Windows Search has long been criticized for its inefficiency in locating files and applications, with its web search capabilities not faring much better. By default, when users enter a query in the taskbar search box, they receive suggestions that include results from Microsoft Edge and Bing. This integration, while intended to streamline the search experience, often leads to frustration for those who prefer alternative search engines.
In an effort to enhance user experience, Microsoft previously allowed users to select their preferred browser for searches. However, this option was subsequently removed, prompting some users to disable web search features entirely through the registry editor. Recently, a tool named MSEdgeRedirect has emerged, offering a workaround by allowing users to replace Bing with Google or other search engines. While it does not completely eliminate Bing results from the search highlights, it does redirect searches to the user’s chosen search engine via their default browser.
The issue with Bing
Despite Microsoft’s continuous improvements to Bing, including the incorporation of AI features, many users still find Google to be superior. Personal experiences reveal that Bing often struggles with outdated results, particularly when searching for troubleshooting guides or statistical data. Furthermore, Bing’s performance in local searches is notably lacking compared to Google, which excels in providing relevant location-based information. For instance, while Bing displays a small map in the corner of the screen, Google presents a more prominent and informative map, along with integrated reviews from its own platform.
Moreover, when it comes to searching for specific error codes or phrases, Bing frequently falls short, yielding either no results or irrelevant ones, whereas Google tends to deliver accurate and pertinent information.
Replacing Bing with Google using MSEdgeRedirect
MSEdgeRedirect is a straightforward tool available for download on GitHub. It can be installed with or without administrative permissions and operates seamlessly in the background after initial setup. Here’s how to get started:
- Download the MSEdgeRedirect application from GitHub.
- During installation, select Active Mode – Recommended to access the configuration page. Alternatively, choose Service Mode if you prefer it to run in the background without admin rights.
- In the settings, ensure that Bing Search is checked. Google is set as the default replacement, but users can opt for alternatives like DuckDuckGo, Ecosia, Yahoo, or even add custom search engines.
- Click Install to save your settings, and you can access the tool from the program menu.
Windows Search is better with Google
After implementing MSEdgeRedirect, users can redirect their Windows Search queries to Google, which opens in their preferred browser. This adjustment often results in more relevant search outcomes, particularly for location-based queries. However, it is important to note that search highlights may still display Bing results, and users must either press Enter or click the ‘Open results in browser’ button to view Google results. This feature proves useful for quick searches when the browser is not already open.
MSEdgeRedirect functions by intercepting commands directed to Microsoft Edge and rerouting them to the default browser. This process involves converting Edge-specific links into standard web links, allowing for compatibility with any browser of choice.
While MSEdgeRedirect is a viable solution, other tools like OpenWebSearch, GoAwayEdge, and Wedge also offer effective alternatives worth exploring.
Get the most out of Windows Search
Although Windows Search has its limitations, users can enhance their experience with various tips and tools. Utilizing PowerToys Run can facilitate quicker and more precise searches, while filtering results by category can yield more relevant outcomes. For those seeking an even more efficient search experience, third-party tools like Everything may prove beneficial. If persistent issues arise, users may need to delve deeper into troubleshooting Windows Search to resolve underlying problems.
