9 Ways to Fix Microsoft Edge Translator Not Working on Windows 11

If Microsoft Edge Translator isn’t working on your Windows 11 PC—whether it’s not appearing, stuck translating, or doesn’t respond when you visit foreign-language sites—fret not! This issue has troubled a number of PC users (including me). After a thorough research and testing, I’m going to break down the 9 most effective ways to fix Microsoft Edge Translator issues in Windows 11. Read on…

Fix Microsoft Edge Translator Not Working on Windows 11

So, what derails the functionality of the Microsoft Translator? Frankly speaking, this issue could arise due to many reasons, such as incorrect browser settings, outdated language packs, broken extensions, or connectivity problems. In this guide, we’ll look into each one of these roadblocks and offer up ways to bring it back to life.

1. Check If Translation Is Enabled in Edge Settings

If translation is turned off in Edge settings, the feature won’t work automatically.

• Open Edge > click the three dots (…) icon at the top-right > Settings.

• Now, select Languages.
• After that, toggle “Offer to translate pages that aren’t in a language I read” to On.

2. Update Microsoft Edge

Note that older versions of Edge might have bugs affecting the translator.

• In the Edge browser, hit the triple-dot icon at the top-right > Settings > About Microsoft Edge.
• Now, Edge will automatically check for updates and install the latest version.

3. Manually Add Languages for Translation

If your preferred or source language isn’t listed, translation may fail.

• Navigate to Settings > Languages > Add languages, then add the required language and ensure it’s set to prompt translation.

4. Clear Edge Cache and Cookies

Corrupted cache or cookies may interfere with the translator.

• Navigate to the Edge Settings by hitting the triple-dot button at the upper-right > click on the three-horizontal lines button at the top left.
• Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data.
• Up next, select Cookies and cached files, then click Clear now.

5. Disable Conflicting Extensions

Extensions like ad blockers or script blockers can interfere with page translation.

• Launch the Edge browser on your PC and click on the triple-dot icon at the top right.
• Now, choose Settings > Extensions.
• Then, disable all non-essential extensions. Restart Edge and test the translator.

6. Reset Microsoft Edge

Misconfigured settings or corrupted data can prevent features like translation from working.

• Open Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values, and confirm the action.

7. Install the Latest Windows Language Packs

Missing or outdated language packs can block translation functionality.

• On your PC, dive into the Settings app > Time & language > Language & region.

• Next, add the language you want translated or displayed, and install any optional features.

8. Test on InPrivate Window or Another Profile

Profile-specific settings or corrupted user data may block translation.

• Press Ctrl + Shift + N to open an InPrivate window or create a new profile in Edge to check if the issue persists.

9. Reinstall Microsoft Edge (Optional)

If none of the above steps work, Edge may need a fresh installation.

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator
   • Press Windows + X to bring up the Device Manager > then click Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
2. Find the Edge Package Name
   Run the following command to locate the installed version of Edge: Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Edge* Look for the PackageFullName, which will look something like: Microsoft.MicrosoftEdge_44.19041.1.0_neutral__8wekyb3d8bbwe
3. If you’re targeting Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based), use this instead: cd "C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application" .\setup.exe --uninstall --system-level --verbose-logging --force-uninstall
4. Run the Uninstall Command
   This command will uninstall the Chromium-based Edge: Start-Process -FilePath "C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application\<version>\Installer\setup.exe" -ArgumentList "--uninstall --system-level --force-uninstall" -Verb RunAs Replace <version> with the installed Edge version (e.g., 125.0.2535.67).
5. Tip: You can find the version by navigating to: plaintextC:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Edge\Application

Once you have successfully uninstalled the browser, install it from the Microsoft Store.

Wrapping up..!

That’s pretty much it! Microsoft Edge’s Translator is a helpful tool, but it may stop working due to misconfigurations or software conflicts. By systematically applying these fixes—from checking translation settings to resetting or reinstalling Edge—you can restore this feature with minimal hassle. If the issue continues even after trying all methods, consider using dedicated translator extensions or switching to another browser temporarily.