The Edge browser is a web browser created by Microsoft that is built into the Windows 10 platform and replaces Internet Explorer as the default program for opening web links. One of the key differences between the two browsers is that Adobe Flash Player and a PDF reader are integrated removing the need to install these two add-ins separately as well as reducing the maintenance requirements. Microsoft Edge also adds the use of extensions to add additional functionality to the browser. Unfortunately, Microsoft was late in adding this feature (March 2016) and the assortment of extensions available for Edge is relatively low compared to Google Chrome.
Edge extensions are 3rd party add-ons that enhance the functionality of the browser or transform the browser into tools not previously possible within a browser. Extensions are added from the Microsoft Store and although most extensions do not cost money, some commercial applications are either purchased or accessed through a subscription. Once added to an account, extensions can be enabled or disabled. An enabled extension does not necessarily mean that the behaviour of the web browser will change. Some extensions lie dormant in the background when enabled until they click on their icon at which time they perform their intended task. Extensions can happily co-exist with other extensions and there is no definitive limit on how many extensions can run at the same time although having too many extensions running simultaneously will affect the performance of your computer.
Similar to apps on an iPad, it would be impossible to list all of the available extensions. However, common extensions that are useful to assist learners are provided below.