Unwanted browser toolbars are usually installed silently alongside free software. They change your homepage, hijack your search results, and can track your browsing. They're annoying but straightforward to remove.
Step 1: Remove Extensions from Your Browser
Google Chrome
- Click the three-dot menu (top right) > Extensions > Manage extensions.
- Review the list. Remove anything you don't recognise or didn't intentionally install by clicking Remove.
Microsoft Edge
- Click the three-dot menu > Extensions > Manage extensions.
- Toggle off or click Remove for any extension you didn't install.
Mozilla Firefox
- Click the menu (three horizontal lines) > Add-ons and themes > Extensions.
- Remove anything unfamiliar.
Step 2: Fix Your Homepage and Search Engine
Toolbars often change your homepage and default search engine. Put them back:
- Chrome: Three-dot menu > Settings > On startup (for homepage) and Search engine > Manage search engines.
- Edge: Three-dot menu > Settings > Start, home and new tabs and Privacy, search and services > Address bar and search.
- Firefox: Menu > Settings > Home and Search.
Step 3: Uninstall the Programme Behind the Toolbar
Extensions are often paired with a programme installed on Windows. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, sort by install date, and look for anything installed around the same time the toolbar appeared. Uninstall it.
Step 4: Scan for Remaining Malware
Run a quick scan with Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Quick scan to catch anything that wasn't removed manually.
Step 5: Reset the Browser if the Problem Persists
If the toolbar keeps coming back, you can reset your browser to its default settings:
- Chrome: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Edge: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values.
Note: a reset removes all extensions, cookies, and saved settings. Export your bookmarks first.
Still having trouble? Ask us and we can help identify what's installed.