Mastering Internet Explorer: Setting Google as Your Default Search Engine
So, you’re still rocking Internet Explorer? Respect. While it might feel like a relic in the age of Chrome and Edge, IE remains a necessity for some, particularly in enterprise environments or for accessing legacy websites. And if you’re using it, you likely want the power and familiarity of Google Search right at your fingertips. Here’s the straight dope:
To make Google your search engine in Internet Explorer, you need to access Internet Explorer’s settings, specifically the “Manage Add-ons” section. From there, you can find the “Search Providers” option, locate Google, and set it as your default. We’ll walk you through the steps in detail.
Step-by-Step Guide to Google-fy Your IE
Here’s a more granular look at the process. We’re assuming you’re using a relatively recent version of Internet Explorer (IE 11), but the principles are similar across versions.
Open Internet Explorer: Fire up your trusty IE browser. It might be hiding in your Start Menu or pinned to your Taskbar.
Access the Gear Icon (or Tools Menu): Look for a gear icon (settings) in the upper-right corner of the browser window. If you don’t see it, press the Alt key to reveal the classic menu bar. Then, click “Tools“.
Navigate to “Manage Add-ons”: In the dropdown menu, select “Manage add-ons“. This will open a new window with a list of all the add-ons installed in your browser.
Select “Search Providers”: In the left-hand pane of the “Manage Add-ons” window, click on “Search Providers“. This will display a list of search engines currently available to Internet Explorer.
Locate Google (or Add It):
- If Google is already listed: Click on Google in the list of search providers.
- If Google is NOT listed: This is where things get a little trickier. In most cases, visiting Google’s website directly should prompt Internet Explorer to automatically offer to install Google as a search provider. If this doesn’t happen, go to www.google.com. Then return to the “Manage Add-ons” window. Google should now appear on the list.
Set Google as Default: With Google selected in the “Search Providers” list, look for a “Set as default” button at the bottom of the window. Click this button.
Close the “Manage Add-ons” Window: Click “Close” to exit the “Manage Add-ons” window.
Test It Out: Open a new tab or window and type a search query into the address bar (which should now be acting as your search box). You should be directed to Google’s search results page. Congratulations, you’ve successfully made Google your default search engine in Internet Explorer!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are a few potential hiccups and their solutions:
- Google Doesn’t Appear in the List: If Google isn’t showing up in the “Search Providers” list, even after visiting Google’s website, ensure that you haven’t inadvertently blocked or disabled Google-related add-ons. Also, check your Internet security settings to ensure they aren’t preventing the addition of new search providers.
- “Set as Default” Button is Grayed Out: This usually indicates that another search engine is set as the default and is somehow protected (often by bundled software or malware). You may need to uninstall the software that is forcing that search engine to be the default, or use a malware scanner to remove any unwanted browser hijackers.
- Search Queries Still Redirect to the Wrong Place: If your searches are still being redirected to a different search engine, even after setting Google as the default, you might have a browser hijacker installed. Run a thorough scan with a reputable anti-malware program. Examples include Malwarebytes and HitmanPro.
FAQs: Google and Internet Explorer Deep Dive
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the topic:
1. Why can’t I just type “google.com” into the address bar every time I want to search?
You can, of course. However, setting Google as your default search engine allows you to type your search queries directly into the address bar and immediately get Google’s search results, saving you a step each time.
2. Does setting Google as my default search engine also change my homepage?
No, setting your default search engine is distinct from setting your homepage. Your homepage is the page that loads when you open Internet Explorer. You can change your homepage in the Internet Options section of Internet Explorer.
3. How do I change my homepage in Internet Explorer?
Click the gear icon, select “Internet options”. In the “General” tab, you’ll find a field labeled “Homepage”. Enter the URL of the page you want to use as your homepage (e.g., www.google.com) and click “Apply” then “OK“.
4. I have multiple search engines listed in “Search Providers.” How do I remove the ones I don’t want?
In the “Search Providers” list, select the search engine you want to remove and click the “Remove” button (if available). Some search engines installed by other software might be difficult to remove directly.
5. What is a “browser hijacker,” and how do I get rid of it?
A browser hijacker is a type of malware that modifies your browser settings without your consent, often redirecting your searches to unwanted search engines or displaying intrusive ads. To remove a browser hijacker, use a reputable anti-malware program.
6. Will setting Google as my default search engine in Internet Explorer affect other browsers on my computer?
No. Your default search engine setting is specific to each browser. Changing it in Internet Explorer will not affect Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or any other browser installed on your machine.
7. Is it safe to add search providers from unknown sources?
Generally, no. Adding search providers from untrusted sources can expose your computer to malware or privacy risks. Stick to well-known and reputable search engines.
8. I’m using an older version of Internet Explorer. Will these instructions still work?
The exact steps might vary slightly depending on your version of Internet Explorer, but the fundamental principles remain the same. Look for the “Manage Add-ons” or similar option in the “Tools” menu.
9. Can I customize Google search within Internet Explorer?
To a certain extent. Google’s search results page itself offers customization options (e.g., safe search filters). However, deeper browser-level customizations are typically handled through extensions or add-ons, which are less common in Internet Explorer than in modern browsers.
10. Why does Internet Explorer sometimes ignore my default search engine setting?
This can occur if another program is interfering with your browser settings or if you have inadvertently installed a malicious browser extension. It’s always a good idea to run periodic scans to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
11. I’ve followed all the steps, but my searches are still going through Bing. What should I do?
Double-check that you have definitely clicked the “Set as default” button for Google in the “Manage Add-ons” window. Also, make absolutely sure no other program or malware is overriding the settings. Reboot your computer and check again. As a last resort, reset Internet Explorer to its default settings.
12. How do I reset Internet Explorer to its default settings?
Click the gear icon and select “Internet Options“. Click the “Advanced” tab. Then, click the “Reset” button. Be aware that this will erase all your personalized settings, so only do this as a last resort!
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