Disable AVG Secure Search: Step-by-Step Guide

Updated 6 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

AVG Secure Search is a browser extension that changes your default search engine and homepage to a Yahoo-powered search. This guide explains how to disable or remove it from Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and how to reset your browser settings if it persists.

What Is AVG Secure Search?

AVG Secure Search is a toolbar and browser extension bundled with AVG antivirus software. It is designed to provide “secure” search results, but many users find it intrusive because it hijacks browser settings without clear consent. The extension typically installs alongside AVG products or through third-party download sites, and it can re-enable itself after removal if the underlying AVG program is still running.

How It Gets Installed

Bundled with AVG antivirus installation (often pre-checked during setup)
Installed by other free software downloads that include “offers”
Re-added by AVG’s “Browser Protection” feature after you remove it

The extension works by injecting a script into your browser that redirects search queries to search.avg.com, which then displays Yahoo results. It also sets your homepage and new tab page to the same domain.

How to Disable It in Chrome

Open Chrome and click the three-dot menu (top right) > Settings.
In the left sidebar, click Search engine > Manage search engines.
Find “AVG Secure Search” in the list. Click the three dots next to it and select Delete.
Set your preferred search engine (e.g., Google) as the default by clicking the three dots next to it and choosing Make default.
Go to On startup in Settings and ensure it says “Open the New Tab page” or a specific page you choose.
Go to Extensions (chrome://extensions) and remove any extension named “AVG Secure Search” or “AVG Web TuneUp”.

How to Disable It in Firefox

Open Firefox and click the menu button (three lines) > Add-ons and themes.
In the left panel, click Extensions. Find AVG Secure Search or AVG Web TuneUp and click Disable or Remove.
Go to Firefox Settings (menu > Settings). In the Search section, choose your preferred search engine from the dropdown.
Under Home, set the homepage and new window/tab to your preferred page.

How to Disable It in Edge

Open Edge and click the three-dot menu (top right) > Settings.
Go to Privacy, search, and services > Address bar and search.
Change the search engine used in the address bar to your preferred one.
Go to On startup and set it to “Open the New Tab page” or a custom URL.
Go to Extensions (edge://extensions) and remove AVG Secure Search.

Preventing It from Coming Back

If AVG Secure Search returns after removal, the cause is usually the AVG antivirus program re-adding it. To stop this:

Open the AVG app (e.g., AVG Antivirus Free).
Go to Menu (top right) > Settings > General > Browser Protection.
Turn off the toggle for “Enable AVG Secure Search” (or similar).
If you no longer need AVG, you can uninstall it entirely using the Windows Control Panel or AVG’s own uninstaller.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

“I removed the extension but my search still goes to AVG.” This happens if the browser’s search engine setting wasn’t changed. The extension may be gone, but the default search engine remains AVG. Follow the steps above to change the default search engine in your browser.

“AVG Secure Search is a virus.” It is not malware, but it is considered a potentially unwanted program (PUP) because it changes settings without clear consent. It does not harm your computer, but it can be annoying and may track your search activity.

“Resetting my browser will fix it.” Yes, resetting browser settings can remove the hijack, but it will also delete your bookmarks, saved passwords, and other customizations. Always back up important data first. A full reset is a last resort if manual removal fails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AVG Secure Search safe?

Yes, it is not malicious, but it is a browser hijacker that can compromise your privacy by collecting search data. It is safe to remove.

Why does AVG Secure Search keep coming back?

Because AVG antivirus’s “Browser Protection” feature re-installs it. You must disable that feature in AVG settings or uninstall AVG entirely.

Can I disable AVG Secure Search without uninstalling AVG?

Yes, you can disable it in AVG settings as described above, and then remove the extension from your browser. AVG will no longer re-add it.

Will removing AVG Secure Search affect my AVG antivirus protection?

No. The extension is separate from the core antivirus engine. Removing it does not weaken your virus protection.

How do I reset my browser settings if the above doesn’t work?

In Chrome, go to Settings > Advanced > Reset and clean up > Restore settings to their original defaults. In Firefox, go to Help > More Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox. In Edge, go to Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values.

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