Question
Issue: How to disable website recommendations in Windows?
Hello. I would like to disable the website recommendations I see in Windows 11 but I have no idea how to do this at all.
Solved Answer
Windows Search has long been an integral part of the Microsoft Windows operating system, evolving significantly since its inception. Initially designed as a straightforward tool for locating files and folders on a personal computer, it has undergone numerous enhancements to improve user experience and functionality.
A notable expansion in its capabilities occurred when Microsoft integrated Bing search results into the Windows Search feature. This integration marked a significant step in making Windows Search a more versatile and comprehensive tool, offering users not only local file searches but also the vast expanse of internet-based information at their fingertips.
While the integration of Bing search results in Windows Search is hailed as a useful addition for many, it does not universally resonate with all users. For some, the inclusion of web-based search results in their local search queries is seen as an unnecessary complication, detracting from the simplicity and focus of the tool.
Reasons for this dissatisfaction vary; some users might find it cluttering the search experience with irrelevant information, while others might have concerns over privacy, data usage, or simply prefer a more streamlined search experience focused solely on their local files.
Acknowledging the diversity in user preferences, there are several ways to disable the website recommendations in Windows. These methods range from simple settings adjustments within the Windows operating system to more advanced techniques that might involve registry edits or group policy changes. You can choose an approach that best suits your technical comfort and needs. It is important to note that these methods do not hinder the overall functionality of Windows Search but simply tailor it to better align with individual user preferences.
In addition to customizing search features, maintaining the overall health and performance of a Windows PC is crucial. Utilizing a PC repair tool can be an effective strategy in this regard. These tools are designed to address various underlying issues in the Windows operating system automatically.
Fix 1. Disable website recommendations via Windows Settings
This approach involves accessing the settings menu of the Windows operating system to alter the search functionality. By delving into the search settings, you can easily switch off the feature that displays web-based recommendations, thus ensuring your searches remain local to your computer.
- Open the Start menu by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard.
- Select the Settings option.
- Go to the Personalization category.
- Select the Start section.
- Scroll down to find Show websites from your browsing history and disable the feature.
- Toggle this option to the off position to disable web recommendations.
Fix 2. Edit Group Policy to restrict web results
This solution is suitable for users who have access to the Group Policy Editor, a powerful tool within Windows that allows for more advanced system customizations. By modifying specific policies, you can effectively restrict Windows Search from displaying results from the web, thereby focusing solely on local content.
- Press the Win + R simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.
- Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to launch the Group Policy Editor.
- In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Search.
- Look for a policy named Do not allow web search.
- Double-click on this policy and set it to Enabled.
- Apply the changes and exit the Group Policy Editor.
Fix 3: Modify Windows Registry to remove web search
Altering the Windows Registry is a more technical approach that involves editing system registry keys to remove web search capabilities. This method is recommended for advanced users who are comfortable with making changes to the system registry.
- Press the Win + R simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.
- Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to the following path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer - Right-click on the Explorer folder, select New, then DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the new DWORD as DisableSearchBoxSuggestions.
- Double-click on DisableSearchBoxSuggestions and set its value to 1.
- Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
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Recover your lost files quickly
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Jake Doe is the news editor at UGetFix. Since he met Ugnius Kiguolis in 2003, they both launched several projects that spread awareness about cybercrimes, malware, and other computer-related problems.
