- To disable Search highlights on Windows 11, open Settings > Privacy & security > Search permissions.
- Then turn off the “Show Search highlights” toggle switch.
On Windows 11, the “Search highlights” feature in the Windows Search experience shows periodic updates to help you discover more, connect, and stay productive.
The feature is on the right side, and it can show notable moments, including holidays, anniversaries, and other educational moments locally and worldwide. In addition, you will find today’s moment and daily content like word of the day, Microsoft Rewards, trending Searches, and more.
On the left side of the Search interface, the experience will list recent apps, files, settings, and websites that allow you to pick tasks quickly where you left off. You can also use Microsoft Search in the organization if you use a work or school account.
If the Search highlights feature isn’t for you, Windows 11 includes an option to disable the feature for a more traditional experience. Once disabled, the space will include a section showing Search suggestions and your top apps.
This guide will teach you the steps to manage the Search highlights feature for Search on Windows 11.
Disable Search highlights on Windows 11
To disable Search highlights on Windows 11, use these steps:
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Open Settings on Windows 11.
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Click on Privacy & security.
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Under the “Windows permissions” section, click the “Search permissions” setting.
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Under the “More settings” section, turn off the “Show Search highlights” toggle switch.
Once you complete the steps, the Search box will no longer show highlights or recent files in the left pane.
Enable Search highlights on Windows 11
To enable Search highlights, use these steps:
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Open Settings.
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Click on Privacy & security.
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Under the “Windows permissions” section, click the “Search permissions” setting.
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Under the “More settings” section, turn on the “Show Search highlights” toggle switch.
After you complete the steps, the Search box will show periodic updates with content, including fun illustrations, that help you discover more, be connected, and stay productive.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows expert and the Editor-in-Chief who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He's also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 12 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows, software, and related technologies, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ & Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, and LinkedIn.