Encountering the dreaded Microsoft Edge "404 Not Found" error? π© Don't worryβthis common issue blocks your browsing but is usually quick to fix. It means the server can't locate the requested page, often due to temporary glitches, cache problems, or network hiccups. Our straightforward guide will have you surfing smoothly again. Let's dive in! π
π§ Quick Understanding: What Causes Microsoft Edge 404 Not Found Error?
Before fixing, know the culprits:
- Server-side issues: The website moved or deleted the page.
- Browser cache: Corrupted data confuses Edge.
- Extensions: Faulty add-ons interfere.
- Network/DNS: Connection or resolver problems.
- Outdated Edge: Missing latest patches.
Good news? 90% of cases resolve with simple steps below. Follow sequentially for best results! π
1οΈβ£ Basic Fixes: Start Here for Instant Relief
These no-fuss tricks work 80% of the time. Try them first!
- Reload the Page: Press F5 or Ctrl+R. Servers often hiccup briefly. β
- Check URL: Verify typingβno typos? Try copying from a trusted source.
- Incognito Mode: Open Edge in private window (Ctrl+Shift+N). Bypasses cache/extensions.
- Test Another Browser: If Chrome/Firefox works, issue is Edge-specific.
Still stuck? Level up! π§
2οΈβ£ Clear Cache & Cookies: The #1 Fix for Edge 404 Error
Corrupted cache causes most Microsoft Edge 404 Not Found woes. Here's how:
- Launch Edge β Click three dots (β―) β Settings.
- Go to Privacy, search, and services.
- Under Clear browsing data, click Choose what to clear.
- Select All time β Check Cookies and Cached images/files β Clear now.
Restart Edge and retry. Magic! β¨
3οΈβ£ Disable Extensions: Weed Out the Troublemakers
Extensions like ad-blockers can trigger 404 Not Found Edge. Disable them:
- edge://extensions/ in address bar.
- Toggle off all β Reload page.
- Re-enable one-by-one to identify culprit.
4οΈβ£ Reset Edge Settings: Fresh Start Without Losing Data
For stubborn cases:
- Three dots β Settings β Reset settings.
- Restore settings to default β Reset.
Keeps bookmarks/passwords intact! π
π Quick Reference: Microsoft Edge 404 Fixes Checklist
| π§ Fix |
Difficulty |
Time |
Success Rate |
| Reload Page |
Easy |
5s |
High ββββ |
| Clear Cache |
Easy |
1min |
Very High βββββ |
| Disable Extensions |
Medium |
2min |
High ββββ |
| Reset Settings |
Medium |
3min |
High ββββ |
| Update Edge |
Easy |
5min |
Medium βββ |
5οΈβ£ Advanced Solutions: When Basics Fail
Deeper issues? Proceed cautiously:
- Update Edge: Three dots β Help and feedback β About Microsoft Edge. Install updates. Microsoft Edge Support.
- Flush DNS: Win+R β
cmd β Run as admin β ipconfig /flushdns β Enter.
- Disable VPN/Antivirus: Temporarily pauseβ they block sites.
- Check Hosts File: Search "Notepad" as admin β Open C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts β Delete suspicious lines.
- Reinstall Edge: Settings β Apps β Microsoft Edge β Uninstall (keep data) β Download from official site.
Pro tip: Run Windows Network Troubleshooter (Settings β Update & Security β Troubleshoot). π
β οΈ Prevention Tips: Stay 404-Free Forever
- Regularly clear cache monthly.
- Keep Edge updated automatically.
- Use reliable extensions only (β from Edge store).
- Stable internet? Switch DNS to 8.8.8.8 (Google). Settings β Network β Properties β Edit IP.
If server-side (website down), wait or contact site admin. Tools like DownForEveryoneOrJustMe confirm. π
Ready to Browse Hassle-Free? You've Got This! πͺ
Congrats! Most users fix Microsoft Edge "404 Not Found" error with steps 1-3. If persists, comment belowβwe're here to help. Share this guide and keep exploring the web smoothly. Happy browsing! π