Info If you're wondering why Microsoft Edge is running again and you've nailed it several times before

[mikeymikec]

Off the top of my head:
Nailing 1: Edge settings > System & Performance > System > Disable Start-up boost and 'continue running background extensions and apps when Edge is closed'.
Nailing 2: Uninstall the Windows Web Experience Pack (apparently: winget uninstall "windows web experience pack"): kills widgets and ensures that no more edge-type processes are running in relation to widgets.

Today I spotted Microsoft Edge running in the background yet again, and I noticed another process with an Edge logo called 'Game Assist'. Go into Settings > Apps > Installed Apps and remove 'Game Assist'.