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Disable Microsoft Edge Search Bar in Windows 11

Written by

Richard

Dec 3, 2024 Updated Mar 20, 2026 3 min read

You disable the Microsoft Edge Desktop Search Bar in Windows 11 to remove the search bar widget from your desktop.

The Edge desktop search bar is a small widget that lets you quickly search the web or launch websites directly from your Windows 11 desktop.

This feature, while convenient for some, can be intrusive or unnecessary for many users who prefer a cleaner desktop experience. You can remove it using the Windows Registry Editor.

Disable the Edge search bar

As mentioned, you can prevent users from launching or using the Edge search bar in Windows.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open the Windows Registry and navigate to the folder key path below.

💻Code

ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftEdge

Right-click Edge > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name the new DWORD SearchbarAllowed.

Double-click SearchbarAllowed and change the value 0 to disable the Edge search bar in Windows.

disable edge search bar

If the Edge search bar is disabled and you wish to enable it, delete these two value names listed in the space.

💻Code

SearchbarAllowed
WebWidgetAllowed

You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

In summary, disabling the Microsoft Edge Desktop Search Bar in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be accomplished through the Windows Registry. Here are the key points to remember:

Access the Registry: Open the Windows Registry Editor and navigate to the appropriate key path.
Create a DWORD: Right-click on the Edge folder and create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named SearchbarAllowed.
Set the Value: Change the value of SearchbarAllowed to 0 to disable the search bar.
Delete Values to Re-enable: If you wish to enable the search bar again, delete the SearchbarAllowed and WebWidgetAllowed values.
Reboot Required: A system reboot may be necessary for the changes to take effect.

By following these steps, you can manage the functionality of the Edge search bar according to your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I disable the Microsoft Edge search bar in Windows 11?

To disable the Microsoft Edge search bar, open the Windows Registry Editor and navigate to ComputerHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftEdge. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named SearchbarAllowed and set its value to 0.

What happens if I set the SearchbarAllowed value to 0?

Setting the SearchbarAllowed value to 0 will disable the Microsoft Edge search bar on your desktop, preventing users from launching it. You may need to reboot your computer for the changes to take effect.

Can I enable the Edge search bar again after disabling it?

Yes, to re-enable the Edge search bar, you need to delete the SearchbarAllowed and WebWidgetAllowed values in the Windows Registry. After deleting these values, a reboot may be required for the changes to take effect.

Is it safe to modify the Windows Registry to disable the Edge search bar?

Modifying the Windows Registry can be safe if done carefully, but it's important to back up the registry before making changes. Incorrect modifications can lead to system issues, so proceed with caution.

Will disabling the Edge search bar affect my default browser settings?

Disabling the Edge search bar does not change your default browser settings; it only prevents the Edge search bar from being used. You can still use your preferred browser for web searches and browsing.

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Tags: #Microsoft Edge

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About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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