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Google Chrome

Disable Use of Search Engine Suggestion / Prediction Services

SUMMARY: Prevent Google Chrome from querying search engine suggestion / prediction services when typing text or web addresses into the address bar.

By default, when typing text or web address URLs into Google Chrome's address bar, Google Chrome will query the default search engine's suggestion / prediction service to find related queries or matches to your entered URL/search.

If you do not find these services useful, or are concerned about your privacy when entering searches and URLs into the address bar, make the following tweak:


Typing "president" in Google Chrome's address bar shows related searches and websites



1. Click the wrench button.

2. Select "Settings".

3. A new "Settings" tab appears. If you'd like, the following URL also gets you here:

chrome://chrome/settings/


Since you are concerned about privacy, you may wish to prevent Instant Search support, where searching appears as you type - but your input may be logged. Underneath "Search", uncheck "Enable Instant for faster searching".


Disabling Instant Search in Google Chrome



4. Click the "Show advanced settings" link at the bottom of the window.

5. Scroll down underneath "Privacy" and uncheck "Use a prediction service to help complete searches and URLs typed in the address bar".


Prevent Google Chrome from using a prediction service for searches and URL entry



6. When done you can simply close the "Settings" tab.

This tip was updated for Google Chrome 21.0.1180.79 running on a Windows 7 system. Features, information, and screenshots for other versions / operating systems may vary.

Return to the Google Chrome page.

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The MalekTips website was created in 1998 by Andrew Malek of Envision Programming. The page's goal is to freely disperse computer-related tips, hints, and informative articles. Tips are organized to be easy to find, and are presented clearly, in easy-to-understand language. MalekTips also provides information and links to public-domain, open source, freeware, shareware, and commercial software available for download.