This article shows you how to set an internet browser other than Safari as the default browser on a Mac. The most popular and popular third-party browsers include Google Chrome, Firefox and Opera, but you can choose to use and set as default any browser installed on your Mac.
Steps
Step 1. Download and install your preferred browser on your Mac
If the program you intend to use has not yet been installed, you will need to download its installation file before you can continue:
- Google Chrome - go to the following URL and press the blue button Download Chrome;
- Firefox - go to the following URL and press the green button Download now;
- Opera - go to the following URL and press the green button Download now.
Step 2. Install your chosen browser
Follow these instructions:
- Double click the mouse to select the DMG file you just downloaded;
- Follow the on-screen instructions (when available);
- Drag the program icon into the folder Applications;
- Hold down the Control key while selecting the window for the DMG file;
- Choose the option Eject from the drop-down menu that appeared.
Step 3. Enter the "Apple" menu by clicking the icon
It features the Apple logo and is located in the upper left corner of the screen. A drop-down menu will appear.
Step 4. Choose the System Preferences… item
It is one of the options present in the drop-down menu that appeared. The "System Preferences" dialog box will appear.
Step 5. Select the General icon
It is visible in the upper left corner of the "System Preferences" window. Within the appeared screen you will be able to change the system default browser.
Step 6. Access the "Default Web Browser" drop-down menu
It is visible in the center of the appeared window. A list of options will be displayed.
Step 7. Select the browser you want to use from the list that appears
If the program is installed on your system and is updated to the latest version available, it should appear in the "Default web browser" option menu.
If the browser you want to use doesn't appear in the list, try restarting your Mac, then go back to the "System Preferences" window and try again
Step 8. Close the "System Preferences" window
All changes to the configuration settings will be saved automatically. At this point the HTML links and any document or app relating to the web will be opened using the default internet browser you just set.
