Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to fix Microsoft Edge running slow or consuming high memory on Windows 11. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

How to fix Microsoft Edge running slow or consuming high memory on Windows 11

Microsoft Edge is designed to be fast and efficient, but over time it can begin to lag, freeze, or consume excessive memory. This is often caused by having too many tabs open, conflicting extensions, or a build-up of corrupted cache and cookies. This guide walks you through the steps to restore Edge to optimal performance on Windows 11.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Close any unused tabs to free up system memory.
2. Restart Microsoft Edge completely.
3. Clear your browser cache and cookies.
4. Disable or remove unnecessary extensions.
5. Check for and install pending Edge updates.

Detailed Instructions

1. Clear Browsing Data

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the Settings and more (three dots) icon in the top-right corner.
3. Select Settings from the menu.
4. In the left-hand sidebar, click Privacy, search, and services.
5. Scroll down to the Delete browsing data section and click Choose what to clear.
6. Set the Time range to All time.
7. Ensure the following boxes are checked:
   • Browsing history
   • Download history
   • Cookies and other site data
   • Cached images and files
8. Click Clear now.

2. Manage Extensions

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the Settings and more (three dots) icon.
3. Select Extensions and then click Manage Extensions.
4. Review the list of installed extensions.
5. Turn off the toggle for any extensions you do not use regularly, or click Remove to uninstall them completely.

3. Enable Sleeping Tabs

Sleeping tabs reduce memory usage by putting inactive tabs to sleep after a period of time.

1. Open Microsoft Edge Settings.
2. Click System and performance in the left sidebar.
3. Ensure Save resources with sleeping tabs is turned On.
4. Adjust the Put inactive tabs to sleep after the specified amount of time dropdown to a shorter period (e.g., 5 minutes) for better memory management.

4. Update Microsoft Edge

1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the Settings and more (three dots) icon.
3. Go to Help and feedback > About Microsoft Edge.
4. Edge will automatically check for updates and install them if available.
5. Click Restart to apply the update.

Advanced Troubleshooting

Reset Edge to Default Settings

If performance issues persist, resetting the browser can remove corrupted settings without deleting your bookmarks or saved passwords.

1. Open Microsoft Edge Settings.
2. Click Reset settings in the left sidebar.
3. Select Restore settings to their default values.
4. Click Reset to confirm.

If you have followed these steps and Microsoft Edge is still running slowly or consuming high memory, please Open a Ticket for further assistance from our Brisbane support team.

Still Having Issues?