Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems“Search Google or type a URL” is Chrome’s prompt for its omnibox: one field that can either search the words you enter or open a website address. Type a question or topic to search with the default search engine for that Chrome profile; type a site address to go there directly.
What the prompt means
The omnibox combines the address bar and search field. Its hint describes the two ways to use it; seeing the message by itself does not mean Chrome has a problem. Chromium describes the design as merging location and search fields while offering suggestions or early results (Chromium Omnibox documentation).
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How to search or open a website
- To search: Type a few words or a question, then press Enter. Chrome sends the input to the default search engine configured for that profile.
- To open a known site: Type its web address, such as
example.com, then press Enter. Chromium documents that input resembling a URL is treated as a URL.
What happens with an ambiguous entry
A single word can be interpreted as either a search query or a local hostname. Chromium says its behavior generally favors showing web search results for a one-word entry while checking in the background for a local host. URL-like syntax, such as adding a slash, can signal that you intend to navigate. This is Chromium’s documented behavior, not a guarantee for every browser or version. If you need to reach a particular site, enter its complete address.
Does Chrome always search Google?
No. The prompt mentions Google, but the search provider depends on the default set for the Chrome profile. Google says Chrome uses Google Search by default in some countries; users in others may be asked to choose a default. Settings, country, or a work or school administrator can also affect the selection. See Google’s instructions for setting the default search engine and site search shortcuts.
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Change Chrome’s default search engine
- Open Chrome’s Settings.
- Select Search engine.
- Choose Change next to the search engine used in the address bar, then select the provider you want. Google documents these steps for Chrome desktop; a work or school administrator may manage the setting.
If the search engine changed unexpectedly
An unexpected change to the default search engine can have several causes. Google’s help page says an unexpected change might indicate malware, but the omnibox prompt itself is not evidence of infection. Check the search engine setting and, if the change was unintentional, follow Google’s guidance for investigating it rather than diagnosing the device from the hint alone.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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