This guide shows you how to make DuckDuckGo your main search engine in Windows 11. You can do this in Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Firefox, and other web browsers.
Why Use DuckDuckGo?
DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused search engine. It does not track your personal data or bing-search-history-in-the-cloud/" class="sal-link" rel="noopener" target="_blank" data-sal-id="20764">search history. It avoids the ‘filter bubble’ effect where search engines show you biased results based on your past activity. Using it helps keep your online life private.
What Happens When You Change This?
When you change your settings, your browser will use DuckDuckGo for every search you type in the address bar. Your previous search history remains on your device, but new searches will not be linked to your profile by the search provider. You can always revert to Google or Bing by following these same steps.
How to Set DuckDuckGo as Default on Desktop
Most browsers allow you to change your search engine preferences in the settings menu. None of these steps require administrative privileges.
For Chrome and Chromium Browsers
- Open your browser and click the three dots in the top right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Click Search engine in the left sidebar.
- Choose DuckDuckGo from the dropdown menu.
For Microsoft Edge
- Click the three dots in the top right corner.
- Select Settings.
- Click Privacy, search, and services.
- Scroll down and click Address bar and search.
- Select DuckDuckGo from the list.
How to Set DuckDuckGo on Mobile Devices
You can use DuckDuckGo on your phone to keep your mobile search configuration private.
For iOS Safari
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Safari.
- Tap Search Engine.
- Select DuckDuckGo.
For Android Chrome
- Open the Chrome app.
- Tap the three dots and select Settings.
- Tap Search engine.
- Select DuckDuckGo.
Troubleshooting: DuckDuckGo Not Appearing
If you do not see DuckDuckGo in your list, you may need to add it manually or install the official extension. You can download it here: DuckDuckGo Extension Download. If you are on a work computer, your IT department may have locked these settings, which would require administrative privileges to override.
Summary
Setting DuckDuckGo as your default search engine is a simple way to improve your online privacy. Whether on Windows 11 or a mobile device, you can quickly update your search engine preferences to stop tracking and biased results. If you ever change your mind, you can easily switch back to your previous provider in the same settings menu.
Does setting DuckDuckGo as default change my browser history?
No, changing your default search engine does not delete or change your existing browser history. It only changes which service processes your future search queries. Your past searches remain stored locally in your browser until you manually clear them through your browser settings or privacy menu.
Does this work on mobile devices or just desktop?
Yes, this works on both desktop and mobile devices. You can configure DuckDuckGo as your default search engine in mobile browsers like Safari on iOS or Chrome on Android. The process is similar to desktop, usually found within the search engine preferences menu in your browser settings.
Was this guide helpful?
100% of readers found this helpful (1 votes)
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.
How do I change edge icon in task bar to duckduckgo in windows 11?
I am using Windows 11 on a laptop PC. I followed the instructions to make DuckDuckGo the default search engine. When I open Edge There is no DuckDuckGo. I am at this time using DuckDuckGo from a link saved to my favorites. Is there a step that is needed to do so that DuckDuckGo is the default search engine?
Like Pedro Espinal, I have the same problem. I have set my default browser as Duckduckgo, but Bing is what comes up when I first open my web browser. I want Duckduckgo to open as soon as I get on my computer. Is there a way to fix this?
I have same problem on my new Lenovo laptop. I followed your instructions, shows Duck Duck Go as my default search engine. I open edge and it is still using that horrible Bing as my search engine. What are the three of us missing here?