Deleting Bing from Windows 10 can be a bit tricky, but it’s doable. You’ll need to tweak both your browser settings and some system settings. The steps below will guide you through removing Bing as your default search engine and preventing it from appearing in your search results.
How to Delete Bing from Windows 10
By following these steps, you’ll effectively remove Bing from your Windows 10 environment. This includes changing your default search engine in browsers and tweaking Windows settings.
Step 1: Change the Default Search Engine in Your Browser
First, open your preferred web browser and navigate to the settings menu.
Each browser is different, but generally, you’ll find this option under something like "Settings" or "Preferences." Look for a section labeled "Search" or "Search Engine."
Step 2: Remove Bing from Browser Search Options
Once in the search settings, find the option to "Manage search engines."
From here, you can remove Bing by clicking on the three dots next to it and selecting "Remove." Make sure to set your preferred search engine as the default.
Step 3: Disable Bing in Windows Search
Open the Windows Start menu and type "Regedit" to open the Registry Editor.
Be cautious here. The Registry Editor is a powerful tool, so make sure to follow these steps precisely. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionSearch.
Step 4: Modify the Registry to Disable Bing
In the Registry Editor, right-click in the right pane and select "New" > "DWORD (32-bit) Value."
Name this new value "BingSearchEnabled" and set its value to 0. This disables Bing in Windows search.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Finally, restart your computer to apply the changes.
A reboot ensures all settings take effect, and you should now find that Bing no longer appears in your search results.
After completing these steps, Bing should no longer be your default search engine, nor should it appear in your Windows search results. Your searches will now be powered by the search engine of your choice.
Tips for Deleting Bing from Windows 10
- Create a Restore Point: Before editing the registry, create a restore point in case something goes wrong.
- Use a Different Browser: Some browsers allow easier customization of search engines than others. Consider switching if you find the process too cumbersome.
- Regular Backups: Regularly back up important data to avoid any potential loss during system modifications.
- Be Cautious with Third-Party Tools: There are third-party tools claiming to remove Bing from Windows 10. Use them cautiously, as they might come with risks.
- Keep Software Updated: Make sure your operating system and browsers are up to date. Updates often include options that make it easier to customize settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I completely remove Bing from Windows 10?
Not entirely. While you can disable it and change your default search engine, some aspects of Bing are integrated into Windows.
Is it safe to edit the Windows Registry?
Yes, but be very careful. Mistakes can cause system issues. Always back up the registry before making changes.
Will removing Bing affect Cortana?
Yes, disabling Bing in Windows search will limit some of Cortana’s functionality as it relies on Bing for web searches.
Can I switch back to Bing if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Just follow the same steps but re-enable Bing and set it as your default search engine again.
Do I need administrative privileges to change these settings?
Yes, you’ll need administrative rights to edit the Windows Registry and make system-level changes.
Summary
- Change the default search engine in your browser.
- Remove Bing from browser search options.
- Disable Bing in Windows search using the Registry Editor.
- Modify the registry to disable Bing.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
And that’s it! You’ve now learned how to delete Bing from Windows 10. While Bing is integrated deeply into Windows, these steps allow you to minimize its presence and customize your search preferences. Adjusting your browser settings and tweaking the Windows Registry might seem daunting, but with careful steps, it’s manageable.
Remember, always back up your data and create restore points before making significant changes to your system. This ensures you can revert to a previous state if something goes wrong. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. For more tips and tricks on customizing your Windows experience, be sure to check out our other articles. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.