Block Edge from running in the background

When Edge runs in the background, it will appear in the system tray. While you can close Edge from here, it is best to make sure it is not running in the background. Follow these methods to disable the background option:

Disable via System Tray iconTurn off via SettingsDisable it using the RegistryConfigure the Group Policy setting.

Turning off is an option. It depends on how you use the browser. If you want to keep getting notifications from websites while it is not open, do not turn it off.

1] Disable via System Tray icon

When Edge is running in the background, you will see its icon in the Taskbar Notification Area.

Right-click on the Edge Taskbar iconUncheck Let Microsoft Edge run in the background option.Restart Microsoft Edge.

1] Turn off via Settings

Type edge://settings/system in the address bar, and press the Enter keyToggle off the Continue running background apps when Microsoft Edge is closed setting.

I have noticed at times that even after disabling the option, Edge keeps running in the background and vice versa. If that is the case with you, follow either the Registry method or the Group Public method. Windows Home users can only use the Registry method.

2] Change Registry setting to disable Edge from running in the background

Open Registry Editor and navigate to- If you are not able to find, then create a new key or folder under Microsoft and name it MicrosoftEdge. Under MicrosoftEdge key, create another key Main. Verify if the path now looks exactly like as below- If yes, then in the Main folder, create a new 32-bit DWORD with name AllowPrelaunch. Double click to open it, and set the value as 0 (Zero). Click OK. This will stop Edge from running in the background.

3] Use Group Policy to change pre-launching settings for Edge

Open Group Policy Editor by typing gpedit.msc in the Run prompt followed by pressing the Enter keyNavigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft EdgeFind the policy which says, “Allows Microsoft Edge to pre-launch at Windows Startup….and each time Edge is closed.”Double click to edit it, and then choose the Disabled radio buttonYou can also choose from the dropdown “Prevent Pre-launching.”Click on the OK button to complete

If you prevent pre-launch, Microsoft Edge won’t pre-launch during Windows sign in, when the system is idle, or each time Microsoft Edge is closed. You may follow any of the methods, but always make sure to check which worked for you. I hope one of them worked for you, and you were able to disable the new Microsoft Edge Chromium from running in the background.