How to Enable or Disable Settings Search Helper in Windows 11
The Settings Search Helper in Windows 11 is an AI tool that helps you find PC settings faster. It understands what you type, even if you don’t know the exact technical term.
This smart feature uses artificial intelligence to show you the right settings options instantly. It makes tweaking your computer much easier.
For example, it helps you find Wi-Fi settings quickly, making about 99% of common tasks simpler. The Settings Search Helper works best when your Windows language is set to English, especially in preview builds like Windows 11 version 23H2.
Enable or disable the Settings Search Helper in Windows 11 via the Group Policy Editor or Windows Registry. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows AI and adjust the “Disable Settings agentic search experience” setting. Administrator privileges are required.
How to Turn the Settings Search Helper On or Off
Make sure you’re signed in with an administrator account before you start.
Option 1Using the Local Group Policy Editor (For 🪟 Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, Education)
You can turn off the Settings Search Helper on Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education versions using the Local Group Policy Editor. This tool allows you to manage many Windows features. To disable the helper, find and change a specific setting within the editor; this is a necessary step for these Windows editions.
- Press Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run box.
- Type
gpedit.mscand press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor. - In the left panel, go to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows AI
- In the right panel, find and double-click on “Disable Settings agentic search experience”.
- To turn on the helper, choose Not Configured or Disabled, then click OK.
- To turn off the helper, choose Enabled, then click OK.
Option 2Using the Windows Registry (For All Windows Editions)
You can turn the Settings Search Helper on or off for any Windows 11 edition by making changes in the Windows Registry. This method requires administrator rights and involves editing a system file to adjust the helper’s status. To restore the default setting with the helper turned on, remove a specific registry entry.
⚠️ Admin privileges required for this step.
To Turn On the Settings Search Helper (Default):
reg delete "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WindowsAI" /v DisableSettingsAgent /fTo Turn Off the Settings Search Helper:
The Windows Settings Search Helper improves finding settings by understanding questions asked in plain English, similar to a conversation. This feature guides users directly to their desired settings.
For more official information, check out Microsoft’s guide: Configure the agent in Windows Settings.
Summary
The Settings Search Helper is a new AI tool in Windows 11 version 24H2 that understands your questions to help you find settings or fix issues. You can control it using the Group Policy Editor or the Registry.
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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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