Set Arc Browser as Default on Windows 11

This guide walks you through making Arc your default browser on Windows 11, so links from email, documents, and other apps open in Arc automatically. You’ll need Arc installed and a Windows 11 PC with administrator access (usually your normal account).

What You’ll Need

• Arc browser installed (download from the official Arc website if you haven’t already).
• Windows 11 with the latest updates (Settings layout may vary slightly).
• Administrator rights on your user account (most home accounts have this).

Step-by-Step

1. Open Arc. Launch Arc from your Start menu or taskbar. If it’s your first time, complete the initial setup (sign in or create an account).
2. Go to Arc’s settings. Click the Arc logo in the top-left corner, then select Settings from the dropdown. Alternatively, press Ctrl + , (comma) to open settings directly.
3. Find the default browser option. In the Settings window, look for a section called General or Default Browser. You’ll see a button that says “Make Default” or “Set as Default.” Click it.
4. Open Windows Settings. Windows will open the “Default apps” page in the Settings app. If it doesn’t, click the button again or manually open Settings (Win + I) and go to Apps > Default apps.
5. Search for Arc. In the Default apps page, use the search bar at the top and type “Arc.” Click on the Arc result that appears.
6. Set individual file types and protocols. You’ll see a list of file types (like .htm, .html) and protocols (like HTTP, HTTPS). For each one, click the current default (e.g., “Microsoft Edge”) and choose Arc from the pop-up list. Do this for at least HTTP and HTTPS—those are what matter for normal web links.
7. Confirm the change. After selecting Arc for each item, close Settings. Test by opening a link from an email or a document—it should open in Arc.

Common Mistakes

• Only changing the browser in Arc’s settings. Arc’s “Make Default” button alone doesn’t change Windows’ default; you must also confirm in Windows Settings.
• Forgetting to change both HTTP and HTTPS. If you only change one, some links (especially those starting with https://) may still open in the old browser.
• Not scrolling through the full list. Windows shows many file types and protocols; you might miss some if you don’t scroll down. At minimum, change HTTP and HTTPS, but also consider .htm, .html, and .pdf if you want those to open in Arc.
• Clicking “Always use this app” in a pop-up instead of going to Settings. That only sets the default for that one file type, not all.

Tips

• Use the “Set default” button in Windows Settings. After searching for Arc, you’ll see a button that says “Set default” at the top. Clicking it will set Arc as the default for all file types and protocols it supports—much faster than doing each one manually.
• Check for updates. Make sure Arc is up to date. Older versions might not register properly with Windows.
• Restart your PC. After changing defaults, a restart ensures all apps recognize the new default browser.
• Pin Arc to your taskbar. Even with Arc as default, you’ll still want quick access. Right-click the Arc icon and choose “Pin to taskbar.”

Troubleshooting

Arc doesn’t appear in the Default apps list. This usually means Arc isn’t installed correctly or Windows hasn’t registered it. Reinstall Arc from the official site, then try again. Also, check that you’re using the Windows version of Arc (not the Mac version).

Changes don’t stick after restart. Sometimes Windows resets defaults after an update. Re-do the steps, and if it keeps happening, check if you have a group policy or third-party security software that locks default apps.

Links still open in Edge or another browser. Make sure you changed both HTTP and HTTPS protocols. Also, some apps (like Microsoft Office) have their own default browser setting—check that app’s settings.

Arc’s “Make Default” button does nothing. This can happen if Windows Settings is already open or if you don’t have permission. Close Settings, click the button again, and when the Windows page opens, follow through.

You see a warning about “Default apps” being managed by your organization. This is rare on personal PCs. It means a policy is blocking changes. You may need to contact your IT admin or check your own group policy settings (gpedit.msc) for “Set a default associations configuration file.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to change every file type?
A: No, only HTTP and HTTPS are essential for web links. Changing .htm and .html is optional but nice for local files.

Q: Can I set Arc as default from Arc’s settings only?
A: No, you must also confirm in Windows Settings. The button in Arc just opens the Windows page.

Q: Will this affect my bookmarks or extensions?
A: No, changing the default browser doesn’t touch your data. Your Arc profile remains intact.

Q: How do I switch back to Edge or another browser?
A: Go to Settings > Apps > Default apps, search for the other browser, and set it as default the same way.

Q: Why does Windows keep asking me which browser to use?
A: That happens if you haven’t set a default for a specific file type. Go through the list and assign Arc to all relevant types.

Q: Is Arc safe to use as default?
A: Yes, Arc is a legitimate Chromium-based browser. As with any browser, keep it updated and be cautious with downloads.

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