Start11: Change browser/search engine in Start Menu internet searches?

from Stardock Forums

I'm using the "Windows 11 style" start menu option, and I have the classic search options turned on in the search options. My default browser is Firefox, but the search-the-internet icon (the globe) *always* opens an Edge window and Bing. The setting as shown indicates Google as well as Bing, but I've seen no way to change any of this. I don't want either of those defaults, I would like Firefox to load a new tab (I usually have the browser running already) with Google search results, no Edge, no Bing. Is this possible?

I'm using v2.51 on Win11 Home 24H2.26100.3194, if that matters. I looked through old posts where this change-the-browser-default was asked, but there were no useful responses to any of those posts.

Also, I notice that turning the "show search the internet button" option off doesn't remove the globe, that toggle seems to be useless. If it works as per my request then I want the icon there, but if it's only going to take me to Bing on Edge, I'd rather remove it entirely. Is that a bug perhaps?

Thanks for any answers or comments. Just registered my Start11, the vertical (on the left) taskbar was a lifesaver, truly. Many thanks for that! Though I wish there was a way for the tray icons (now at the bottom left corner) to show up in more than one centered vertical row. My taskbar is set about an inch wide on my display, it would hold 3 or 4 icons across easily, saving vertical taskbar space and looking a lot nicer. So put that on the "this would really be nice to have" future feature list??

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3,548 views 5 replies
Reply #1 from Stardock Forums Top

Hello,
I have forwarded your problem/question to Stardock Support Team for their assistance. Please keep an eye on this thread for any updates. We appreciate your feedback and patience.

Basj,
Stardock Community Assistant

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Reply #2 from Stardock Forums Top

Hi eigor40,

Thanks for posting.  We now have this logged for internal review. 

Internal ref: ODNT-9558

Best regards,

Adam McGuinness
Stardock Customer Support Specialist

Multiplicity - Control multiple PCs using one keyboard and mouse
Reply #3 from Stardock Forums Top

Thank you, Adam. I'll keep my notification on for this thread, if any results from your review are added later. Fingers crossed. 🤞

Reply #4 from Stardock Forums Top

Hi eigor40,

In the latest beta release, the default for open web search should now the use your default browser.  We encourage you to give it a try and let us know what you think.  

For instructions how to get the latest Beta, and additional details and feedback, please see:

Thanks again and best regards,

Adam McGuinness
Stardock Customer Support Specialist

Reply #5 from Stardock Forums Top

I ran into a similar thing and ended up using a workaround with a third-party tool to force searches through my default browser. If you’re trying to boost visibility or just curious how others handle SEO for stuff like this, I found https://crowdo.net/blog/seo-outsourcing helpful—it breaks down how some folks manage search relevance without getting too technical.