Microsoft Edge includes a built-in HTTPS-only mode that helps protect your browsing by upgrading insecure requests to encrypted connections whenever possible.
This guide explains how to enable HTTPS only mode in Edge, what the setting changes, and how to troubleshoot sites that do not load correctly.
What HTTPS-only mode does in Edge
HTTPS-only mode tells Microsoft Edge to prefer secure HTTPS over unencrypted HTTP when loading websites.
If a site supports HTTPS, Edge attempts to use it automatically, which helps reduce the risk of eavesdropping, traffic tampering, and session hijacking on public or shared networks.
This feature is especially useful because many websites still accept both protocols.
Without a browser-level preference, a user may land on an HTTP version of a page if a link, bookmark, or redirect points there.
Edge’s HTTPS-only mode reduces that risk by trying the secure version first.
How to enable HTTPS only mode in Edge
Turning on the feature takes only a few clicks in Microsoft Edge on Windows and macOS.
The exact label may vary slightly by version, but the setting is generally found in the privacy and security area.
Steps to turn it on
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Select the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner.
- Choose Settings.
- Click Privacy, search, and services.
- Scroll to the Security section.
- Turn on Always use secure connections or the HTTPS-only option shown in your version.
Once enabled, Edge will try to upgrade supported sites from HTTP to HTTPS automatically.
In many builds, you can also choose whether to receive warnings before the browser redirects you or only when a secure version is unavailable.
What the warning options mean
- Warn before switching to HTTPS: Edge prompts you before trying the secure version of a site.
- Warn only when no HTTPS is available: Edge upgrades silently when possible and alerts you only if the secure version fails.
If your goal is convenience with a security boost, the second option is usually the better balance.
If you want more visibility into every upgrade attempt, choose the first.
Why this setting matters for everyday browsing
HTTPS-only mode is one of the simplest security improvements you can make at the browser level.
It does not replace antivirus software, a VPN, or safe browsing habits, but it closes a common gap: accidental use of unencrypted web connections.
Encrypted HTTPS connections protect data in transit using TLS, which makes it harder for attackers on the same network to intercept passwords, search queries, form submissions, or cookies.
This matters most on hotel Wi‑Fi, airport networks, coffee shop hotspots, and corporate environments with shared infrastructure.
Benefits of using HTTPS-only mode
- Helps prevent downgrade attacks from HTTP to HTTPS.
- Reduces exposure on public Wi‑Fi.
- Improves privacy for logins and browsing sessions.
- Encourages a secure default when sites support it.
When HTTPS-only mode can cause issues
Not every site works smoothly with HTTPS-only mode.
Some older websites, internal portals, or device admin pages may still rely on HTTP or have incomplete HTTPS support.
In those cases, Edge may show a warning or fail to load the page until you allow the insecure connection.
Common examples include legacy intranet systems, local router interfaces, older printer dashboards, and non-public devices on a home network.
Many modern sites support HTTPS correctly, but older infrastructure can still be common in enterprise and industrial environments.
How to handle a site that won’t load
- Check whether the site has an https:// version available.
- Look for a browser warning offering a one-time HTTP bypass.
- Verify whether the site uses a self-signed or expired certificate.
- Contact the website or IT administrator if it is a managed service.
If you frequently need access to a trusted internal site that has not been upgraded, you may need to allow HTTP for that session.
Use that exception sparingly and only for systems you recognize.
How to confirm HTTPS-only mode is working
After enabling the setting, test it with a website that supports both HTTP and HTTPS.
If you type the HTTP version manually, Edge should attempt to move you to the secure version or alert you that the site should be opened more securely.
You can also inspect the address bar:
- A padlock or security indicator suggests an encrypted connection.
- The browser should default to https:// on supported sites.
- Security warnings may appear when a secure version is unavailable.
If you still see HTTP loads on sites that clearly support HTTPS, make sure the feature is turned on in the current profile you are using.
Microsoft Edge settings can be profile-specific, so work and personal profiles may not share the same configuration.
Related Microsoft Edge security settings to check
HTTPS-only mode works best alongside other Edge security features.
These settings help strengthen the browser’s overall privacy and threat protection posture.
Useful companion settings
- Tracking prevention: Limits cross-site trackers and profiling.
- Microsoft Defender SmartScreen: Helps block phishing and malicious downloads.
- Enhanced security mode: Reduces exposure to common web-based attacks.
- Automatic updates: Keeps security patches current in the browser.
For business users, administrators can also manage browser policy settings through Microsoft Intune, Group Policy, or enterprise management tools.
In managed environments, HTTPS behavior may be enforced centrally rather than by individual users.
What to do if you cannot find the setting
If the HTTPS-only option is missing, your Edge version may be outdated or the user interface may have shifted.
Update Microsoft Edge first, then check the same Privacy, search, and services area again.
In some builds, the setting appears under a label such as “Always use secure connections.”
On fully managed devices, administrators may hide or control the feature.
If you are using a company laptop or school device, the browser policy may determine whether you can change it.
Best practices for using HTTPS-only mode
To get the most from the feature, keep a few practical habits in mind.
- Bookmark the https:// version of websites you use often.
- Avoid bypassing warnings unless you trust the destination.
- Keep Edge updated so security features remain current.
- Use HTTPS-only mode together with multi-factor authentication for sensitive accounts.
These habits reduce the chance of unintentionally using an insecure connection, especially when switching between work, personal, and public networks.
Frequently asked questions about HTTPS-only mode in Edge
Is HTTPS-only mode the same as HTTPS Everywhere?
No.
HTTPS-only mode is built into Microsoft Edge, while HTTPS Everywhere was a separate browser extension created by the Electronic Frontier Foundation.
The browser feature now handles the core upgrade behavior without requiring an add-on.
Does HTTPS-only mode protect everything I do online?
No.
It protects connections when a secure version of a site is available, but it does not stop phishing, malware, or device-level threats.
It is one layer of defense, not a complete security solution.
Will HTTPS-only mode slow down browsing?
Usually not in a noticeable way.
In most cases, HTTPS connections load quickly, and any extra upgrade check happens in the background during page requests.
Can I turn it off later?
Yes.
You can return to the same security settings page in Edge and disable the feature if a site you rely on does not work correctly.