Getting rid of Bing on Windows 11 can make your browsing experience a lot smoother and more personalized. In just a few steps, you can replace Bing with your preferred search engine, ensuring that your searches go through the platform you trust and like the most. Follow the guide below to learn how to remove Bing as your default search engine.
How to Get Rid of Bing on Windows 11
We’ll walk you through the process of removing Bing from Windows 11. You will be changing the default search engine in the Microsoft Edge browser, adjusting settings in the Start Menu, and tweaking some system settings. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge Browser
First, launch your Microsoft Edge browser.
You can find Microsoft Edge by clicking on the Start Menu or searching for it in the taskbar. Once it opens, you’re ready to proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Access Edge Settings
Click on the three dots (menu button) in the upper-right corner and select ‘Settings.’
This will open a new tab with all the settings options for Microsoft Edge, where you can customize your browsing experience.
Step 3: Change Default Search Engine
Select ‘Privacy, search, and services’ from the left sidebar, then scroll down to ‘Address bar and search.’
This section lets you manage your search engine preferences. Look for the ‘Manage search engines’ option.
Step 4: Add a New Search Engine
Click on ‘Manage search engines,’ then click ‘Add’ to input a new search engine.
Here, you can enter the name, keyword, and URL for your preferred search engine. Adding a new search engine is straightforward and gives you control over your search results.
Step 5: Set New Search Engine as Default
Once added, click on the three dots next to your preferred search engine and select ‘Make default.’
Making this change ensures that all future searches will use your chosen search engine instead of Bing.
Step 6: Change Start Menu Search
Open the Start Menu and type ‘Registry Editor,’ then press Enter.
This step involves editing the Windows Registry, so be cautious and follow the instructions carefully to avoid any unintended changes.
Step 7: Navigate to Registry Path
In Registry Editor, navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionSearch.
This path takes you to the Search settings where you can make more adjustments to remove Bing.
Step 8: Modify Search Settings
Right-click on ‘Search’ in the registry path, then select ‘New’ and ‘DWORD (32-bit) Value.’
Name the new value ‘BingSearchEnabled’ and set its value to ‘0.’
Step 9: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to apply the changes.
A quick restart ensures that all your settings are updated and Bing is no longer your default search engine.
After completing these steps, Bing will be removed from your default search settings on Windows 11. Your searches will now go through the search engine you prefer.
Tips for Getting Rid of Bing on Windows 11
- Make sure to double-check the URL format when adding a new search engine.
- Always back up your registry before making any changes.
- Consider using third-party software for advanced customization.
- Regularly update your browser and system settings to maintain changes.
- If you face issues, consult Microsoft’s official support for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I revert the changes if needed?
Simply go back to Microsoft Edge settings and make Bing the default search engine again. For registry changes, revert the ‘BingSearchEnabled’ value to ‘1.’
Will this affect other browsers?
No, this change specifically targets Microsoft Edge and Windows 11’s built-in features.
Is there a risk involved in editing the registry?
Yes, improper changes to the registry can cause system issues. Always back up the registry before making any changes.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Yes, restarting ensures that the new settings take effect.
Can I use any search engine as a default?
Yes, as long as you have the correct URL and keyword, you can set any search engine as default.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Edge Browser.
- Access Edge Settings.
- Change Default Search Engine.
- Add a New Search Engine.
- Set New Search Engine as Default.
- Change Start Menu Search.
- Navigate to Registry Path.
- Modify Search Settings.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Congrats! You’ve successfully learned how to get rid of Bing on Windows 11. It might seem like a lot of steps, but once you get the hang of it, it’s pretty straightforward. By removing Bing, you gain more control over your search experience and can customize it to better suit your needs.
For further reading, check out guides on optimizing your Windows 11 settings or customizing other browsers. Remember, technology is there to serve you, so don’t hesitate to make the necessary tweaks for a better experience. Happy browsing!