How to Make Microsoft Edge Start in Full Screen Mode Every Time

Starting Microsoft Edge in full screen mode allows you to maximize your browsing experience by using the entire display without distractions from toolbars, taskbars, or window borders. This is especially useful for presentations, kiosks, or immersive browsing sessions. While Edge does not have a built-in setting to always launch in full screen, there are practical workarounds to achieve this behavior.

What You’ll Need

• A Windows PC with Microsoft Edge installed (version 80 or later recommended)
• Basic familiarity with creating shortcuts and editing their properties
• Optional: Access to command prompt or PowerShell for advanced options

Step-by-Step

1. Create a New Microsoft Edge Shortcut: Right-click on your desktop or in a folder, select New > Shortcut.
2. Enter the Edge Executable Path: In the location box, enter the full path to the Edge executable followed by a command-line argument for kiosk or full screen mode. For example:
   
   "C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" --start-fullscreen
   
   Note: Adjust the path if your Edge is installed elsewhere.
3. Name Your Shortcut: Give it a descriptive name like “Edge Full Screen” and click Finish.
4. Modify Shortcut Properties (Optional for Maximized Window): Right-click the shortcut, select Properties, and in the Shortcut tab, set Run to Maximized. This ensures the window opens large if full screen is not triggered.
5. Test the Shortcut: Double-click the shortcut. Edge should launch directly in full screen mode without showing tabs or toolbars.
6. Set Edge to Open Your Preferred Homepage or URL: Add a URL after the command-line argument if you want Edge to open a specific page. For example:
   
   "C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" --start-fullscreen https://www.example.com
7. Pin the Shortcut to Taskbar or Start Menu (Optional): Right-click the shortcut and select Pin to Taskbar or Pin to Start for easy access.
8. Set Edge to Open Full Screen on Startup: Replace your usual Edge shortcut with this new one, or set this shortcut to run at startup by placing it in the Windows Startup folder:
   
   Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and press Enter. Then copy your new shortcut into this folder.
9. Use Kiosk Mode for Dedicated Full Screen Sessions (Optional): If you want Edge to start in an even more locked down full screen mode, use the --kiosk argument. For example:
   
   "C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\msedge.exe" --kiosk https://www.example.com --edge-kiosk-type=fullscreen
   
   This mode disables most UI elements and is ideal for public displays or kiosks.
10. Close and Relaunch Using Your New Shortcut: Always use this shortcut to open Edge in full screen mode.

Common Mistakes

• Not Using the Correct Executable Path: Edge’s location can vary by Windows version or installation type; verify the path before creating the shortcut.
• Forgetting Quotes Around Paths: If your path contains spaces, enclose it in double quotes to prevent errors.
• Confusing Full Screen with Maximized: Maximized windows still show toolbars and taskbars; full screen hides them entirely.
• Using the Default Edge Shortcut Instead of the Modified One: Changes only apply when launching Edge via the customized shortcut.
• Not Adding URLs Properly: URLs must come after command-line arguments with a space separating them.
• Trying to Change Full Screen Behavior from Edge Settings: Edge does not currently offer a setting to always start in full screen mode.

Tips

• Use Keyboard Shortcut F11: Pressing F11 toggles full screen mode while Edge is running if you want to switch modes on the fly.
• Combine with Multiple Profiles: Create separate shortcuts with full screen for different Edge profiles if needed.
• Automate Launch at Startup: Use Task Scheduler to run your full screen Edge shortcut on login with delay if preferred.
• Use Kiosk Mode for Public or Focused Use: The kiosk mode disables most browser UI, great for public terminals or digital signage.
• Keep Edge Updated: Newer versions may improve command-line options or add features related to window behavior.
• Combine with Virtual Desktops: Run full screen Edge in a separate virtual desktop for better workspace organization.

Troubleshooting

If Edge does not start in full screen as expected, try the following:

• Verify the Shortcut Path: Right-click the shortcut, select Properties, and double-check the target path and parameters.
• Confirm Edge Version: Open Edge, go to Settings > About Microsoft Edge to ensure you have a version that supports the --start-fullscreen or --kiosk arguments.
• Try Running Shortcut as Administrator: Sometimes permissions affect startup behavior; right-click the shortcut and choose Run as administrator.
• Check for Conflicting Software: Third-party window managers or security software might prevent full screen startup.
• Test Command-Line Arguments in Command Prompt: Open Command Prompt, paste the exact command line you use, and see if Edge launches full screen to isolate shortcut issues.
• Remove Other Command-Line Arguments: Too many or conflicting switches can prevent full screen mode; simplify your command line.
• Restart Your PC: Sometimes a simple reboot resolves temporary glitches affecting startup.
• Reset Edge Settings: If Edge behaves unexpectedly, resetting it to default can help, but this removes customizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Microsoft Edge always start full screen without using a shortcut?

No, Edge does not provide a native setting to always start in full screen mode. Using a customized shortcut with command-line arguments is the most practical method.

What is the difference between full screen and kiosk mode in Edge?

Full screen (triggered by --start-fullscreen) hides toolbars and taskbars but keeps browser controls accessible via keyboard. Kiosk mode (--kiosk) locks the browser into a more restricted state, removing most UI and limiting user interaction, ideal for public displays.

Will using full screen mode affect my browsing experience?

Full screen mode maximizes screen space and reduces distractions but hides tabs and address bar. You can exit full screen anytime by pressing F11 or using keyboard shortcuts.

Can I use full screen mode on Mac or Linux versions of Edge?

Command-line options vary by platform. The --start-fullscreen flag is primarily supported on Windows. Mac and Linux versions can toggle full screen manually but do not support automatic full screen on launch via shortcut arguments.

How do I exit full screen mode once Edge has started?

Press the F11 key on your keyboard or move your mouse to the top of the screen to reveal the toolbar and click the exit full screen button.

Is it possible to start Edge in full screen with a specific website loaded?

Yes, add the website URL after the --start-fullscreen argument in the shortcut target. For example: msedge.exe --start-fullscreen https://www.example.com.

By following these steps and tips, you can ensure Microsoft Edge launches in full screen mode to suit your productivity or presentation needs. Whether for personal use, kiosk setups, or immersive browsing, controlling Edge’s startup behavior enhances your overall experience.

Remember that while Microsoft Edge lacks a built-in toggle for always starting full screen, using command-line arguments and customized shortcuts provides a reliable and user-friendly workaround. Experiment with kiosk mode if you need an even more focused, locked-down environment.

With these instructions, you can confidently set up Microsoft Edge to open exactly how you want every time.

Related

• How to Fix Weak Rhubarb Leaf Insecticide Spray Effectively
• How to Identify Tudor Era Weapons: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Use Leftover Lemon Pie Filling Creatively and Deliciously