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How to Fix Edge Startup Boost Using Too Much RAM in the Background

Edge Startup Boost can keep processes running after you close the browser, and Kudu can help reduce that background memory use.

By the Kudu Team · Reviewed

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What Causes This?

Microsoft Edge Startup boost preloads parts of the browser so Edge opens faster. On some systems, Edge can also keep background extensions or helper processes running after you close the last browser window. If both features are enabled, memory use may stay higher than you expect until you sign out, restart, or fully stop the remaining Edge processes.

Common Symptoms

  • Edge processes still appear in Task Manager after you close the browser
  • RAM usage stays higher than expected when no Edge window is open
  • Memory pressure is worse after startup or after using Edge for a while
  • Other apps or games have less free memory available
  • Edge reopens quickly, but keeps some background activity alive

How to Fix It Manually

  1. Turn off Startup boost in Edge

    • Open Microsoft Edge.
    • Click the three-dot menu > Settings.
    • Open System and performance.
    • Turn Startup boost Off.

  2. Stop Edge from running in the background

    • Stay in Settings > System and performance.
    • Turn Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed Off.
    • This setting is a common reason Edge keeps using RAM after you close it.

  3. Close leftover Edge processes

    • On Windows, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
    • On macOS, open Activity Monitor.
    • On Ubuntu or Fedora, open System Monitor.
    • Look for Microsoft Edge processes after all Edge windows are closed.
    • End the remaining Edge processes, then check whether they stay gone.
    • If they return immediately, restart the computer after changing the Edge settings above.

  4. Disable unnecessary Edge extensions

    • Open Edge and go to edge://extensions.
    • Turn off extensions you do not need.
    • Close Edge completely and check again for leftover processes.
    • Some extensions can keep background components active.

  5. Check startup items on your OS

    • On Windows, open Task Manager > Startup apps and disable Microsoft Edge if it appears there.
    • You can also check Settings > Apps > Startup for an Edge entry.
    • On macOS, check System Settings > General > Login Items for Edge or related helper items.
    • On Ubuntu/Fedora, check your startup applications list for Edge if you added it there.
    • This will not replace Edge's own Startup boost setting, but it can reduce extra background launches after sign-in.

  6. Restart and verify memory use

    • Restart your computer.
    • After signing back in, wait a minute without opening Edge.
    • Check Task Manager, Activity Monitor, or System Monitor again.
    • If Edge is no longer sitting in the background, the issue was likely caused by Startup boost, background apps, or an extension.

  7. Reset Edge if the problem continues

    • Open Edge and go to Settings > Reset settings.
    • Select Restore settings to their default values and confirm.
    • This does not remove your bookmarks, but it resets settings and disables extensions.
    • If the problem started after a browser update or extension change, this can help.

Fix It Automatically with Kudu

Kudu can help you spot and disable startup items that relaunch apps in the background after sign-in. Its Performance Monitor can also show whether Edge processes are still using memory after you close the browser, and its Startup Manager can help you disable related startup entries on supported platforms. Kudu does not change Edge browser settings for you, so you should still turn off Startup boost and Edge background apps inside Edge itself.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Edge still in Task Manager after I close it?
Usually because Startup boost or background extensions and apps are still enabled. An extension can also leave a helper process running until you end it or restart.
Will turning off Startup boost make Edge slower?
It can make Edge take a little longer to open from a fully closed state. It should not affect normal browsing once the browser is already open.
Does resetting Edge delete bookmarks or saved passwords?
Resetting Edge settings does not remove your bookmarks. Saved passwords are normally kept, but extensions are disabled and many browser settings are returned to default.
Can malware cause Edge to keep running in the background?
Sometimes, but browser settings and extensions are more common causes. If Edge keeps relaunching or you see unknown extensions or startup entries, run a trusted antivirus scan and a second-opinion malware scan.
Kudu App cache cleaning

App cache cleaning

Clear caches for supported apps

Kudu’s cleaner includes rules for browsers, chat apps, launchers, and developer tools. Every item is listed for review before removal. Browse the catalog to see what is covered.

Download Kudu Free →How App cache cleaning works

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