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How to Set DuckDuckGo as Default in Windows 11

Richard

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The post outlines steps to set DuckDuckGo as the default search engine in various browsers (Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Firefox, etc.) in Windows 11. Stating that DuckDuckGo provides privacy protection, it presents instructions to install different browsers on Windows 11 and configure DuckDuckGo as the default search engine, differentiating steps for Chromium-based browsers and Firefox.

This post shows students and new users steps to make DuckDuckGo the default search engine in Windows 11 when using Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Firefox, or other Chromium-based browsers.

DuckDuckGo is a private search engine. It protects searcher’s privacy and avoids the filter bubble found with other search engine companies, including Google, Bing, and others.

When you install or upgrade to Windows 11, the default browse becomes Microsoft Edge, and the default search engine with Microsoft Edge is Bing. Also, installing Google Chrome, Firefox, and most browsers will make the Google search engine the default for your browser.

If you want to take back your privacy, you can set DuckDuckGo as your default search engine with your browse, and the steps below show you how to do that.

Install your favorite browsers in Windows 11

If you haven’t done so, here are steps to install and make Google Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Vivaldi, and Opera the default web browser in Windows 11.

How to install and make Google Chrome the default in Windows 11

How to install and make Firefox the default in Windows 11

How to install and make Brave the default in Windows 11

How to install and make Vivaldi the default in Windows 11

How to install and make Opera the default in Windows 11

How to make DuckDuckGo the default search engine in Windows 11

Now that you have installed your favorite web browsers follow the steps below to configure DuckDuckGo as your default search engine.

Today’s most popular browsers are based on the Chromium engine, similar to Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. They are all almost identical in settings and function.

The steps below should work on almost all of them except for Firefox.

First, click the ellipsis icon in the toolbar.

Click Settings in the dropdown menu. The menu options should be a bit different for other browsers, but locate the Settings.

In Chrome, select the Search engine link on the left menu. Then, on the Search engine settings page, choose DuckDuckGo as the “Search engine to use in the address bar.”

In Microsoft Edge, browse, select Privacy, search, and service, then select Address bar and search tile on the settings page.

Other browsers may have similar settings but in different locations. Locate your browser’s search bar settings page, click the dropdown menu beside the Search engine used in the address bar, and select DuckDuckGo.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

  • Changing your default search engine to DuckDuckGo enhances your privacy while browsing the web.
  • The process is straightforward and similar across most browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
  • Following the steps outlined ensures you can enjoy an ad-free and private search experience.
  • Regularly check your browser settings to ensure DuckDuckGo remains your default choice.
  • Experience the benefits of searching without tracking or filter bubbles by using DuckDuckGo as your go-to search engine.
Richard Avatar
Richard
Richard, the owner and lead writer at Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast passionate about simplifying complex IT topics. His years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations have honed his ability to provide practical insights 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. He enjoys watching football, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, and spending time with his family when he’s not writing or managing Geek Rewind.

Comments

  1. Richard Pouch Avatar
    Richard Pouch

    How do I change edge icon in task bar to duckduckgo in windows 11?

    Reply
  2. Pedro Espinal Avatar
    Pedro Espinal

    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?

    Reply
  3. Tony Bilbao Avatar
    Tony Bilbao

    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?

    Reply
  4. Rolling Block shooter Avatar
    Rolling Block shooter

    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?

    Reply

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