Madison Genthry 
In recent years, Microsoft has been gradually pushing Windows users away from its well established web browsers, Internet Explorer and Edge legacy, towards its newer browser, Edge. This has typically been done by introducing new features to the browser and making them exclusive to Edge. However, Microsoft is now going to great lengths to force users into using Edge by blocking a popular utility called “EdgeDeflector”.
EdgeDeflector is a tool that allows Windows 11 users to make their default browser either Chrome or Firefox rather than the pre-installed Edge browser. To do this, it simply changed Windows’ settings so that when the user clicked on a web link it would be opened with their chosen browser instead of Microsoft’s own version. Although this may seem trivial, it highlights how far some companies are willing to increase market share – even if it means stepping away from user preferences and choice in favor of its offering.
By blocking such utilities as EdgeDeflector, Microsoft is virtually removing all other web browser options besides Edge for most Windows 11 users; forcing them into having only one possibility for browsing websites on their machines. This is particularly worrying because competition between web browsers have dominated tech news headlines recently – such as Google Chrome’s decision not to update its version due to its heavy battery usage – creating an environment where there is no real alternative besides Microsoft’s offering this issue raises questions about whether this closing of choice in Windows 11 based machines is ethical or not?
Microsoft’s Underhanded Tactics
Microsoft has recently been accused of using underhanded tactics to push users towards their web browser, Edge. Reports have surfaced that Microsoft has blocked a tool called EdgeDeflector, which allowed users to easily switch to other browsers such as Chrome or Firefox.
This move has sparked criticism of Microsoft’s hardline approach to forcing Windows 11 users into using Edge. Let’s explore the implications and the furor that this move has caused.
Microsoft blocks EdgeDeflector
Microsoft has been using seemingly underhanded tactics to try and steer users away from rival versions of its software in Windows 11. The latest technique is a move to block EdgeDeflector, a simple utility app developed by Microsoft’s employees. It allows users to retain their preferred browser without any other ‘official’ workaround.
EdgeDeflector was designed with Windows 10 in mind. It became popular as users rushed to find ways to stick with their preferred browser experience rather than having Microsoft’s Edge browser forced upon them. However, with the release of Windows 11, Microsoft started actively blocking EdgeDeflector so that it no longer works on the new operating system.
The newest version of Windows incorporates significant changes, including removing older, familiar functions such as the much loved ‘Start Menu’ feature that many relied on for quick access to files and programs. While some of these transitions may be welcomed by more advanced or tech-savvy users, those less accustomed to major platform shifts may feel out at sea when navigating the system.
This makes Microsoft’s obstruction of EdgeDeflector even more concerning as it removes an important choice many had previously come accustomed to and relied upon. Users now cannot bypass default settings and switch directly between Chrome or Firefox without having opened up Edge – creating what many view as an artificial market advantage for Microsoft – choosing instead full reliance on its software over solutions offered by rival providers.
Microsoft blocks EdgeDeflector to force Windows 11 users into Edge
Microsoft has been accused of using underhanded tactics to push Windows 11 users into using Edge. The company allegedly blocked access to the reliable EdgeDeflector program, which allowed users to easily switch their default web browser from Edge to a more popular alternative like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
Microsoft appears to be making this move to entrench Edge, making it more difficult for users to switch away from it. By removing EdgeDeflector, Microsoft hopes that new Windows 11 users who have never changed their default web browser will simply use Edge by default, without taking the time and effort to switch over manually.
This move has been widely criticised, with many voicing their displeasure at what they perceive as Microsoft using its market dominance and stranglehold on user choice to force people towards its applications and services. However, many people are unaware that they can still manually change their default web browser in Windows 11 – a fact that Microsoft has thus far neglected to publicize or advertise actively.
Microsoft’s refusal to fix EdgeDeflector
Initially, EdgeDeflector was created as an open source solution to help Windows 10 users bypass the default browser, Microsoft Edge. The application is a simple .dll file that redirects users from Microsoft Edge to their chosen browser. Since its first release in 2017, many users have adopted the free software to avoid Microsoft’s default web browser.
However, in July 2020, Microsoft announced a new Windows 11 that significantly changes its policies regarding third-party browsers. In Windows 11, Microsoft blocks the installation of any applications that can interfere with the display of its native Edge browser and prevent redirects away from it. This includes blocking the installation of EdgeDeflector.
This forced many users of older Windows (Windows 10) to use one of two options: either using Edge or facing permission denied errors when attempting to install other browsers such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox via the standard procedure within Windows 11’s File Explorer user interface.
Some see the technical blocking of third-party applications such as EdgeDeflector as an example of underhanded tactics used by Microsoft to try and push its users into using the default web browser – Microsoft’s proprietary solution – instead of allowing them to make their own choice about which web browser they use on their computer.
Customer Reactions
Microsoft is receiving much backlash from customers over its recent tactics to push Windows 11 users into using its Edge browser. Users are accusing them of deceptive practices, fearing that this could set a dangerous precedent for other tech companies.
Let’s take a look at customer reactions and arguments against this move.
Customers are angry
Since the release of Windows 11, Microsoft has continually implemented measures to encourage users to switch from their existing browser of choice and use its own Edge browser instead. Recently it was revealed that Microsoft had leveraged an update to block a third-party tool, EdgeDeflector, which allowed users to disable the option of automatically defaulting to Edge.
The news sparked an outcry from loyal customers who were outraged at being forced into using a confusing and inferior product that some claim is not ready for release. As a result, customers who use Windows 11 have been sharing their stories online, resorting to third-party tools or turning off the automatic updates to circumvent Microsoft’s attempts to hijack their preferred browsers.
Most complaints revolved around Microsoft’s lack of respect for customer choice and privacy. Many accused them of deliberately pushing them away from more secure software like Firefox or Chrome and exploiting this ultimate power over Windows OS.
This uproar is unlikely to stop soon as more customers become increasingly aware of the situation and push back against Microsoft’s actions. While some may argue that most Windows devices still use older versions, it may be difficult for Microsoft to ignore this level of customer backlash indefinitely – especially when they consider how much they need these customers as long-term partners to achieve success.
Customers feel betrayed
The recent decision by Microsoft to block the installation of a third-party tool called EdgeDeflector has left many customers feeling betrayed. In addition, Microsoft has been criticized for its aggressive tactics in pushing users to upgrade to Windows 11 and forcing Windows 11 users into using their Edge browser.
Customers feel that Microsoft made the wrong move by blocking EdgeDeflector, since the company previously promised that users would be able to use their choice of web browser. While some support giving priority to Edge, others are angry that Microsoft is taking control away from them as customers.
Many customers said they felt used and taken advantage of by the decision. Several complained about having had their preferences disregarded and argued that companies should focus on giving consumers a choice and building better products instead of preventing them from using other tools they may favor. Others argued that it was unfair for one company to have so much power over users’ choices when it came to browsing software.
Overall, customers feel betrayed by Microsoft’s decision as they had been promised freedom of choice when upgrading to Windows 11, they find themselves being forced into using Edge if they want access certain functionalities like Cortana or Internet Explorer 11.
Microsoft’s Response
Microsoft recently responded to criticism that they are using underhanded tactics to push users towards Edge by blocking EdgeDeflector. According to Microsoft, they only do this to ensure that their users have the best possible experience with their products.
This section will discuss Microsoft’s response and analyze the situation.
Microsoft’s official statement
Microsoft released an official statement addressing the controversy surrounding their use of EdgeDeflector software to stop Windows 11 users from defaulting to other browsers. In their statement, they highlighted the importance of offering customers a choice of browsers and emphasised that no one should feel forced or intimidated into one browser.
However, Microsoft also stated that their strategy has always been to make readily available tools to enable customers to choose the web browser that best fits their needs and preferences. They explained that EdgeDeflector was introduced as an interim solution for users of older versions of Windows who upgraded without knowing about Edge beforehand or those who had opted out but whose settings were forgotten in the upgrade process.
In conclusion, Microsoft reiterated its commitment to ensuring customer choice when selecting a web browser. It also focused on delivering a secure browsing experience by providing cutting-edge features like Enhanced Protection Mode, free parental control software, and phishing protection via SmartScreen Filter. Microsoft also shared plans to ensure improved user experience around web browser installation within Windows 11 in future updates.
Microsoft’s refusal to address customer concerns
Microsoft has recently come under fire for using underhanded tactics to push Windows 11 users to use their Edge web browser instead of third-party options. In response, Microsoft has refused to address customers’ concerns or provide a statement.
Microsoft’s move comes after they were discovered blocking users from accessing the EdgeDeflector tool which allowed those on Windows 11 an easy work around for forcing third-party browsers as the default on their systems. This type of behavior could potentially be seen as infringing on consumers’ rights and violating antitrust laws.
Customers were promised they would have choice when it came to a default web browser when signing up for Windows 11, Microsoft is implementing aggressive tactics to ensure this isn’t the case. Consumer reports and complaints show users are unhappy with Microsoft’s refusal to address these issues or answer questions about why they are pushing users towards Edge.
Although Microsoft has yet to explain these blocks, many speculate that their lack of response indicates further attempts at monopolizing web browsing by continuing its mission towards pushing all users towards their product — Edge — and away from trusted third-party browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
Conclusion
Microsoft’s move to block the popular third-party EdgeDeflector tool is an underhanded way of getting users to use their web browsers. Though this does not necessarily harm the user experience, it creates a level of unfairness that goes against the open web principles and can be seen as a way to unfairly push users towards Microsoft’s Edge browser.
Therefore, it is recommended that users consider alternate solutions, such as WebExtensions or alternative third-party tools, so they can customize their Windows 11 experience while still enjoying a faster and more secure browsing experience.
