How to move away from Big Tech Web Search Services
Here's a guide on how to easily get away from Bing and Google Search.
Modern web browsers provide users with the flexibility to change their default search engine, allowing for greater control over privacy, data handling, and search experience. In most browsers the process is straightforward. Users can access the browser’s settings menu, navigate to the “Search engine” or “Search” section, and select their preferred search provider from a list of options. Many browsers also allow the addition of custom search engines by entering the search engine’s URL. This feature empowers users to opt for privacy-focused alternatives like Mojeek, Ecosia, or Qwant, or to choose engines that align with their values, such as sustainability or independence from major tech corporations.
Recent lawsuits and regulatory actions have reinforced the principle that users should have genuine choice in selecting their search engine. Antitrust cases against major tech companies, such as Google, have challenged practices that previously limited competition, such as exclusive pre-installation agreements or default settings that favoured proprietary search engines. As a result, browsers and device manufacturers are now often required to present users with a choice of search engines during setup.