How to Manage Microsoft Edge Desktop Search Bar in Windows 11

This article explains how to manage the Microsoft Edge Desktop Search bar in Windows 11.

Microsoft Edge is the default browser in Windows 11. However, users can switch to their preferred or favorite browser anytime. Edge is based on Chromium, similar to Google Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers today.

The Edge browser also has a desktop search bar, allowing you to search the web and launch your favorite sites directly from your desktop. Once you launch it, you can drag it anywhere on your desktop.

The steps below walk you through launching and managing the Microsoft Edge desktop search bar on Windows 11.

Launch Edge Desktop Search Bar

As mentioned, Edge has a desktop search bar that lets you search directly from your desktop without first opening the browser.

Here’s how to do it.

First, open the Microsoft Edge browser.

Then click on Setting and more (Alt+F) 3 horizontal dots button on the top right corner and select More tools -> Launch search bar.

The Edge desktop search bar will appear on your desktop.

If the search bar is hidden behind windows on your screen, use the keyboard shorts below to bring it on top of other windows.

Press the Win + Shift + F keys.

Close the desktop search bar

When the Edge search bar is displayed on your desktop, you can close it if you don’t need it.

To do that, click the Settings and more (3 dots) button on the desktop search bar. Then, click the “Close search bar” on the context menu.

When prompted, click the Yes button to confirm.

Launch the Edge search bar at startup

If you always want to show the Edge search bar on your desktop, you can launch it at startup or auto-launch when you log on to your machine.

To do that, click the Settings and more (3 dots) button on the desktop search bar. Then, select the “Auto-launch search bar” on the text menu.

The check mark turns auto-launch on. Clicking again will remove the check mark and disable auto-launch.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

Managing the Microsoft Edge desktop search bar in Windows 11 can enhance your browsing experience significantly. Here are the key takeaways:

• Easy Launching: You can quickly access the Edge search bar from your desktop, saving time when searching the web.
• Customizable Position: The search bar can be dragged anywhere on your desktop, allowing for personalized placement.
• Keyboard Shortcuts: Use Win + Shift + F to bring the search bar to the front if it gets hidden.
• Simple Closing: Easily close the search bar when not in use via the context menu.
• Auto-launch Feature: Set the search bar to launch automatically at startup for consistent accessibility.
• User-Friendly: The interface is designed to be intuitive, making it easy for users to manage their search needs efficiently.

Overall, the Edge desktop search bar provides a convenient way to streamline your web searching process directly from your desktop.