Microsoft Edge really wants you to leave Google Chrome, and it just made it easier to do so

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Microsoft just rolled out an update to its Edge browser that improves security and makes it a bit easier to migrate from Chrome.

Microsoft Edge on Start menu
(Image credit: Future)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft Edge version 104 just rolled out to general users.
  • The updated browser now lets you migrate Chrome data to Edge by logging in to a Google account.
  • Edge 104 also adds a new default security setting when visiting less viewed sites.

Microsoft Edge has an update available that brings the browser to version 104. The changes are relatively minor but should make it easier to move over from Google Chrome. Microsoft Edge's First Run Experience now allows users to migrate Chrome data over by logging in to a Google account. With the new feature, people can bring over their Chrome data without having Google Chrome installed on their system.

Edge 104 also has a new default security option. Following the update, the browser will apply an added layer of security when viewing less visited sites. "With enhanced security mode, Microsoft Edge helps reduce the risk of an attack by automatically applying more conservative security settings on unfamiliar sites and adapts over time as you continue to browse," explains a Microsoft support doc. Edge will now default to Basic for the "Enhance your security on the web" setting.

Here are the new features in Edge version 104, as listed in its change log:

  • Enhance your security on the web. Improvements to Enhance your security on the web in edge://settings/privacy now include Basic as the new default option. With this option, Microsoft Edge will apply added security protection to the less visited sites. This feature preserves the user experience for the most popular sites on the web. For more information, see Browse more safely with Microsoft Edge.
  • Import Chrome data without Chrome during First Run Experience. This feature lets a user bring in their Chrome data by logging in to their Google account during Microsoft Edge's First Run Experience. This feature can be turned off by disabling First Run Experience with the HideFirstRunExperience policy, or by setting AutoImportAtFirstRun to 'DisabledAutoImport'.

A separate support document breaks down all of the new policies in Edge 104.

Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is the default browser on Windows 11 and Windows 10. Its latest update adds an extra layer of security when browsing less visited sites and makes it easier to migrate over from Chrome.

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Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.