Microsoft Edge

Edge is Microsoft's browser that users can log into and treat similar to Google Chrome. Users can create Microsoft profiles, safe bookmarks, browsing history, and favorites. This particular browser is proprietary to Microsoft and comes with Windows 10 and newer. There are many benefits to using Edge when you have a Windows PC or Surface tablet, but there are also some drawbacks. Just like any device that can access the internet, there are risks involved and as a loving, caring parent, you can use the built in parental controls to help protect and empower your family.

Parental Controls in Edge

Microsoft includes parental controls in nearly all aspects of their software. To turn these options on, it can be as simple as navigating the menu and clicking a toggle switch. 

Kids Mode

Edge has an option to create what they call Kids Mode. This has built in filters and blocks so that your child can navigate through Edge and discover safe websites. Having this on can give parents piece of mind that the filtering is being done before the material ever reaches your browser.

How to turn on Kids Mode

• Open the profile switcher in the browser frame (the picture of the user currently signed in) and select Browse in Kids Mode

• If this is the first time you've used Kids Mode, it will briefly explain what the feature is.

  • You do not have to be signed in to use Kids Mode but if you are signed in, it will automatically sync Kids Mode across all devices.

  • Select the age range you want for browsing filters and Kids Mode will open full screen.

When you open your browser, it will now always launch in Kids Mode until you decide to sign out. You will need your Microsoft password in order to change from Kids Mode to regular browsing. This prevents your child from accidentally browsing under a regular profile.

If a child wants to visit a website that Kids Mode blocks, it will pop up a Block Page. This page then asks if the parent wants to allow that particular website address and asks for credentials to do so. Once you decide if you want it allowed, Kids Mode will only allow that exact website address and no other branches off of that page. If you want to permanently allow that website address, you will need to add it to the allow list.

Microsoft Edge Kids Mode

On Microsoft Edge's website about parental controls they state the following:

Individual websites and platforms will feature their own parental controls, such as YouTube and Facebook. Taking control over the videos that your child views is key to avoiding offensive or adult content. And keeping an eye on how much personal information your child shares on social media can avoid risks such as interactions with strangers.

Visit these websites and learn about their suite of security controls. You can choose to limit the content that your child sees on these social media platforms, prevent them from sharing content, and set their privacy levels.

This statement says that you, the parent, would need to go to those individual websites and turn on their parental controls at the website level. If you decide to do that, you will then need to make sure you are checking each website or app regularly to keep those safe guards in place. There are apps and programs you can use to help you control them all in one place. Be sure to check out the Tech Savvy page for more details.