Microsoft Edge Extensions: How to Add, Remove & Disable

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Microsoft Edge has evolved into one of the fastest and most feature-rich browsers available today.

Built on Chromium, it supports thousands of browser extensions that can boost productivity, improve security, block ads, manage passwords, and even transform the way you browse the internet.

If you’re new to extensions or want to manage them like a pro, this complete guide explains how to add, remove, disable, and manage Microsoft Edge extensions step-by-step.

What Are Microsoft Edge Extensions?

Extensions are small add-ons that expand your browser’s capabilities. Think of them as mini apps that run inside Edge.

They can help you:

  • Block ads and trackers

  • Manage passwords securely

  • Take screenshots

  • Save articles for later

  • Improve productivity and workflow

  • Add privacy and security tools

Edge supports extensions from:

  • Microsoft Edge Add-ons Store

  • Chrome Web Store (Chromium compatibility)

Why Use Extensions in Microsoft Edge?

Using extensions can:

  • Save time and automate tasks

  • Improve privacy and online safety

  • Customize the browsing experience

  • Increase productivity for work or study

  • Add features not built into the browser

But too many extensions can slow down your browser — so knowing how to manage them is essential.

How To Add Extensions in Microsoft Edge

There are two main ways to install extensions.

Method 1 — Install Extensions From Microsoft Edge Add-ons Store

This is the safest and recommended method.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Open Microsoft Edge

  2. Click the 3-dot menu (top right)

  3. Click Extensions

  4. Click Get extensions for Microsoft Edge

Or visit:
https://microsoftedge.microsoft.com/addons

  1. Search for the extension you want

  2. Click Get

  3. Click Add extension

The extension will now appear in the toolbar.

Method 2 — Install Extensions From Chrome Web Store

Since Edge is Chromium-based, it can run Chrome extensions.

Enable Chrome Extensions Support

  1. Open Edge

  2. Go to:
    edge://extensions

  3. Turn ON Allow extensions from other stores

  4. Click Allow

Install From Chrome Store

  1. Visit: https://chrome.google.com/webstore

  2. Search for an extension

  3. Click Add to Chrome

  4. Click Add extension

The extension will install in Edge.

How To Pin Extensions to the Toolbar

Pinning helps quick access.

Steps

  1. Click the Extensions (puzzle icon) in toolbar

  2. Find the extension

  3. Click the pin icon

The extension icon will now appear permanently in the toolbar.

How To Disable Extensions in Microsoft Edge

Disabling keeps the extension installed but stops it from running.

This is useful when:

  • Troubleshooting browser issues

  • Reducing memory usage

  • Testing performance problems

Steps to Disable

  1. Open Edge

  2. Type in address bar:
    edge://extensions

  3. Find the extension

  4. Turn OFF the toggle switch

The extension is now disabled.

How To Remove Extensions in Microsoft Edge

If you no longer need an extension, you can permanently uninstall it.

Method 1 — From Extensions Page

  1. Open Edge

  2. Go to: edge://extensions

  3. Find the extension

  4. Click Remove

  5. Confirm by clicking Remove

Method 2 — Remove From Toolbar

  1. Right-click the extension icon

  2. Click Remove from Microsoft Edge

  3. Confirm removal

How To Enable an Extension Again

If you disabled an extension:

  1. Go to edge://extensions

  2. Turn the toggle ON

How To Update Microsoft Edge Extensions

Extensions usually update automatically.

To manually update:

  1. Open edge://extensions

  2. Turn ON Developer Mode

  3. Click Update

How To Manage Extension Permissions

Extensions request permissions to work.

Check Permissions

  1. Go to edge://extensions

  2. Click Details under extension

  3. Review permissions:

    • Access to websites

    • Read browsing history

    • Modify data

You can restrict site access:

  • On click

  • On specific sites

  • On all sites

How To Fix Extensions Not Working

Try these solutions:

Fix 1 — Restart Edge

Close and reopen the browser.

Fix 2 — Update Edge

Settings → About → Check for updates.

Fix 3 — Disable Conflicting Extensions

Disable others and test one by one.

Fix 4 — Reinstall Extension

Remove → Install again.

Fix 5 — Reset Edge

Settings → Reset settings → Restore defaults.

Popular Microsoft Edge Extensions (Best by Category)

Here are some widely used and trusted extensions.

Productivity Extensions

  • Grammarly — Grammar and writing assistant

  • Todoist — Task management

  • Microsoft Editor — Writing suggestions

  • Notion Web Clipper — Save pages to Notion

Security & Privacy Extensions

  • uBlock Origin — Powerful ad blocker

  • Bitwarden — Password manager

  • DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials — Tracker blocking

  • HTTPS Everywhere — Secure browsing

Shopping & Deals Extensions

  • Honey — Coupon finder

  • Rakuten — Cashback rewards

  • Capital One Shopping — Price comparison

Developer Extensions

  • React Developer Tools

  • Web Developer

  • Wappalyzer

  • JSON Viewer

Entertainment Extensions

  • Netflix Party (Teleparty) — Watch together online

  • Enhancer for YouTube — Extra video controls

  • Dark Reader — Dark mode for websites

Tips for Managing Extensions Efficiently

✔ Keep only necessary extensions
✔ Disable rarely used extensions
✔ Install from trusted sources only
✔ Check permissions regularly
✔ Update extensions monthly

FAQs

Are Edge extensions safe?

Yes, if installed from trusted stores. Always check reviews and permissions.

Do extensions slow down Edge?

Too many extensions can affect speed and memory usage.

Can Edge run Chrome extensions?

Yes, after enabling “Allow extensions from other stores.”

Why is my extension not showing?

Click the Extensions icon and pin it.

Conclusion

Microsoft Edge extensions can dramatically improve your browsing experience when used correctly. Learning how to add, remove, disable, and manage extensions ensures your browser stays fast, secure, and customized to your needs.

Whether you want better productivity, stronger privacy, or smarter shopping, Edge extensions can transform your daily browsing workflow.