Make Chrome, Firefox or Safari your Mac's default browser

Why it happens

When you click a link in Mail, Messages or another app, your Mac sends it to whichever browser is set as the default. A new Mac starts with Safari. Installing another browser doesn't change that until you choose it.

How to fix it

1. Install the browser you want and open it once, so your Mac knows it's there.

2. Open System Settings, click Desktop & Dock, scroll down and pick your browser from Default web browser.

   Desktop & Dock›Default web browser

3. If a box asks whether to switch, click the button to use the new browser.

4. Click a link in Mail or Messages to check that it opens in the right place.

Still not fixed?

1. If your browser isn't in the menu, make sure it's in the Applications folder, not running from a download. Open it from there once and look again.

   Finder›Applications

2. Some apps open links in their own built-in viewer whatever you choose. Check that app's settings.

3. If email links open the wrong mail app, set the Default email reader in Mail's General settings.

   Mail›Settings…›General›Default email reader

4. If the choice keeps switching back after a restart, contact Apple Support.