How to change the default web browser on a Mac

Links open in Safari when you use Chrome or Firefox. The setting in Desktop & Dock that decides which browser opens links, and why a browser keeps asking.

Guide · Updated 22 October 2026

How do I change the default browser on a Mac?

  1. Open System Settings, Desktop & Dock.
  2. Find Default web browser.
  3. Choose the browser you want. Only browsers installed on the Mac are listed.

Links clicked in other apps now open there. Safari stays installed and still works if you open it yourself.

Why is the setting in Desktop & Dock?

Apple keeps it there, near the window settings, on current macOS. It is easy to miss because the pane is long; scroll, or type browser in the System Settings search field.

Can I change it from the browser?

Yes. Most browsers offer to become the default in their own settings, or ask when you open them. Either way, macOS shows a confirmation asking which browser to use; choose the new one.

Why does a link still open in the wrong browser?

  • Some apps choose their own browser for links. Check that app's settings.
  • Links inside a web app or a browser's own window open in that browser.
  • Apps that were open when you changed the setting may need quitting and reopening.

Keep a site you use daily in its own window: turn a website into an app. Too many browser windows: many Chrome windows.

Checked on 22 October 2026 on a MacBook Air (M1) running macOS 27.0.1: Default web browser was read from System Settings, Desktop & Dock.

Questions

How do I change my default browser on a Mac?

In System Settings, Desktop & Dock, choose a browser under Default web browser.

How do I make Chrome my default browser on Mac?

Choose Chrome under Default web browser in Desktop & Dock, or accept Chrome's offer when it asks.

Why do links still open in Safari?

Some apps choose their own browser for links, and apps open before the change may need a restart.

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