How to Fix Microsoft Edge Not Working on Android

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How to Fix Microsoft Edge Not Working on Android

Microsoft Edge has become a popular choice for mobile browsing, providing a seamless experience with features such as synchronization with desktop settings, a built-in ad blocker, and a user-friendly interface. However, users often encounter issues when using Microsoft Edge on Android devices, from problems with performance to the browser refusing to open altogether. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of troubleshooting methods to help you resolve these issues and get Microsoft Edge working optimally on your Android device.

Understanding Microsoft Edge on Android

Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand how Microsoft Edge operates on Android devices. It’s designed to provide a fast and reliable browsing experience while integrating with Microsoft services, such as Office 365 and OneDrive. Due to the range of devices and Android versions, performance can vary significantly, leading to potential issues.

Common Issues with Microsoft Edge on Android

Here are some typical problems users face with Microsoft Edge on Android:

  1. Edge Crashes or Freezes: The browser may become unresponsive, freezing during loading or while navigating web pages.
  2. Inability to Open: Some users find that the Edge app won’t even launch.
  3. Slow Performance: Pages may take a long time to load, or there may be noticeable lag when scrolling or zooming.
  4. Sync Issues: Problems related to syncing bookmarks, passwords, or browsing history between devices.
  5. Login Issues: Difficulty logging into sites or persistent sign-in prompts.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

When Microsoft Edge isn’t working correctly, start with these basic troubleshooting steps:

  1. Force Stop and Relaunch the App:

    • Navigate to Settings > Apps.
    • Locate and tap on Microsoft Edge.
    • Select Force Stop, then reopen the app.

  2. Restart Your Device:

    • Sometimes a simple restart can resolve many app issues, including those with Edge.

  3. Ensure You Have a Stable Internet Connection:

    • Check if other apps are working. Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if the issue persists.

  4. Check for Updates:

    • Open the Google Play Store, go to My Apps & Games, and see if Microsoft Edge has any available updates. Keeping your app updated is crucial for optimal performance.

Update Microsoft Edge

Applying the latest updates can fix numerous issues caused by bugs in older versions.

  • Open the Google Play Store.
  • Search for "Microsoft Edge."
  • If an update is available, tap on Update.

Once the update is complete, try launching Edge again to see if the problems are resolved.

Clear Cache and Data

Over time, the app’s cache can accumulate corrupted files or outdated data that may interfere with performance. Clearing the cache and data can often solve these problems.

  1. Open Settings on your Android device.
  2. Go to Apps or Application Manager.
  3. Scroll through the list and find Microsoft Edge.
  4. Tap on it, then select Storage.
  5. Click on Clear Cache followed by Clear Data.

After clearing the cache, relaunch Microsoft Edge to check if the issue has been fixed. Note that clearing data will log you out of the app, so make sure you have your credentials handy.

Check Permissions

Microsoft Edge requires various permissions to function correctly. If these permissions are not granted, the app may not work efficiently.

  1. Go to Settings > Apps > Microsoft Edge.
  2. Tap on Permissions.
  3. Ensure all the necessary permissions are enabled, particularly for storage, location, and network access.

Uninstall and Reinstall Microsoft Edge

If issues persist, uninstalling and reinstalling the app may resolve deeper problems related to the installation itself.

  1. Go to Settings > Apps.
  2. Find Microsoft Edge and tap on it.
  3. Select Uninstall.
  4. Once uninstalled, visit the Google Play Store and reinstall Microsoft Edge.

Reinstallation will provide a clean slate for the app, which can often rectify ongoing issues.

Network Issues

Sometimes problems with Microsoft Edge may stem from broader network issues rather than the application itself. Troubleshoot your internet connection:

  1. Check Wi-Fi or mobile data is enabled and functioning properly.
  2. Reset your router or switch to a different network.
  3. Forget the Wi-Fi network and reconnect. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi, select your network, and tap Forget. Then reconnect by entering your password.

Disable Battery Saver or Data Saver Modes

Certain features on your Android device, such as Battery Saver or Data Saver, can restrict background processes and limit app functionality. Disable these modes to see if it resolves the issues with Edge.

  • Go to Settings > Battery.
  • Toggle Battery Saver off.

For Data Saver:

  • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Usage.
  • Select Data Saver and toggle it off.

Sync Issues

If you’re having problems with syncing bookmarks or browsing data between devices, check the following:

  1. Ensure you are logged into your Microsoft account in the Edge app.
  2. Go to Settings in Edge, tap on Account, and ensure that Sync is turned on.
  3. You may also want to sign out and sign back into your Microsoft account to refresh the sync settings.

Reset App Preferences

Sometimes, conflicting app settings can cause apps to function incorrectly. Resetting app preferences can help.

  1. Open Settings > Apps.
  2. Tap on the three vertical dots in the top right corner (this may differ based on your device).
  3. Select Reset app preferences.

This action will reset all app preferences, but it won’t delete any app data or accounts.

Advanced Solutions

If the basic troubleshooting methods do not work, you may need to explore some advanced solutions.

Check for Android System Updates

Ensure your Android operating system is up to date, which can impact app performance.

  1. Go to Settings > System > Advanced > System Update.
  2. Check for updates and install if available.

Disable VPN Services

If you are using a VPN, it could interfere with Microsoft’s Edge performance.

  1. Disable the VPN temporarily to see if it resolves the issue.
  2. If it does, consider using an alternative VPN that is more compatible with the Edge browser.

Clear Edge’s Browsing History

An overloaded or corrupted browsing history might hinder your experience. Clearing it can sometimes resolve performance issues.

  1. Launch Microsoft Edge.
  2. Tap on the three-dot menu in the bottom right corner.
  3. Select Settings, then go to Privacy and Security.
  4. Tap Clear browsing data, select the data you want to delete, and confirm.

Contact Microsoft Support

If after exploring all these troubleshooting methods Microsoft Edge still refuses to work correctly, reaching out to Microsoft support is a viable option. They could provide you with specific assistance based on your device and account details.

Conclusion

Despite its occasional hiccups, Microsoft Edge remains a dependable and robust mobile browser for Android users. By systematically following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and resolve most common issues associated with the app. Whether it’s as simple as clearing cache or a little more complex like reinstalling the app, you can get back to browsing smoothly in no time. If problems persist, do not hesitate to seek assistance from Microsoft’s support channels.

Hopefully, with some patience and the right guidance, you can fully unlock the potential of Microsoft Edge on your Android device!

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