Disabling Bing search in Windows 11 can be a straightforward process if you follow a few simple steps. You’ll need to access some settings in the Windows Registry Editor, and with a few tweaks, you can turn off Bing integration in your Windows Search. Follow the steps below to get the job done.
How to Disable Bing Search in Windows 11
This guide will help you disable Bing search in your Windows 11 operating system by modifying the registry settings. It’s a relatively simple task that should only take a few minutes.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
When you press these keys, a small window called "Run" will pop up. Typing regedit into the box and pressing Enter takes you to the Registry Editor, where you can make changes to system settings.
Step 2: Navigate to the Right Path
Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindowsExplorer.
In the Registry Editor, you’ll see a lot of folders on the left. These folders are like paths you need to follow. Carefully navigate through them to reach the specified path.
Step 3: Create a New DWORD Value
Right-click on the right pane, select New, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
Once you’re in the right folder, create a new entry by right-clicking in the white space. A menu will pop up, and you need to select “DWORD (32-bit) Value” which is a type of registry value.
Step 4: Name the New Value
Name the new value DisableSearchBoxSuggestions.
Naming the new value correctly is crucial. If you name it something else, it won’t work. So type DisableSearchBoxSuggestions exactly as it is.
Step 5: Modify the Value Data
Double-click the new value and set the Value data to 1.
This step is like flipping a switch. Double-clicking on the new value opens a box where you can set the Value data. Changing it from 0 to 1 will disable Bing search.
Step 6: Restart Your Computer
Restart your Windows 11 computer to apply the changes.
A restart is necessary for the changes to take effect. Once you reboot, the Bing search integration should be disabled.
After completing these steps, your Windows 11 search will no longer use Bing. Instead, it will only search your local files and apps.
Tips for Disabling Bing Search in Windows 11
- Backup Your Registry: Before making changes, always back up your registry to avoid any mishaps.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Mistakes in the registry can cause significant issues, so follow each step precisely.
- Use Admin Rights: You’ll need administrative privileges to make these changes, so ensure you’re logged in as an admin.
- Check for Updates: Sometimes new Windows updates can change settings. Recheck after updates.
- Use Caution: If you’re not familiar with the registry, take your time and proceed cautiously.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I make a mistake in the Registry Editor?
Mistakes in the Registry Editor can cause system instability. Always back up your registry before making changes.
Will disabling Bing search speed up my computer?
It may improve search speed slightly since your system won’t be querying the internet.
Can I re-enable Bing search later?
Yes, you can re-enable Bing search by deleting the DisableSearchBoxSuggestions value or setting its value data back to 0.
Is it safe to disable Bing search?
Yes, it’s generally safe, but always ensure you follow the steps carefully to avoid any issues.
Do I need to restart my computer?
Yes, restarting your computer is necessary for the changes to take effect.
Summary
- Open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to
HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindowsExplorer. - Create a new DWORD value.
- Name it
DisableSearchBoxSuggestions. - Set the value data to
1. - Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Disabling Bing search in Windows 11 is a simple task that can help you streamline your search experience by focusing on local files and applications. By following the above steps, you can ensure that your search results are more relevant to what you’re looking for on your computer, rather than getting web results from Bing. Always remember to back up your registry before making any changes to avoid potential issues. If you find this guide helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with others who might benefit from disabling Bing search in their Windows 11 setup. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.