Author: Edge Security & Usability Desk Date: 2024 Abstract In the early days of the web, the "Trusted Sites" feature was a blunt instrument—a digital bouncer that either let a site in or threw it out. Today, with Microsoft Edge built on the Chromium engine, the concept of "trust" has evolved into a nuanced, zone-based security model. This paper explores the modern method for adding trusted sites in Edge, why you might need to do it, and the hidden risks of bypassing modern HTTPS security. 1. The Legacy Mindset vs. The Modern Reality Then (Internet Explorer): You had a clear list. Add *.mycompany.com to Trusted Sites, and suddenly ActiveX controls would run, pop-ups would vanish, and file downloads would flow like water.
Before adding a site to Trusted Zones, ask: Does this site support HTTPS? If yes, you don't need this feature. If no, treat that site as a temporary guest, not a trusted friend. Quick Reference Card | What you want to do | Where to do it in Edge | | :--- | :--- | | Allow an old HTTP intranet site | Internet Options (via Windows) > Security tab > Trusted sites | | Disable tracking prevention for a site | Address bar lock icon > Tracking prevention > Off | | Allow insecure mixed content (HTTP on HTTPS) | edge://settings/content/insecureContent > Add allow rule | | Turn off SmartScreen for a trusted site | edge://settings/privacy > Disable SmartScreen (not recommended) | add trusted sites in edge
