Learning how to remove the search bar from Windows 10 can make your desktop cleaner and help you focus. In just a few steps, you can hide the search bar and still access your search functions when you need them. Let’s dive into how you can do this.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Remove Search Bar from Windows 10
In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the steps to remove the search bar from your Windows 10 taskbar. By the end, your desktop will look more streamlined.
Step 1: Right-Click on the Taskbar
First, right-click on any empty space on your taskbar.
When you right-click the taskbar, a context menu will pop up. This menu contains several options for customizing your taskbar.
Step 2: Hover Over “Search”
Next, hover your mouse over the “Search” option in the context menu.
A sub-menu will appear when you hover over “Search.” This sub-menu offers different options for displaying or hiding the search bar.
Step 3: Click “Hidden”
Select “Hidden” from the sub-menu.
Choosing “Hidden” will immediately remove the search bar from your taskbar. Don’t worry; you can still access search by pressing the Windows key and typing your query.
Step 4: Verify the Change
Finally, take a look at your taskbar to ensure the search bar is gone.
If the search bar is no longer visible, congratulations! You’ve successfully removed it. If it’s still there, repeat the steps to make sure you didn’t miss anything.
After you complete these steps, your taskbar will be free from the search bar, making it look cleaner. You can always bring the search bar back by following the same steps and choosing a different display option.
Tips for How to Remove Search Bar from Windows 10
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: You can still search by pressing the Windows key and typing your search query.
- Minimalist Look: Removing the search bar can help achieve a minimalist look on your desktop.
- Reversible Steps: Don’t worry about making a mistake; you can always bring the search bar back by following the same steps and choosing “Show search box.”
- Alternative Search Methods: You can also use the search icon option instead if you prefer not to hide the search function completely.
- Quick Access to Cortana: Removing the search bar won’t affect your ability to use Cortana; you can still activate it through the Start menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still search without the search bar?
Yes, you can press the Windows key and start typing to search.
Will this affect Cortana?
No, you can still use Cortana by accessing it from the Start menu.
Can I bring the search bar back?
Yes, you can follow the same steps and select “Show search box” to bring it back.
Is there another way to search?
Yes, you can also click the Start button and start typing your search query.
Does this improve performance?
Not really, but it can improve your workflow by reducing clutter on your taskbar.
Summary
- Right-click on the taskbar.
- Hover over “Search.”
- Click “Hidden.”
- Verify the change.
Conclusion
Removing the search bar from your Windows 10 taskbar is a simple process that can help keep your desktop looking neat and organized. While it might seem like a small change, it can actually make a big difference in how you interact with your computer. Plus, it’s easy to reverse if you decide you miss the search bar.
For further reading, you might want to check out other ways to customize your Windows 10 taskbar, such as pinning your favorite apps or using taskbar toolbars. These small tweaks can significantly enhance your productivity.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or family who might also want a cleaner desktop. And don’t forget, the search bar is just a click or two away if you ever need it again. Happy customizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.