Removing Bing from the search bar in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that involves a few tweaks in the settings and registry editor. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your search bar uses your preferred search engine instead of Bing.
Removing Bing from Search Bar Windows 11
In this section, you’ll learn how to remove Bing from your Windows 11 search bar. This involves modifying a few settings and making a small change in the registry editor. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Press the Windows key on your keyboard or click the Start button on the taskbar.
This action will open the Start menu, which is the first step in accessing the settings and making the required changes.
Step 2: Access the Settings
Step 2: Click on the "Settings" icon in the Start menu or press "Windows + I" on your keyboard.
In the Settings window, you can access various options to customize your Windows experience.
Step 3: Navigate to Privacy & Security
Step 3: Go to "Privacy & security" in the Settings menu.
In the Privacy & Security section, you can manage how your search data is used, which is crucial for removing Bing from the search bar.
Step 4: Adjust Search Permissions
Step 4: Click on "Searching Windows" under "Windows permissions."
Here, you can tweak the search permissions, including disabling web searches from Bing.
Step 5: Modify Registry Editor
Step 5: Press "Windows + R," type "regedit," and press Enter.
This will open the Registry Editor, where you need to make a small change to completely remove Bing from the search bar.
Step 6: Navigate to the Registry Path
Step 6: Go to the following path: "HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindowsExplorer"
In the Registry Editor, navigating to this specific path allows you to modify the necessary key to disable Bing.
Step 7: Create New DWORD Value
Step 7: Right-click in the right pane, choose "New" > "DWORD (32-bit) Value," and name it "DisableSearchBoxSuggestions."
Creating this DWORD value will help ensure that Bing is disabled in the search suggestions.
Step 8: Set the Value
Step 8: Double-click on "DisableSearchBoxSuggestions" and set the value to 1.
By setting this value to 1, you disable Bing search in the Windows 11 search bar.
Step 9: Restart Your Computer
Step 9: Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.
Restarting your computer will apply the changes, ensuring that Bing is removed from the search bar.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 search bar will no longer use Bing for web searches. Instead, it will rely on your default browser or search engine.
Tips for Removing Bing from Search Bar Windows 11
- Backup Your Registry: Before making changes in the Registry Editor, always create a backup. This ensures you can restore settings if something goes wrong.
- Use Trusted Sources: Only follow guides from trusted sources when modifying system settings or the registry.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version before making these changes.
- Use a Different Browser: Set your preferred browser as the default to enhance your search experience.
- Be Cautious: Making incorrect changes in the Registry Editor can cause system issues. Follow the steps carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the search engine without using the Registry Editor?
Yes, you can change the default search engine in your web browser settings, but removing Bing from the Windows search bar typically requires registry modifications.
Will this affect my web browser settings?
No, these changes will only affect the Windows search bar, not your web browser settings.
Can I revert these changes?
Yes, you can delete the DWORD value created in the Registry Editor to revert the changes.
Is it safe to modify the Registry Editor?
Yes, if you follow the steps carefully. However, always back up the registry before making changes.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Yes, restarting your computer is necessary to apply the changes.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Access the Settings.
- Navigate to Privacy & Security.
- Adjust Search Permissions.
- Modify Registry Editor.
- Navigate to the Registry Path.
- Create New DWORD Value.
- Set the Value.
- Restart Your Computer.
Conclusion
Removing Bing from the search bar in Windows 11 may seem a bit daunting, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a breeze. By following these steps and taking a few precautions, you can have a smoother and more personalized search experience.
Remember, modifying the Registry Editor should be done with care. Always back up your registry before making any changes, and follow the steps outlined above precisely.
If you’re looking for more ways to personalize your Windows experience, there are plenty of resources and forums online to explore. Happy tweaking, and enjoy your new Bing-free search bar on Windows 11!
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.