Making the Switch: A Comprehensive Guide to Changing from Ecosia to Google

So, you’ve decided to ditch the tree-planting search engine and return to the Google fold? No judgment here. While Ecosia’s commitment to reforestation is admirable, sometimes Google’s ecosystem and feature set are just too compelling to ignore. Changing your default search engine is generally a straightforward process, but the exact steps vary slightly depending on your browser and operating system.

Here’s the short answer: To change from Ecosia to Google, you’ll typically need to access your browser’s settings, locate the “Search Engine” section, and then select Google from the available options or manually add it if it’s not listed. The details vary based on whether you are on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. Let’s dive into the specifics of how to accomplish this across popular browsers and devices.

Switching on Different Browsers

The beauty of modern browsers is their customizability. You’re not stuck with the default options. Here’s how to reclaim Google as your go-to search companion on the most popular platforms:

Google Chrome

Chrome, being Google’s own creation, makes this switch relatively easy.

1. Access Chrome Settings: Click on the three vertical dots (the “more” menu) in the top right corner of your browser window. From the dropdown menu, select “Settings.”
2. Navigate to Search Engine Settings: In the Settings menu, on the left sidebar, click on “Search engine“. Alternatively, you can type “search engine” into the search bar at the top of the Settings page.
3. Select Google as Default: Under the “Search engine used in the address bar” dropdown, you should see a list of available search engines. Select “Google” from the list.
4. Manage Search Engines (Optional): If Google isn’t listed, click on “Manage search engines and site search“. Here, you can add Google manually. Click the “Add” button. Enter “Google” for the search engine name, “google” (or something similar) for the shortcut, and “https://www.google.com/search?q=%s” for the URL. The “%s” is important; it tells Chrome where to insert your search query.

Mozilla Firefox

Firefox, champion of open-source browsing, offers a clear path to customization.

1. Open Firefox Options: Click on the three horizontal lines (the “hamburger” menu) in the top right corner. Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
2. Locate Search Settings: In the Settings menu, click on “Search” in the left sidebar.
3. Choose Google: Under “Default Search Engine,” select “Google” from the dropdown menu.
4. Add Google Manually (if needed): If Google is not listed, scroll down to “Search Shortcuts” and click “Find More Search Engines“. This opens the Firefox Add-ons page. Search for “Google” and install the official Google Search extension. Restart Firefox. Then revisit the previous step.

Safari (macOS)

Apple’s Safari is deeply integrated with macOS. Here’s how to make the change.

1. Open Safari Preferences: In the Safari menu (at the very top of your screen), click “Safari” and then select “Preferences.”
2. Go to the Search Tab: In the Preferences window, click on the “Search” tab.
3. Select Google: Under “Search engine:,” choose “Google” from the dropdown menu.

Microsoft Edge

Edge, Microsoft’s Chromium-based browser, is much more customizable than its predecessor, Internet Explorer.

1. Access Edge Settings: Click on the three horizontal dots (the “Settings and more” menu) in the top right corner. Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
2. Navigate to Privacy, Search, and Services: In the Settings menu, click on “Privacy, search, and services” in the left sidebar.
3. Select Address Bar and Search: Scroll down to the “Services” section and click on “Address bar and search.”
4. Choose Google: Under “Search engine used in the address bar,” select “Google” from the dropdown menu.
5. Manage Search Engines (Optional): You can also click “Manage search engines” to add, edit, or remove search engines. The process is similar to Chrome’s search engine management.

Dealing with Browser Extensions and Malware

Sometimes, changing your default search engine is complicated by persistent browser extensions or, even worse, malware. These can hijack your settings and force you back to unwanted search providers.

Identifying Problematic Extensions

Review your browser extensions carefully. In Chrome, go to chrome://extensions/. In Firefox, go to about:addons. Look for extensions you don’t recognize, or that have suspicious permissions. Disable or remove any that seem questionable.

Running a Malware Scan

If you suspect malware, run a full system scan with a reputable antivirus program. Malwarebytes and Windows Defender are both excellent choices. Removing malware is crucial not just for search engine settings but for overall system security.

Mobile Devices: Switching Search Engines on the Go

Changing your search engine on your phone or tablet is similar to the desktop experience, but with a mobile-friendly interface.

Chrome on Android and iOS

The steps are essentially the same on both platforms:

1. Open Chrome Settings: Tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner and select “Settings.”
2. Tap Search Engine: Scroll down and tap on “Search engine.”
3. Select Google: Choose “Google” from the list.

Safari on iOS

1. Open the Settings App: Go to the “Settings” app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Scroll to Safari: Scroll down and tap on “Safari.”
3. Tap Search Engine: Under the “Search” section, tap on “Search Engine.”
4. Select Google: Choose “Google” from the list.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions that arise when switching search engines:

1. Why isn’t Google listed as an option in my browser’s search engine settings?

This can happen if Google hasn’t been used recently on your browser, or if your browser is configured in a way that hides it. Use the “Manage search engines” option (in Chrome and Edge) or the add-on store (in Firefox) to add it manually.

2. I changed my search engine, but my browser still uses Ecosia for some searches. Why?

This can occur if Ecosia is still set as the default search engine for a specific website or if a browser extension is overriding your default settings. Check the settings of any search-related extensions and clear your browser’s cache and cookies.

3. How do I prevent my browser from automatically switching back to Ecosia?

This often indicates malware or a persistent browser extension. Run a thorough malware scan and carefully review your installed extensions, removing any that you don’t recognize or trust.

4. Does changing my default search engine affect my Google account?

No, changing your default search engine only affects the search engine used by your browser. It doesn’t impact your Google account settings, data, or other services.

5. Can I use Google as my default search engine in private browsing mode?

Yes, the default search engine setting applies to both regular and private browsing modes. However, some privacy-focused browsers may have separate settings for private mode.

6. How do I add Google as a search engine in Microsoft Edge if it’s not listed?

In Edge’s settings, go to “Privacy, search, and services,” then “Address bar and search,” then “Manage search engines.” Click “Add” and enter “Google” for the name, a shortcut like “g”, and “https://www.google.com/search?q=%s” for the URL.

7. Will changing my search engine affect my browsing history?

No, changing your search engine does not directly affect your browsing history. Your browsing history is stored separately by your browser.

8. I’m using a school or work computer, and I can’t change the default search engine. What should I do?

Your ability to change the default search engine may be restricted by your school or workplace’s IT policies. Contact your IT administrator for assistance or clarification.

9. Are there any privacy concerns when switching from Ecosia to Google?

Google is known for collecting user data to personalize search results and advertising. If privacy is a major concern, consider using a privacy-focused search engine like DuckDuckGo, which doesn’t track your searches.

10. Can I change my default search engine back to Ecosia later?

Absolutely! You can always revert to Ecosia by following the same steps outlined above, but selecting Ecosia instead of Google in the search engine settings.

11. What is the best way to completely remove Ecosia from my browser?

To completely remove Ecosia, uninstall any Ecosia-related browser extensions and clear your browser’s cache, cookies, and history. Then, ensure that Ecosia is not set as your default search engine.

12. I’ve tried everything, and Ecosia still keeps coming back! What am I missing?

This points strongly to a persistent and possibly malicious browser extension or even malware deeply embedded within your system. It’s time to bring out the big guns. Consider using a more aggressive anti-malware tool beyond your usual antivirus. Programs like HitmanPro or RogueKiller are designed to find and eliminate deeply rooted threats. If those don’t work, a complete reinstall of your browser (and as a last resort, your operating system) may be necessary. Before resorting to a reinstall, back up any important data.