Websites do not recognize my Browser

Question

I am having repeated issues with web sites recognizing my computer and/or browser. I have tried two different browsers. I have uninstalled security program... and I still cannot verify my browser to any website.

Answer 1

Hello, thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A.

Could you tell me a bit more about what's happening?

When you say websites are not recognizing your browser, what exactly happens? Do you get an error message, or does the specific site keep asking you to verify/sign in every time you restart the browser?

Answer 2

Use the following steps on Windows 11 with Microsoft Edge to troubleshoot sites that fail to recognize the browser or device.

1. Clear cached data and cookies Old or corrupted cookies can prevent sites from recognizing the browser.
   • Open Edge.
   • Select Settings and more (⋯) > History > Open history page.
   • Select Delete browsing data.
   • Under Time range, choose All time.
   • Select at least Browsing history and Cached images and files (for a full reset, select all boxes).
   • Select Clear now.
   • Close and reopen Edge and try the sites again.
2. Try InPrivate / Incognito mode InPrivate mode runs without most extensions and with a clean cookie store, which can help confirm if the issue is related to cached data or add‑ons.
   • In Edge, press Ctrl+Shift+N to open an InPrivate window.
   • Sign in to the problem sites and test verification again.
   • If it works in InPrivate but not in normal windows, the problem is almost certainly cookies, cache, or extensions.
3. Check third‑party security software Even after uninstalling one security app, another (or remnants) can still interfere with secure connections or scripts that sites use to verify the browser.
   • If using third‑party security software such as Norton or McAfee, open that app and check for updates.
   • Make sure it is fully up to date.
   • If it has web protection, HTTPS scanning, or anti‑tracking features, temporarily disable those and test the sites again.
4. Verify Edge is up to date Some sites require current TLS and browser features.
   • In Edge, select Settings and more (⋯) > Settings > About Microsoft Edge.
   • Allow Edge to check for and install any available updates.
   • Restart Edge and test again.
5. Repair Microsoft Edge If core browser files are damaged, repair can fix them without erasing data.
   • Close Edge for all users on the PC.
   • Go to Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
   • Find Microsoft Edge, select it, then choose Modify.
   • When prompted Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?, select Yes.
   • Ensure the device is connected to the internet, then select Repair.
   • After repair completes, open Edge and test the sites again.
6. Check if the issue is network‑wide or site‑specific
   • Try opening the same sites from another device on the same network.
   • Try a different browser on that other device.
   • If the same verification problem occurs everywhere, the issue may be with the sites or the network (for example, a router‑level security feature). Restart the modem/router and test again.
7. Scan for malware Malicious software or browser hijackers can interfere with normal site behavior.
   • On Windows 10/11, run a manual scan using Windows Security as described in Stay protected with Windows Security.
   • Remove any threats found, restart the PC, and test again.

If the problem persists after these steps, continue using InPrivate mode as a temporary workaround and use Settings and more > Help and feedback > Send feedback in Edge to report the issue, including example sites and what “cannot verify your browser” message is shown.

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References:

• What to do if Microsoft Edge isn't working
• Troubleshooting tips for downloading, installing, and updating Microsoft Edge
• Troubleshoot problems with the My Apps portal
• Microsoft 365 Admin Center not loading - Microsoft Q&A
• My edge is blocking literally almost all sites or address I want to visit. - Microsoft Q&A
• possible virus, computer locked - Microsoft Q&A
• How can I remove McAfee Norton Pop Ups on Windows 11? It is not showing up on Apps or Task Manager. - Microsoft Q&A
• protocol unsupported - Microsoft Q&A

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