Why is Google not listed as a search engine in Chrome, so I can select it as a default?

Lucy Radley 0 Reputation points
2025-12-02T10:43:49.13+00:00

Since the last update, my default search engine in Chrome is Yahoo. When I go into settings > search engine Google is not listed as an option to choose, and there appears to be no way of adding it.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Settings
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  1. Q&A Assist
    2025-12-02T10:43:58.0566667+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    If Google is not listed as a search engine option in Chrome, it may be due to a few reasons:

    1. Browser Settings: Sometimes, browser settings can change after updates, which might affect the availability of search engines. You can check the settings in Chrome by going to Settings > Search engine > Manage search engines. If Google is not listed, you may need to add it manually.
    2. Default Search Engine Policy: If you are using a managed device (like in a corporate or educational environment), the administrator might have set policies that restrict the ability to change the default search engine. In such cases, you may need to contact your IT department.
    3. Browser Extensions: Certain extensions can interfere with search engine settings. If you have any extensions installed, try disabling them to see if that resolves the issue.
    4. Reset Chrome Settings: If the issue persists, you can try resetting Chrome to its default settings. This can often resolve issues related to search engines not appearing.

    If you are still unable to add Google as a search engine after trying these steps, consider checking for any updates to Chrome or reinstalling the browser.


  2. DaveM121 810.4K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-02T12:33:16.8033333+00:00

    If Google is not in the list of available search engines in Chrome, that is very unusual, uninstall any extensions you may have installed in Chrome, then restart the browser.

    If that does not resolve the problem, completely uninstall Chrome, restart your PC, then download and install the latest version of Chrome form the Google website.

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  3. Lucus-V 2,685 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-12-04T07:42:52.7666667+00:00

    Hi Lucy Radley,
    Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum. I'm happy to help.

    Google Search might be removed accidentally on list of search engines, you can manually add it back by this instruction: Set default search engine and site search shortcuts - Computer - Google Chrome Help.

    I hope that above information is helpful to you.

    If you have further questions, please feel free to let me know.


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