Microsoft Edge Could Soon Update Without Restarting the Browser

Microsoft is working on a new update system for Edge for Business that could eliminate the need to restart the browser when installing security updates. The technology would allow users to continue working with their tabs open while Edge switches to a newer version.

Microsoft tests restart-free updates for Edge

According to Microsoft, the new technology can update Edge without closing tabs, interrupting active sessions, or requiring a browser restart.

The current prototype includes an Update button that users must click to install the latest version. However, Microsoft wants to automate the entire process so that Edge can apply security updates within minutes of their release.

IT administrators would also be able to control the update process through the Edge management service.

For now, the technology remains a working prototype and has not been integrated into Edge’s production code or Chromium. Microsoft has not announced a release date.

Security Update Alerts are already available

Alongside the experimental update system, Microsoft has introduced Security Update Alerts for administrators managing Edge on Windows devices.

The feature notifies IT teams when devices lack important browser security updates. Administrators can configure alerts based on vulnerability severity and receive notifications through the Edge management dashboard or email.

The alerts also identify updates addressing actively exploited zero-day vulnerabilities.

Administrators can review affected vulnerabilities, their severity levels, and the number of managed devices that need updates. They can then prompt users to restart Edge or configure automatic restarts when devices become idle.

Security Update Alerts are already available in the Monitoring dashboard of the Edge management service for managed Windows devices, without requiring an additional license.

Edge can already restart automatically when idle

Microsoft also highlighted an existing feature called Restart to update on idle, previously known as Instant Updates.

This feature automatically restarts Edge when a device becomes idle, installs pending updates, and restores previously open tabs afterward.

Unlike the new prototype, it still requires a browser restart, but aims to minimize disruptions by performing the process when users are away.

Microsoft continues to expand Edge’s capabilities beyond browser updates. The company is also preparing another layer of protection through Enhanced Security Mode Plus.

Other changes include an upcoming AI-powered Fix an issue feature and new warnings for Manifest V2 extensions in the Edge Add-ons Store.