Hello John Olczak,
Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Q&A Forum!
Regarding the issue you're experiencing with Websites Timeout When Switching to New Window or App, I understand this must be frustrating, and I'm here to help you resolve this.
It seems that you are experiencing immediate timeouts when accessing certain websites (e.g., health portal) from a new window or tab on a new Windows 11 Home PC. The issue does not occur on older personal or work computers. The workplace portal loads fine, but secondary sites time out instantly. Let’s analyze the root cause of the issue so that we can find the most appropriate solutions.
The timeout when switching to a new browser window or app could stem from several potential causes:
- Browser Configuration Issues
- Network Configuration Problems
- Third-Party Security Software or Firewall
- Incomplete SSO (Single Sign-On) or Token Expiry
To help us narrow down the cause and work towards a solution, please try the following initial troubleshooting steps:
Solution 1: Browser Cookie and Security Settings
For Microsoft Edge:
- Open Edge → Settings (three dots menu)
- Go to Privacy, search, and services
- Under Cookies and site permissions, click Cookies and site data
- Ensure "Block third-party cookies" is set to Off or Allow
- Add your workplace portal to Sites that can always use cookies
For Chrome:
- Settings → Privacy and security → Cookies and other site data
- Select "Allow all cookies" temporarily to test
- Add workplace sites to "Sites that can always use cookies"
Solution 2: Windows Firewall and Security Configuration
- Open Windows Security (Start → Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Security)
- Go to Firewall & network protection
- Click Allow an app through firewall
- Ensure your browsers are allowed through both Private and Public networks
- Consider temporarily disabling Real-time protection to test if Windows Defender is interfering
Solution 3: Optimize Network Settings
- Run Network Troubleshooter
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Run the Internet Connections and Network Adapter troubleshooters to diagnose and fix connectivity issues.
- Follow any prompts to reset network settings if recommended.
- Change DNS Settings
Go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi or Ethernet > Edit next to DNS server assignment.
Set to Manual, choose IPv4, and enter:
- Preferred DNS: 8.8.8.8 (Google)
- Alternate DNS: 8.8.4.4 (Google)
Save and reconnect to the network, then test the portal.
- Reset Network Settings
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset.
- Click Reset now and confirm. This will reset all network adapters and configurations.
- Reconnect to your Wi-Fi or Ethernet and retest the portal.
Solution 4: Disable or Uninstall Third-Party Software
- Check for Pre-Installed Software:
- On a new PC, check for manufacturer utilities (e.g., Dell SupportAssist, HP Sure Click) or pre-installed antivirus software (e.g., McAfee, Norton) that may interfere with network traffic.
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and look for unfamiliar processes under the Processes tab.
- Uninstall Conflicting Software:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Search for and uninstall any third-party security or VPN software.
- Reboot the PC and test the portal.
- Boot in Safe Mode with Networking:
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- Go to the Boot tab, check Safe boot with Network, and click OK.
- Restart the PC and test the portal in Safe Mode to rule out third-party interference. If it works, a third-party app is likely the cause.
I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Please keep me informed.
Warm regards,
Hendrix-MSFT | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist
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