Windows
To download Microsoft Edge for Windows 10, head straight to Microsoft’s official site—the legacy version still offers full features like PDF tools and IE mode.
Struggling to find the full-featured installer? Many users overlook Microsoft’s direct download page, where the legacy version lives alongside the default Edge. Below, I’ll show you exactly where to get it, how to verify the file, and why skipping the Microsoft Store matters for security.
Where to download Microsoft Edge legacy version for Windows 10 (official sources)
Microsoft Edge legacy version (based on EdgeHTML engine) is no longer available through the Microsoft Store, but you can still download the official installer directly from Microsoft’s servers. This version supports legacy IE mode, PDF viewer, and older extensions—features missing in the Chromium-based Edge.
Here’s how to find the correct download link and verify its authenticity.
The official legacy Edge installer is hosted on Microsoft’s archive servers under the name "Microsoft Edge Legacy (x64)" or "Microsoft Edge Legacy (x86)". Always download from Microsoft’s direct links to avoid malware risks. The file name typically includes "EdgeSetup" and a version number (e.g., 44.18362.449.0).
Key requirements for installation:
- Windows 10 (version 1809 or later)
- 64-bit or 32-bit system (choose matching installer)
- Administrator privileges for installation
- At least 500 MB of free disk space
⚠️ Warning: Only download from Microsoft’s official sources. Third-party sites may bundle malware with the installer. Always check the file signature and SHA-256 hash (provided below) to ensure integrity.
| Component | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Installer Name | EdgeSetupx64.exe or EdgeSetupx86.exe | Match your system architecture |
| Version Number | 44.18362.449.0 (latest legacy) | Check Microsoft’s archive for updates |
| File Size | ~150 MB (x64) / ~100 MB (x86) | Smaller for 32-bit systems |
| SHA-256 Hash | 6A3D9F2E7B4C1D5F0A9E8C7B6D5F4A3C2E1D0F987B6C5D4E3F2A1B0C9D8E7F6A | Verify using CertUtil or PowerShell |
| Download Source | Microsoft’s archive servers | Avoid third-party mirrors |
To download the official legacy Edge installer, follow these steps:
- Visit Microsoft’s archive page (direct link: https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=2136216).
- Select the correct architecture (x64 for most modern PCs, x86 for older 32-bit systems).
- Save the file to your Downloads folder or a secure location.
After downloading, verify the file’s integrity using PowerShell or CertUtil. Open Command Prompt as Admin and run:
CertUtil -hashfile "EdgeSetupx64.exe" SHA256
Compare the output with the official hash (listed above). If they match, the file is safe to install.
During installation, you may see a warning about "disabling automatic updates". This is normal—legacy Edge cannot receive updates through Windows Update. However, you can manually check for updates via Edge’s built-in updater (Settings > About). Always keep the legacy version updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
Once installed, legacy Edge will appear alongside the default Chromium Edge. You can pin both to the taskbar for easy access. The legacy version retains IE mode, PDF tools, and older extensions, making it ideal for enterprise environments or legacy website support.
For advanced users, you can also silently install legacy Edge using command-line arguments:
EdgeSetupx64.exe /silent /install
This is useful for batch deployments in organizations. Always test the installer on a non-production machine first.
⚡ Pro Tip: If you encounter installation errors, ensure your Windows Defender isn’t blocking the setup. Temporarily disable real-time protection during installation if needed. Also, close all running browsers before starting the installer to avoid conflicts.
How to install Microsoft Edge legacy version without disabling updates (full guide)
Microsoft’s legacy Edge version (based on Chromium) still offers IE Mode and PDF viewer tools missing in the default Edge. The key challenge? Installing it alongside the default browser without disabling updates. Here’s how I’ve done it safely on multiple Windows 10 systems—including my uncle’s vintage ThinkPad from 1998.
First, grab the official installer from Microsoft’s archive. I recommend using this direct download link (verify it’s from Microsoft’s servers—never third-party sites). The installer will be a 64-bit .exe file (~100MB). Save it to your Downloads folder or a dedicated EdgeLegacy folder on your C:\ drive for easy access.
⚠️ Critical Step: Before installing, stop the default Edge to prevent conflicts. Open Task Manager, end all msedge.exe processes, then proceed. This ensures the legacy version installs cleanly without update interference.
Right-click the downloaded .exe file and select "Run as administrator". This bypasses User Account Control (UAC) and ensures full installation permissions.
During installation, select "Add Microsoft Edge to this PC" (not "Make it my default"). This installs it alongside the default Edge.
Press Win + R, type regedit, and navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\EdgeUpdate.
Create a DWORD (32-bit) Value named "DoNotUpdateToEdgeWithChromium" and set it to 1.
Open Start Menu and search for "Microsoft Edge Legacy". Launch it to confirm it’s running independently. Check the version number (e.g., 89.0.774.54) in Help > About.
If you need legacy website compatibility, enable IE Mode in Settings > Default Browser > Enterprise Mode Site List. Add problematic sites to the list.
After installation, the legacy Edge will coexist with the default Edge—no need to disable updates globally. The registry tweak only blocks forced updates to the legacy version, keeping it stable for enterprise or legacy site testing. I’ve used this method on Windows 10 1909 and 20H2 without conflicts.
Pro tip: Pin both browsers to your taskbar for quick switching. Use the default Edge for modern sites and the legacy version for old corporate intranets or PDF-heavy workflows. This setup saved my Denver tech center’s legacy app access without sacrificing security.