Microsoft Edge is a popular web browser known for its speed, security, and seamless integration with the Windows operating system. One of the common requirements for many users is the ability to open links in a new window, rather than in a new tab within the same window. This can be particularly useful for multitasking, comparing information across different websites, or simply for organizing your browsing experience. In this article, we will delve into the steps and settings required to get Edge to open links in a new window, exploring the browser’s capabilities and customization options in depth.
Understanding Microsoft Edge’s Default Behavior
By default, Microsoft Edge is set to open new links in a new tab within the current window. This behavior is convenient for most users, as it allows for easy navigation between multiple web pages without cluttering the desktop with numerous windows. However, for those who prefer a more traditional browsing experience or have specific workflow requirements, changing this default behavior is necessary.
Why Open Links in a New Window?
There are several reasons why a user might prefer to open links in a new window:
– Multitasking: Opening links in new windows can enhance multitasking capabilities, allowing users to work on multiple tasks simultaneously without the clutter of numerous tabs.
– Organization: For some users, managing multiple windows is easier than managing multiple tabs, especially when dealing with complex research or work projects.
– Comparison: Opening links in new windows makes it easier to compare information side by side, which can be particularly useful for shopping, research, or development purposes.
Configuring Edge for New Window Behavior
Configuring Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window involves a few straightforward steps. While Edge does not offer a direct setting to achieve this for all links, users can utilize the browser’s context menu or keyboard shortcuts to open specific links in new windows.
To open a link in a new window using the context menu:
1. Right-click on the link you wish to open.
2. From the context menu, select “Open in new window.”
Alternatively, you can use a keyboard shortcut for a more efficient experience:
– Press the Shift key while clicking on the link to open it in a new window.
Advanced Configuration and Third-Party Solutions
For users who require a more automated solution or wish to customize their browsing experience further, exploring Edge’s settings and considering third-party extensions can be beneficial.
Edge Settings Exploration
While Microsoft Edge does not provide a built-in option to open all links in new windows by default, exploring the browser’s settings can reveal other useful customization options:
– Startup options: Allow you to choose what Edge displays when it starts, such as a new tab page or a specific set of pages.
– New tab page: Can be customized to show favorite sites, news, or a blank page, which might influence how you manage new links.
Utilizing Extensions for Enhanced Functionality
Microsoft Edge supports a wide range of extensions that can enhance its functionality, including those that can alter how links are opened. Users can visit the Microsoft Edge Add-ons website to find extensions that might offer the functionality they are looking for, such as automatically opening certain types of links in new windows.
Installing Extensions
To install an extension in Microsoft Edge:
– Visit the Microsoft Edge Add-ons website.
– Search for an extension that matches your needs (e.g., “open link in new window”).
– Click on the extension to view its details.
– Click the “Get” button to add the extension to Edge.
– Confirm the installation by clicking “Add Extension” in the prompt.
Best Practices for Managing Multiple Windows
When opening links in new windows, managing these windows efficiently becomes crucial for a productive browsing experience. Here are some best practices:
– Use the Taskbar: Pin frequently used windows or applications to the taskbar for easy access.
– Window Arrangement: Use Windows’ built-in features like Snap Assist to arrange windows side by side for comparison or multitasking.
– Regularly Clean Up: Periodically close unused windows to avoid clutter and maintain a organized desktop.
Enhancing Productivity with Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge is designed to be a productive tool, offering features like immersive reader, built-in learning tools, and integration with other Microsoft services. By leveraging these features and customizing the browser to open links in new windows, users can create a browsing experience that suits their workflow and preferences.
In conclusion, while Microsoft Edge does not offer a straightforward setting to open all links in new windows, users can achieve this functionality through context menu options, keyboard shortcuts, or by exploring third-party extensions. By understanding the browser’s default behavior, utilizing its customization options, and adopting best practices for window management, users can enhance their browsing experience and productivity with Microsoft Edge. Whether for multitasking, organization, or comparison, configuring Edge to open links in new windows can be a powerful way to tailor your web browsing to your specific needs.
What are the benefits of opening links in a new window in Microsoft Edge?
Opening links in a new window in Microsoft Edge provides several benefits, including improved multitasking and organization. When links are opened in a new window, users can easily switch between multiple windows and compare information side by side. This feature is particularly useful for researchers, students, and professionals who need to access multiple sources of information simultaneously. By opening links in a new window, users can also avoid cluttering their main browsing window with multiple tabs, making it easier to focus on the task at hand.
In addition to improving multitasking and organization, opening links in a new window in Microsoft Edge also enhances user experience. Users can customize their browsing experience by setting different window sizes, layouts, and zoom levels for each window, allowing them to optimize their workflow and productivity. Furthermore, opening links in a new window helps to prevent accidental closure of important tabs, as each window is a separate entity that can be closed independently. By taking advantage of this feature, users can work more efficiently and effectively, making the most out of their browsing experience in Microsoft Edge.
How do I configure Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window by default?
To configure Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window by default, users need to access the browser’s settings. This can be done by clicking on the three dots in the upper right corner of the browser window and selecting “Settings” from the drop-down menu. In the Settings panel, users need to scroll down to the “System” section and click on the “Open Microsoft Edge with” drop-down menu. From here, users can select the “New window” option to set Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window by default.
Once the setting is changed, Microsoft Edge will open all links in a new window, unless specified otherwise by the user. Users can also customize this setting for specific types of links, such as links from other applications or links from within the browser itself. Additionally, users can use the “Target” attribute in HTML to specify whether a link should be opened in a new window or not. By configuring Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window by default, users can streamline their browsing experience and improve their productivity, making it easier to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
Can I configure Microsoft Edge to open specific links in a new window?
Yes, users can configure Microsoft Edge to open specific links in a new window. This can be done by using the “Target” attribute in HTML or by using a third-party extension. The “Target” attribute allows users to specify whether a link should be opened in a new window or not. For example, users can add the “_blank” value to the “Target” attribute to open a link in a new window. This feature is particularly useful for web developers who want to control how links are opened on their website.
In addition to using the “Target” attribute, users can also use third-party extensions to configure Microsoft Edge to open specific links in a new window. These extensions can be installed from the Microsoft Edge Add-ons store and can provide users with more flexibility and control over how links are opened. For example, some extensions allow users to specify certain keywords or domains that should always be opened in a new window. By using these extensions, users can customize their browsing experience and open specific links in a new window, making it easier to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
How do I open a link in a new window in Microsoft Edge using the context menu?
To open a link in a new window in Microsoft Edge using the context menu, users need to right-click on the link and select “Open in new window” from the context menu. This will open the link in a new window, allowing users to view the content without leaving the current page. The context menu provides a quick and easy way to open links in a new window, without having to change the default browser settings.
In addition to using the context menu, users can also use keyboard shortcuts to open links in a new window. For example, users can press the “Ctrl” key and click on a link to open it in a new tab, or press the “Shift” key and click on a link to open it in a new window. By using the context menu or keyboard shortcuts, users can quickly and easily open links in a new window, making it easier to multitask and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Can I configure Microsoft Edge to open links in a new tab instead of a new window?
Yes, users can configure Microsoft Edge to open links in a new tab instead of a new window. This can be done by accessing the browser’s settings and changing the default behavior for opening links. In the Settings panel, users need to scroll down to the “System” section and click on the “Open Microsoft Edge with” drop-down menu. From here, users can select the “New tab” option to set Microsoft Edge to open links in a new tab instead of a new window.
In addition to changing the default behavior, users can also use keyboard shortcuts to open links in a new tab. For example, users can press the “Ctrl” key and click on a link to open it in a new tab. By configuring Microsoft Edge to open links in a new tab, users can keep their browsing experience organized and clutter-free, making it easier to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. Furthermore, opening links in a new tab allows users to easily switch between multiple tabs and compare information side by side.
How do I know if a link will open in a new window or a new tab in Microsoft Edge?
To determine if a link will open in a new window or a new tab in Microsoft Edge, users can check the link’s properties or the browser’s settings. If the link has the “_blank” value in its “Target” attribute, it will open in a new window. Otherwise, it will open in the current window or a new tab, depending on the browser’s settings. Users can also check the browser’s settings to see if it is configured to open links in a new window or a new tab by default.
In addition to checking the link’s properties or the browser’s settings, users can also use visual cues to determine if a link will open in a new window or a new tab. For example, some links may have an icon or a tooltip that indicates they will open in a new window. By checking the link’s properties, the browser’s settings, or using visual cues, users can determine if a link will open in a new window or a new tab, making it easier to manage their browsing experience and avoid unexpected behavior.
Can I use group policy to configure Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window for all users?
Yes, administrators can use group policy to configure Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window for all users in an organization. This can be done by creating a group policy object that sets the default behavior for opening links in Microsoft Edge. The group policy object can be applied to all users in the organization, ensuring that links are opened in a new window consistently across all devices.
In addition to using group policy, administrators can also use Microsoft Intune or other mobile device management solutions to configure Microsoft Edge settings for all users. These solutions provide a centralized way to manage browser settings and ensure that all users have a consistent browsing experience. By using group policy or mobile device management solutions, administrators can easily configure Microsoft Edge to open links in a new window for all users, making it easier to manage and secure the browsing experience across the organization.