Microsoft Edge, the Chromium-based browser included with Windows, provides privacy features to block trackers and manage browsing data. These tools allow users to adjust tracking prevention levels, review blocked trackers, and clear cookies through built-in settings.
To configure tracking prevention, users access Settings via the three-dot menu, navigate to Privacy, Search, and Services, and enable Tracking Prevention. Three protection levels are available, with options to customize exceptions for specific websites. A Blocked Trackers link reveals sites blacklisted by the browser, while the Exceptions feature permits tracking on trusted domains.
The browser’s Privacy, Search, and Services page also includes a Clear Browsing Data tool. Users can automate data deletion upon closing Edge or manually remove cookies, browsing history, and site data. Options include selecting time ranges—such as the last hour, day, or four weeks—and clearing data from Internet Explorer mode if applicable.
Additional security measures include Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, which blocks malicious websites and suspicious downloads. While Edge lacks native ad-blocking, it supports Chromium-compatible extensions. A "Do Not Track" request option is available but its effectiveness remains debated. These features align with privacy protections outlined in a 2021 TechMoran report on browser security tools.
