessary Extensions
Extensions can be helpful, but they also consume valuable system resources. To improve browser speed, it’s best to remove or disable any extensions you don’t use regularly.
- Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of Edge.
- Select Extensions.
- Disable or remove the ones you don’t need.
Fewer extensions mean fewer background processes, helping Edge run faster on older hardware.
2. Use Efficiency Mode
Microsoft Edge features an Efficiency mode tailored for optimizing power and performance. This feature limits background activity and reduces resource usage when your device is under strain.
To activate it:
- Go to Settings.
- Click System and Performance.
- Under Optimize Performance, toggle Efficiency mode to On.
When enabled, it helps conserve memory and CPU cycles—ideal for aging computers.
3. Set Startup Boost Smartly
Startup Boost allows Edge to launch quicker by running background processes after you log in. While this can speed up opening the browser, it may slow down the general startup of slower systems.
If you’re noticing sluggish overall performance after booting, try disabling it:
- Open Settings > System and Performance.
- Toggle Startup Boost to Off.
4. Use Sleeping Tabs
One of Edge’s most powerful features for saving memory is Sleeping Tabs. This shifts inactive tabs into a suspended state, reducing CPU and RAM usage significantly.
- Navigate to Settings > System and Performance.
- Enable Save resources with sleeping tabs.
- Set how quickly tabs should go to sleep — the shorter the better for performance.
5. Clear Browsing Data Regularly
Over time, accumulated cache, cookies, and site data can slow down Edge. Regular clean-ups can help maintain optimal speed, particularly on devices with limited storage or slower hard drives.
To clear your browsing data:
- Open Edge and press Ctrl + Shift + Delete.
- Select what you want to clear: cached images, cookies, history.
- Click Clear now.
6. Enable Hardware Acceleration Wisely
Hardware acceleration uses your GPU to perform graphics-intensive tasks. On modern systems, this improves performance. However, on older computers, it could cause issues.
To toggle hardware acceleration:
- Go to Settings > System and Performance.
- Scroll to Use hardware acceleration when available.
- Try toggling it off if you’re experiencing stuttering or bugs.
7. Use a Lighter Homepage
The default Edge homepage can be resource-intensive, loading news, links, and images. Choosing a minimalistic start page—or even a blank one—can sharply reduce load times on launch.
To change your homepage:
- Open Settings > Start, home, and new tabs.
- Select Open a specific page or pages and enter a fast-loading site (or
about:blank).
8. Disable Background Apps
By default, Edge continues to run background processes even after it’s closed. On slower PCs, this can waste resources.
To stop this behavior:
- Navigate to Settings > System and Performance.
- Turn off Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft Edge can perform well on older or resource-constrained computers, but only if optimized appropriately. By implementing these eight strategies—from managing extensions to adjusting system-level settings—you can transform your Edge experience from sluggish to smooth.
With careful tuning and occasional maintenance, even older PCs can enjoy a responsive and efficient browsing environment today.