How to Change SafeSearch Settings in Windows 11
SafeSearch settings in Windows 11 block adult and explicit material from web searches across the operating system. This built-in privacy filter stops inappropriate content from showing up when you search the web from your taskbar or browser.
You can choose between 3 filter levels: Strict, Moderate, or Off. The Strict setting blocks the most explicit text, images, and videos, while Moderate blocks adult images and videos but leaves normal text results alone.
To change SafeSearch settings, open Settings , go to Privacy & security, then Search permissions. Scroll down to the SafeSearch section and choose Strict, Moderate, or Off. Your selections are saved automatically.
How to Change SafeSearch Settings in 🪟 Windows 11
Windows 11 SafeSearch settings are adjustable through the main Settings app to help you filter adult content out of your search results . Open the Settings app by pressing Win+I, go to Privacy & security, and click Search permissions. From there, you can choose between Strict, Moderate, or Off to control what shows up when you search.
- Open Windows Settings . Click the Start button and then the gear icon. Or press
Windows + Ion your keyboard. More about opening Settings - On the left side, click Privacy & security.
- On the right side, find and click Search permissions.
Windows 11 Search permissions tile - Now, scroll down until you see the SafeSearch section.
- Choose your SafeSearch setting:
- Strict: Blocks most adult content.
- Moderate: Blocks some adult content (this is the default setting).
- Off: No filtering. You see all results.
SafeSearch filter options in Settings - Close the Settings app when you’re done. Your changes are saved automatically.
Another Way: Change SafeSearch Using the Registry Editor (For Advanced Users)
Windows 11 SafeSearch settings can also be updated through the Registry Editor if you prefer a system-wide or automated approach. Press Win+R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the tool, then go to 🗝️HKEY_CURRENT_USER\
⚠️ Admin privileges required for this method.
- Open the Registry Editor. Press
Windows + R. Typeregeditand hit Enter. Learn how to open Registry Editor - Navigate to this folder path:
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Search\Settings - Look for an entry named
SafeSearchModein the right pane. - If it’s there, double-click it. If not, right-click in the empty space. Choose New DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it
SafeSearchMode. - Set its value according to how you want SafeSearch:
0= SafeSearch Off (no filter)1= Moderate filter2= Strict filter
SafeSearch registry setting - Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Summary
SafeSearch in Windows 11 helps keep web searches cleaner by blocking inappropriate content, offering options from Strict filtering to Off, and is easily managed through the Settings app for most users.Was this guide helpful?
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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