How to Stop Edge From Changing Default Search Engine

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Common Fixes

Fix 1: Change the Search Engine Manually in Microsoft Edge

If Microsoft Edge suddenly changes its default search engine, revert it from its settings.

Step 1:Click thethree-dotmenu at the top right beside Copilot to open EdgeSettings.

Step 2:SelectSearch and servicesin the left sidebar and clickAddress bar and search.

Step 3:Click the drop-down list next to theSearch engine used in the address barand set your desired search engine.

Fix 2: Disable the Search Edge Flag

If Microsoft Edge still uses Bing search besides changing its default search engine, open its experimental features anddisable the Bingsearch feature altogether.

Step 1:Open Microsoft Edge, copy-paste the following path in the address bar, and hitEnter.

Step 2:Search#edge-msb-all-dseand setAllow Microsoft Search with Bing for any default search enginetoDisabled.

Fix 3: Disable Unnecessary Extensions

Maliciousbrowser extensionsare a common culprit behind Edge automatically changing its default search engine. Open Edge settings to disable and remove such extensions.

Step 1:Click thethree-dotmenu at the top right of Microsoft Edge to openExtensions.

Step 2:SelectManage Extensions.

Step 3:Review installed extensions and toggle off the unnecessary ones. Alternatively, clickRemovebelow an extension to uninstall it.

Fix 4: Clear All Edge Browsing Data

Besides extensions, corrupt browsing data can also trigger Edge to change its default search engine. Clearing all Edge browsing data manually should fix it.

Step 1:Open Microsoft Edge settings (check the above steps), selectPrivacy and securityin the left sidebar, and clickChoose what to clearnext to Clear browsing data now.

Step 2:Set Time range toAll time, check the boxes forBrowsing history,Download history,Cookies and other site data, andCached images and files. Remove them by clickingClear Now.

Fix 5: Repair Microsoft Edge

If nothing works, head to your Windows Settings app to repair the Microsoft Edge browser, effectively resolving the default search engine issue.

Note:Repairing Microsoft Edge doesn’t affect your data and browser settings.

Step 1:Press theWindows + I keysto open Settings, selectAppsin the sidebar, and clickInstalled apps.

Step 2:SearchEdgein the search bar, click thethree-dot menunext to Microsoft Edge, and selectModify.

Step 3:Approve the UAC prompt and clickRepairto fix the Microsoft Edge browser.

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Last updated on 22 May, 2024

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