{"id":439190,"date":"2026-11-02T13:46:32","date_gmt":"2026-11-02T13:46:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=439190"},"modified":"2026-11-02T13:46:35","modified_gmt":"2026-11-02T13:46:35","slug":"remove-yahoo-redirect-firefox-windows","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/remove-yahoo-redirect-firefox-windows\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get Rid of the Yahoo Search Engine on Firefox in Windows 11 and 10"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Firefox keeps switching your search engine to Yahoo on your Windows PC. You pick Google again, and a restart or a new tab brings Yahoo right back.<\/p>\n<p>This guide shows how to get rid of the Yahoo search engine on Firefox in Windows 11 and 10: reset your search, remove what changed it, and keep it fixed.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-seo-firefox-yahoo-default-windows.png\" alt=\"Firefox Settings Search page with Yahoo selected as the default search engine\" width=\"1280\" height=\"717\" class=\"wp-image-440044\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-seo-firefox-yahoo-default-windows.png 1280w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-seo-firefox-yahoo-default-windows-300x168.png 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-seo-firefox-yahoo-default-windows-1024x574.png 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/figure>\n<h2>Overview<\/h2>\n<h3>Why does Firefox keep switching to Yahoo?<\/h3>\n<p>Yahoo is a real search engine, not a virus. Mozilla made it Firefox&#8217;s US default in 2014, but Firefox switched back to Google in late 2017.<\/p>\n<p>When Yahoo shows up without your say-so, something on your PC picked it. These are the usual suspects:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A Yahoo add-on. Yahoo&#8217;s own Firefox add-ons, such as Search and New Tab or Search and Wider Mail, make Yahoo your default search.<\/li>\n<li>A free tool with search attached. Some &#8220;Custom Web Search&#8221; add-ons on Mozilla&#8217;s add-on site, such as file converters and package trackers, use Yahoo search.<\/li>\n<li>A bundled download. Mozilla warns that free software, installers and fake antivirus tools can change your search settings.<\/li>\n<li>A Firefox policy. A program can lock some settings, and Firefox then says &#8220;Your browser is being managed by your organization&#8221; at the top of Settings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Firefox asks before an add-on becomes your default search engine. Clicking yes during a rushed install is enough to make the switch.<\/p>\n<h3>How do I change Firefox from Yahoo back to Google?<\/h3>\n<p>Work through these in order, and run a test search after each one. Stop as soon as Google, or your chosen engine, answers.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Click the three-line menu, then Settings, then Search. Under Default search engine, pick Google or another engine you trust.<\/li>\n<li>On the same page, scroll to Additional search engines. Turn off Yahoo&#8217;s toggle or click its trash can icon, whichever one Firefox shows.<\/li>\n<li>Type about:addons in the address bar and click Extensions. Remove any Yahoo, search, new tab or &#8220;Custom Web Search&#8221; add-on you don&#8217;t use.<\/li>\n<li>Open Settings, then Home and startup. If Yahoo opens at startup or in new tabs, set New windows and New tabs to Firefox Home (Default).<\/li>\n<li>In Windows, open Settings, Apps, Installed apps (Apps &amp; features on Windows 10). Remove unwanted programs installed around when Yahoo appeared, after checking each publisher.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>If Firefox shows its own offer to reset your search engine, click Change Search Engine. Mozilla added that prompt to undo suspected hijacks.<\/p>\n<h3>What if Yahoo comes back after the fix?<\/h3>\n<p>Something is putting it back. Run the scan in Step 3, then Refresh Firefox in Step 4 to clear the add-on or program responsible.<\/p>\n<p>If Settings says your browser is managed by your organization, click that line to see the active rules. The advanced section explains what to do next.<\/p>\n<p><!-- mt-nov-module supported-symptoms 48b335dc1a4c5be5472e72158d14e9445b5fdd0547cce43f6a97f719434e0611 --><\/p>\n<p>This guide covers unwanted search changes, browser hijackers, add-ons and adware. It can&#8217;t recover encrypted files or secure an account someone has already stolen.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-nov-module --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"quick-start\">How to Remove the Yahoo Search Engine From Firefox on Windows<\/h2>\n<p><!-- mt-beginner-module quick-routing f83b5cd411e08d873f262fa4f95acf9d3dc9137d480fe036130080d18f7eadce --><\/p>\n<p>Do the steps in order. As soon as your searches go to the right place, skip to the final check and stop there.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#search-firefox\">Change Firefox&#8217;s search engine<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#check-result\">Confirm the fix stuck<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#advanced-checks\">Advanced fixes if Yahoo keeps returning<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><\/p>\n<h3>Step 1: Choose the search engine you want<\/h3>\n<p><!-- mt-beginner-module prefs-firefox 4fb927b4398314e534c78ebed0f078899434920d1d68c70fa8cb1cf9313fba72 --><\/p>\n<h4 id=\"search-firefox\">Pick a new default search engine in Firefox<\/h4>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open Firefox Settings<\/p>\n<p>Click the menu button with three lines in the top-right corner of Firefox. Then click Settings.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-visual-firefox-menu-excerpt-final.png\" class=\"wp-image-439836\" alt=\"Firefox&amp;apos;s application-menu button, the starting point for opening Settings\" width=\"440\" height=\"300\" title=\"\"><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select Search and choose the engine<\/p>\n<p>In the left column, click Search. Open the drop-down under Default search engine and pick the one you want, such as Google.<\/p>\n<p>Shortcut: type about:preferences#search in the address bar to jump straight there. Firefox saves your choice instantly, with no reinstall needed.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Try a fresh address-bar search<\/p>\n<p>Open a new tab and search from the address bar. If your chosen engine answers, skip ahead to <a href=\"#check-result\">the final check<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Still landing on Yahoo, or does Firefox name an add-on in charge of search? Go to Step 2. If the drop-down is locked, see <a href=\"#advanced-checks\">the advanced fixes<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><\/p>\n<h3>Step 2: Remove the add-on that switched you to Yahoo<\/h3>\n<p><!-- mt-beginner-module extensions-firefox 01de419108c706b829ef9723ab49aed6a82c19f477b8e238e5b472afdb16e194 --><\/p>\n<h4 id=\"extensions-firefox\">Find and remove the add-on in Firefox<\/h4>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open Add-ons Manager, then Extensions<\/p>\n<p>Type about:addons in the address bar and press Enter. Click Extensions on the left to see what&#8217;s installed, not Firefox&#8217;s recommendations.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-visual-firefox-extensions-final.png\" class=\"wp-image-439838\" alt=\"Firefox Add-ons Manager, with the Extensions link in the left sidebar\" width=\"1100\" height=\"760\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-visual-firefox-extensions-final.png 1100w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-visual-firefox-extensions-final-300x207.png 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-visual-firefox-extensions-final-1024x707.png 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1100px) 100vw, 1100px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Turn off a suspect add-on and test<\/p>\n<p>Look for anything mentioning Yahoo, search, new tabs or a free tool. Turn one off with its toggle, open a new tab, and search again.<\/p>\n<p>When Yahoo stops, click that add-on&#8217;s three-dot menu, choose Remove, and confirm. Then reset your search engine in Settings if it didn&#8217;t switch back.<\/p>\n<p>No extensions listed? Skip ahead. If an add-on won&#8217;t remove or reappears, use <a href=\"#advanced-checks\">the advanced fixes<\/a> instead.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Firefox before doing more<\/p>\n<p>Close and reopen Firefox, then search again. If it&#8217;s still right, go to <a href=\"#check-result\">the final check<\/a> and skip the bigger repairs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><br \/>\n<!-- mt-nov-module notification-branch-firefox b2fd26a9f5478bfe1f2715715931df4f18b02b39e3ee43c2ec5ecd718a4c9c10 --><\/p>\n<h4 id=\"notification-check\">If pop-up alerts open Yahoo or other pages<\/h4>\n<p>Only use this if alerts or pages appear when you aren&#8217;t searching. That usually means a site has permission to send notifications, a separate problem from an add-on.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p>In Firefox, open Settings, then Permissions and data (Privacy &amp; Security in older versions). Under Permissions, click Notifications. Set the unwanted site to Block, then click Save Changes.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Never click buttons inside the alert itself. If the alerts stop and your searches look right, you can skip the scan and the reset.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-nov-module --><\/p>\n<h3>Step 3: Scan your PC for the program behind Yahoo<\/h3>\n<p><!-- mt-beginner-module scan-exposure-gate 203f75e9088c7f22318c58340c6612ff6ddb71c8e1a5eb74b27af245fa811db2 --><\/p>\n<p>Skip this if Steps 1 and 2 fixed things. Run it when an add-on returns, an unknown program appears, or Yahoo comes back after a restart.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><br \/>\n<!-- mt-beginner-module scan-windows 164a9c71ff3d9267209e798aff75b93a54277ca96808adee38ff297cf6d58e36 --><\/p>\n<h4>Scan Windows for a program that restores Yahoo<\/h4>\n<p>Use this scan when an unwanted app or add-on keeps coming back. If a settings change already fixed Firefox, you can skip it.<\/p>\n<p>These installer screenshots are examples from our Windows guide. Some editions use different scan options.<\/p>\n<p>Optional purchases may earn MalwareTips a commission. Paid protection is not required for the manual repairs.<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download the Windows installer<\/p>\n<p>Use the Windows download below, not a cleaner promoted by a redirect or warning page.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta\">\n<div class=\"mwt_cta_head\">\n<div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">On-demand scan and threat review<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\">Download Malwarebytes for Windows<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"mwt_cta_more\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener\">Windows download options<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"mwt_cta_more\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-premium-box\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener\">Optional paid protection<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open the setup file and check the publisher<\/p>\n<p>Open Downloads and double-click the MBSetup file you downloaded.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"The Malwarebytes setup file highlighted in the Windows Downloads folder\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>If Windows requests permission, verify the publisher before approving. Don&#8217;t override an unexplained security warning simply to continue.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Complete setup without accepting unwanted extras<\/p>\n<p>Choose Personal for your own PC, then click Next. Work computers belong with their administrator.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes setup offering personal and business installation choices\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Read trial, subscription, and optional extension offers. Decline extras you don&#8217;t want and open Malwarebytes when installation finishes.<\/p>\n<p>Let the installer finish copying its files. Keep it open while the progress bar is moving.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes installation progress, an example of the screen to leave running\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>At the welcome screen, click Get started. Read optional offers before proceeding.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes welcome screen with Get started highlighted\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>When setup confirms completion, click Open Malwarebytes. This opens the application rather than starting a website search.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"Completed Malwarebytes setup with Open Malwarebytes highlighted\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Update and start an available manual scan<\/p>\n<p>In Malwarebytes for Windows, click the three dots on the Scanner tile. Choose Advanced Scan, then Custom Scan.<\/p>\n<p>Quick and Custom scans are free options. The Threat Scan shown in older examples may require a trial or paid plan.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-nov-vendor-windows-scanner-card.png\" class=\"wp-image-439961\" alt=\"Malwarebytes windows Scanner tile in the vendor help image, showing the scan entry point\" width=\"1100\" height=\"320\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-nov-vendor-windows-scanner-card.png 1100w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-nov-vendor-windows-scanner-card-300x87.png 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/mt-yb-nov-vendor-windows-scanner-card-1024x298.png 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1100px) 100vw, 1100px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Select the folders or drives you intend to check. Review the treatment of potentially unwanted programs and modifications, then click Start Custom Scan.<\/p>\n<p>A narrowly selected folder scan does not check the entire device. For a broader built-in Windows check, use the Defender Full scan described below.<\/p>\n<p>This older progress example shows a Threat Scan. Your selected free Quick or Custom scan can have different labels; wait for its result summary.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"A Malwarebytes scan in progress, before the final results are available\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Review detections and quarantine identified threats<\/p>\n<p>Read the detection names and locations. Select the threats to quarantine, and save the report if a finding needs expert review.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"A Malwarebytes Windows detection list with the Quarantine button highlighted\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>These are example detections. Review the actual findings on your own PC.<\/p>\n<p>Choose Quarantine to isolate selected threats. Keep the report, since it can show which program changed your search engine.<\/p>\n<p>Allow quarantine to finish. A progress screen is not yet the final restart or result confirmation.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes processing the selected items for quarantine\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart if requested, then repeat the browser test<\/p>\n<p>Save open work before approving a requested restart. Don&#8217;t interrupt the cleanup simply because the browser appears usable.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes asking to restart Windows to complete the selected cleanup\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>After signing back in, inspect the affected search setting, extension, and policy. A completed scan isn&#8217;t a guarantee that every browser configuration issue is resolved.<\/p>\n<p>If the same detection or Yahoo comes back, keep the report and note exactly when it returns. Ask for help instead of running deletion scripts.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Microsoft Defender provides a built-in alternative: open Windows Security, Virus &amp; threat protection, Scan options, choose Full scan, then click Scan now. Review its results and requested actions.<\/p>\n<h4>Optional second opinion for persistent Windows adware<\/h4>\n<p>AdwCleaner is a separate Windows adware tool. Use it when you suspect unwanted software, not just because a Yahoo results page appeared.<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download and open AdwCleaner<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box mwt_cta\">\n<div class=\"mwt_cta_head\">\n<div><span class=\"mwt_cta_title\">Malwarebytes AdwCleaner<\/span><span class=\"mwt_cta_sub\">Optional Windows adware check<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a class=\"mwt_cta_btn\" data-google-vignette=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/adwcleaner\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener\">Download AdwCleaner<\/a><\/div>\n<p>Open the downloaded Windows executable, verify its source and publisher, and review the license prompt. AdwCleaner doesn&#8217;t require a normal installation.<\/p>\n<p>Find the downloaded AdwCleaner file in Downloads. Open that file, rather than a similarly named search advertisement.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Download-AdwCleaner.jpg\" alt=\"The downloaded AdwCleaner executable in Windows\" width=\"800\" height=\"424\" class=\"wp-image-136932\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Download-AdwCleaner.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Download-AdwCleaner-300x159.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>If Windows asks permission, check the file identity and publisher before choosing Run or Yes for the intended executable.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Windows-asks-to-run-AdwCleaner.jpg\" alt=\"Windows asking whether to run the downloaded AdwCleaner executable\" width=\"585\" height=\"424\" class=\"wp-image-136935\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Windows-asks-to-run-AdwCleaner.jpg 585w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Windows-asks-to-run-AdwCleaner-300x217.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 585px) 100vw, 585px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Leave broad repair switches off and start the scan<\/p>\n<p>Leave Reset Chrome Policies off. It&#8217;s meant for Chrome and clears every Chrome policy, including ones you may need.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t reset networks, firewall rules, or unrelated browser configuration. Return to Dashboard and choose Scan Now.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Start-a-AdwCleaner-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"AdwCleaner Dashboard with Scan Now highlighted\" width=\"800\" height=\"479\" class=\"wp-image-136934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Start-a-AdwCleaner-Scan.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Start-a-AdwCleaner-Scan-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Allow the scan to finish. This checks for adware and potentially unwanted software without requiring you to approve every optional system repair.<\/p>\n<p>Wait while the scan progress runs. Review the completed findings before approving cleanup.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"AdwCleaner scanning before it presents the completed detection list\" width=\"800\" height=\"479\" class=\"wp-image-136931\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Scan.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Scan-300x180.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Review the results before cleanup<\/p>\n<p>Inspect the detected items. Current releases may use Next and then Quarantine; the older example below shows a direct Quarantine control.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Quarantine-Malicious-Files.jpg\" alt=\"An AdwCleaner scan result with an older direct Quarantine control\" width=\"800\" height=\"473\" class=\"wp-image-136930\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Quarantine-Malicious-Files.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Quarantine-Malicious-Files-300x177.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>If a separate preinstalled-software list appears, review it too. Leave software you intentionally use unselected unless its removal is justified.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Save your work and approve relevant cleanup<\/p>\n<p>AdwCleaner may close applications to quarantine selected items. Save documents and browser work before choosing Continue in that prompt.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Confirm-Removal-Of-Malicious-Files.jpg\" alt=\"AdwCleaner warning that applications will close before selected items are quarantined\" width=\"800\" height=\"477\" class=\"wp-image-136929\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Confirm-Removal-Of-Malicious-Files.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/AdwCleaner-Confirm-Removal-Of-Malicious-Files-300x179.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Restart when requested, then review the cleanup log. Skip broad Basic Repair unless trusted support has identified a specific need for it.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Return to the exact search that failed<\/p>\n<p>Repeat the original address-bar, new-tab, and startup tests. Check whether the unwanted add-on or policy came back along with Yahoo.<\/p>\n<p>Save anything it couldn&#8217;t fix for the removal forum. A clean scan doesn&#8217;t reset your search engine or remove a policy, so recheck Firefox yourself.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><\/p>\n<h3>Step 4: Refresh Firefox if Yahoo still won&#8217;t leave<\/h3>\n<p><!-- mt-beginner-module reset-necessity-gate 626f43523001a07e05c04870dd91a570349f0f9ffc8389ff0bbc4e6d3ac211cd --><\/p>\n<p>If your searches work now, skip to Step 5. Refresh Firefox only when the earlier steps didn&#8217;t hold.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><br \/>\n<!-- mt-beginner-module reset-firefox 9c50f509ad591a4336481c4859c7a441f04a32f16b7681aef767517994a8f137 --><\/p>\n<h4>Refresh Firefox to wipe the add-ons and settings behind Yahoo<\/h4>\n<p>Refresh Firefox builds a fresh profile and carries over your bookmarks, passwords and history. Back up important bookmarks first, just in case.<\/p>\n<p>It also deletes search engines that were added to Firefox, so a Yahoo entry left behind by an add-on goes too.<\/p>\n<p>The screenshots below were taken on Windows. Button positions can shift a little between Firefox versions.<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open Troubleshooting Information<\/p>\n<p>Type about:support in the address bar and press Enter. Look for the Refresh Firefox button on that page.<\/p>\n<p>Check that the page heading says Troubleshooting Information. The Refresh option sits in a box on the right.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-troubleshooting-page-2026-win-annotated-v2.webp\" alt=\"Firefox Troubleshooting Information page, before choosing its recovery control\" width=\"1600\" height=\"741\" class=\"wp-image-439502\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-troubleshooting-page-2026-win-annotated-v2.webp 1600w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-troubleshooting-page-2026-win-annotated-v2-300x139.webp 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-troubleshooting-page-2026-win-annotated-v2-1024x474.webp 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-troubleshooting-page-2026-win-annotated-v2-1536x711.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Click the Refresh Firefox button in that box.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-button-2026-win-annotated.webp\" alt=\"Firefox&amp;apos;s Troubleshooting Information page and Refresh Firefox control\" width=\"1600\" height=\"741\" class=\"wp-image-439447\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-button-2026-win-annotated.webp 1600w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-button-2026-win-annotated-300x139.webp 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-button-2026-win-annotated-1024x474.webp 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-button-2026-win-annotated-1536x711.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>No Refresh button? Don&#8217;t delete your profile folder by hand to copy the effect. Ask for help in our forum instead.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Review what Refresh removes and confirm<\/p>\n<p>Read the confirmation box. Bookmarks and passwords stay, while extensions, themes and changed settings are removed or reset.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-confirm-2026-win-annotated.webp\" alt=\"Firefox asking for confirmation before removing extensions and customizations\" width=\"1600\" height=\"658\" class=\"wp-image-439448\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-confirm-2026-win-annotated.webp 1600w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-confirm-2026-win-annotated-300x123.webp 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-confirm-2026-win-annotated-1024x421.webp 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/firefox-refresh-confirm-2026-win-annotated-1536x632.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Save any open work, then click Refresh Firefox. Firefox closes, rebuilds itself and shows what it imported. Click Finish, then Let&#8217;s go!<\/p>\n<p>Set your search engine again and test it before re-adding add-ons. If Yahoo stays locked, check the advanced fixes for a policy outside Firefox.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Keep the Old Firefox Data folder for now<\/p>\n<p>Firefox saves your previous profile on the desktop as Old Firefox Data. Keep it private until you&#8217;ve recovered what you need and the fix has held.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t copy the whole folder back, or the old Yahoo setting may return with it. Once everything works, Mozilla recommends deleting the folder.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><br \/>\n<!-- mt-beginner-module verification abfd2288a64e9bac2280923cc9da28c83bbded7903527779524022f5183d830b --><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"check-result\">Step 5: Check that Yahoo is gone for good<\/h3>\n<p>Search for something from the address bar, the new tab page and anything else you normally use. Each one should reach your chosen engine.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p>Close Firefox completely, open it again, and confirm Yahoo hasn&#8217;t returned.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>If Yahoo used to come back after a Windows restart, save your work, restart the PC, and test once more.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>If you paused Firefox sync, turn it back on and test again. You&#8217;re done when searches stay put through whatever used to bring Yahoo back.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>If everything holds, you&#8217;re finished. The advanced section below is only for a Yahoo search that returns, a locked setting, or an add-on you can&#8217;t remove.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"advanced-checks\">Advanced Fixes if Yahoo Keeps Coming Back<\/h2>\n<details>\n<summary>Show fixes for locked settings and a Yahoo search that returns after restarting<\/summary>\n<p><!-- mt-beginner-module advanced-administration-gate 6682d988c48b998973c6cfd82b8b6aa7a2c86b048611d5c546e5cbaf29728169 --><\/p>\n<p>Skip this if the earlier steps worked. On a work or school computer, ask your IT team before changing policies, system files or startup items.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><\/p>\n<h3>Check if a policy is locking Yahoo in place<\/h3>\n<p>Type about:policies in the address bar. On the Active tab, note anything that mentions a search engine, an extension or a locked setting, plus any errors.<\/p>\n<p>A policy isn&#8217;t malware by itself. Mozilla says antivirus, parental control and other security software can set them, so think about what you installed recently.<\/p>\n<p>If that software is the source, Mozilla&#8217;s advice for personal PCs is to uninstall it or change its settings. Then open about:policies again.<\/p>\n<p>Policies can also sit in the Windows registry or in a policies.json file inside Firefox&#8217;s distribution folder. Never delete either one wholesale.<\/p>\n<p>On your own PC, someone comfortable with the registry can check Software\\Policies\\Mozilla\\Firefox under HKEY_CURRENT_USER and HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE.<\/p>\n<p>Export that key as a backup first. Then remove only the entry that sets Yahoo or forces the unwanted add-on, and leave the rest alone.<\/p>\n<p>For policies.json, save a copy before you edit it, then delete only the Yahoo-related lines. Either change may need administrator rights.<\/p>\n<h3>Find the Windows program that brings Yahoo back<\/h3>\n<p>Open Settings, Apps, Installed apps (Apps &amp; features on Windows 10), or Control Panel, Programs and Features. Look for anything installed around when Yahoo appeared.<\/p>\n<p>Check each publisher before uninstalling. Be most suspicious of programs that arrived bundled with a free download.<\/p>\n<p>Try opening Firefox from the Start menu instead of your usual shortcut. If only the shortcut opens Yahoo, the shortcut itself has been changed.<\/p>\n<p>Right-click that shortcut, choose Properties, and copy the Target text somewhere safe. Then delete only a Yahoo web address tacked on after firefox.exe.<\/p>\n<p>Leave any other extras in the Target, such as a profile name, in place. They can explain why the Start menu and the shortcut behave differently.<\/p>\n<p>If Yahoo returns after you sign in to Windows, check Settings, Apps, Startup, or Task Manager&#8217;s Startup apps tab (Startup on Windows 10). Then look in Task Scheduler.<\/p>\n<p>Judge each entry by the program it runs, not by its name. Export a task before disabling it, and leave Windows&#8217; own tasks and services alone.<\/p>\n<p>A file called user.js in your Firefox profile can reapply settings every time Firefox starts. Having one isn&#8217;t proof of trouble, so check what it sets.<\/p>\n<p>Copy user.js before changing it, and change only the Yahoo setting. Don&#8217;t delete all your settings files, and don&#8217;t move an unchecked copy into a new profile.<\/p>\n<p><!-- mt-beginner-module advanced-firefox fe0a8a44becea8383a0146a9e32774f1e56a7d950ad10473a9d069d21c06ea25 --><br \/>\n<!-- mt-local-illustrated-guide source=firefox-platform-guide; source\/file hashes in tutorial-library.json --><\/p>\n<h4>Use Troubleshoot Mode to test, not to remove anything<\/h4>\n<p>Click the menu button, then Help and Report, and choose Troubleshoot Mode. Save your work first, because Firefox restarts.<\/p>\n<p>You can also hold Shift while opening Firefox. Run the same search there, since Troubleshoot Mode switches off add-ons and some custom settings.<\/p>\n<p>It won&#8217;t uninstall Windows programs or lift a policy. If Yahoo disappears here, an add-on is the likely cause. If it stays, look at policies and programs.<\/p>\n<h4>Test a second profile without deleting the first<\/h4>\n<p>Type about:profiles, if your version has it, and create a test profile with a name you&#8217;ll recognize. Leave sync off and don&#8217;t import add-ons yet.<\/p>\n<p>Search from the new profile and check about:policies there too. A policy set in Windows applies to every profile, while add-ons and settings stay with one.<\/p>\n<p>If the new profile works, the problem lives in your old one. If both fail, look for a program or policy outside Firefox.<\/p>\n<p>Never click Delete Files on your original profile during this test. Keep its data until you&#8217;re sure you don&#8217;t need it.<\/p>\n<p>The about:support page shows where your profile folder is if a helper asks. Close Firefox fully before copying or changing anything inside it.<\/p>\n<p>Bring back trusted add-ons and synced data a little at a time. If Yahoo returns, the last thing you added is the one to remove.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-beginner-module --><\/p>\n<h2>Check Whether Firefox Is Really Redirecting to Yahoo<\/h2>\n<p>Press Ctrl+L, type a plain word or two, and press Enter without choosing an old suggestion. Watch the address bar while the page loads.<\/p>\n<p>If a strange site flashes up before Yahoo, something is passing your search along. That&#8217;s usually an add-on or program, which Steps 2 and 3 handle.<\/p>\n<p>Firefox search keywords can send a search to one particular engine. If only searches that start with a keyword reach Yahoo, check that shortcut in Settings, Search.<\/p>\n<p>Yahoo opening by itself at startup is a different problem. Your homepage, restored tabs or a changed shortcut can cause it, even when your search engine is fine.<\/p>\n<p>Jot down exactly when Yahoo appears before you change anything. It makes a returning add-on or program much easier to spot later.<\/p>\n<h3>If you typed a password into a strange page<\/h3>\n<p>Change that password on the real website and sign out of other sessions there. Cleaning Firefox doesn&#8217;t protect an account you already exposed.<\/p>\n<p>Handle payment or account problems separately from the browser cleanup. Your bank or the service&#8217;s own support team deals with those.<\/p>\n<p><!-- mt-nov-module attributed-startup-task 5f077d30575593827e8bbe95a899304d7c5b9f4882ea2d43ea5ba387cbdb4e8a --><\/p>\n<h4>If a scheduled task brings Yahoo back at sign-in<\/h4>\n<p>Press Windows+R, type taskschd.msc, and press Enter. Click Task Scheduler Library, then open the suspect task&#8217;s Actions and Triggers tabs.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/task-scheduler-library-2026-annotated.webp\" alt=\"Windows Task Scheduler Library, the starting point for inspecting an identified startup task\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1087\" class=\"wp-image-439607\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/task-scheduler-library-2026-annotated.webp 1600w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/task-scheduler-library-2026-annotated-300x204.webp 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/task-scheduler-library-2026-annotated-1024x696.webp 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/task-scheduler-library-2026-annotated-1536x1044.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p>Only act on a task whose program matches what your scan found or what changed Firefox. An odd name or AppData folder alone isn&#8217;t enough.<\/p>\n<p>Right-click the task, choose Export to save a backup, then choose Disable. Test Firefox before deleting anything, and leave other tasks alone.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/mt-nov-module --><\/details>\n<h2>What to Do If Nothing Here Removes Yahoo<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p>Write down the first strange website you see, which Firefox profile is affected, what about:policies shows, and your add-on list.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Save your scan reports and any backups you made. Remove your name, file paths and account details before posting them.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Ask the <a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\">MalwareTips Windows removal-help community<\/a> to review them before you delete policies or profile files.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>If Chrome and Edge switch to Yahoo too, look for a Windows program rather than a Firefox add-on. Check proxy or DNS settings only after that.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t reset your whole network or turn off a VPN your employer set up. That can create new problems and leave the real cause in place.<\/p>\n<p>Using more than one browser? Our <a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/remove-yahoo-search-redirects-complete-desktop-guide\/\">complete Yahoo redirect guide<\/a> covers Chrome, Edge, Firefox and Safari on Windows and Mac.<\/p>\n<p>Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/remove-bing-redirect-firefox-windows\/\">Bing redirects in Firefox on Windows<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/remove-yahoo-redirect-firefox-mac\/\">Yahoo in Firefox on Mac<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<h3>How do I get rid of Yahoo search engine on Firefox?<\/h3>\n<p>Click the menu button, then Settings, then Search, and pick another default. Turn Yahoo off under Additional search engines, then remove Yahoo add-ons in about:addons.<\/p>\n<p>If it returns after a restart, follow Steps 3 and 4 above.<\/p>\n<h3>Why does Firefox keep changing my default search engine to Yahoo?<\/h3>\n<p>Something keeps setting it back. The usual culprits are an add-on, a Windows program that reinstalls one, or a Firefox policy.<\/p>\n<p>Timing is your best clue. A switch at every Firefox start suggests an add-on or user.js file; one after a Windows restart suggests a program or task.<\/p>\n<h3>Is the Yahoo search engine a virus?<\/h3>\n<p>No. Yahoo Search is a legitimate search engine. The problem is the add-on or program that moved you there without a clear choice.<\/p>\n<p>Microsoft classes software that redirects your browsing or stops you changing browser settings without consent as unwanted software. That&#8217;s why the scanners in Step 3 can help.<\/p>\n<h3>Why can&#8217;t I remove Yahoo as my search engine?<\/h3>\n<p>Look at the top of Firefox Settings. If it says your browser is being managed by your organization, a policy is locking the choice.<\/p>\n<p>If an add-on&#8217;s Remove option is grayed out, another program or a policy probably installed it. Uninstall that program in Windows, or remove the add-on from Troubleshoot Mode.<\/p>\n<h3>How do I block Yahoo search permanently in Firefox?<\/h3>\n<p>Firefox&#8217;s normal settings don&#8217;t include a block list for search engines. The lasting fix is removing whatever keeps adding Yahoo, then switching Yahoo off under Additional search engines.<\/p>\n<p>After that, read every install screen carefully. When a new add-on asks to change your default search engine, say no.<\/p>\n<h3>Will Refresh Firefox get rid of Yahoo?<\/h3>\n<p>It will if an add-on or changed setting caused it. Refresh removes extensions, added search engines and changed preferences while keeping bookmarks, passwords and history.<\/p>\n<p>It can&#8217;t remove a Windows program or a policy stored outside Firefox. If Yahoo comes back after a refresh, look for that program.<\/p>\n<h2>The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n<p>To get rid of the Yahoo search engine on Firefox, set a new default in Settings, Search, then remove the add-on or program that chose Yahoo for you.<\/p>\n<p>If Yahoo comes back, run the scan in Step 3, refresh Firefox, and check about:policies for a rule that locks your search engine.<\/p>\n<p>Still stuck? Share your scan reports and about:policies results in the MalwareTips removal forum, and get help with your exact PC.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Firefox keeps switching your search engine to Yahoo on your Windows PC. You pick Google again, and a restart or a new tab brings Yahoo right back. This guide shows how to get rid of &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"How to Get Rid of the Yahoo Search Engine on Firefox in Windows 11 and 10\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/remove-yahoo-redirect-firefox-windows\/#more-439190\" aria-label=\"Read more about How to Get Rid of the Yahoo Search Engine on Firefox in Windows 11 and 10\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":51,"featured_media":440044,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2925],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-439190","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-browser-hijackers","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/439190","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/51"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=439190"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/439190\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":440054,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/439190\/revisions\/440054"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/440044"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=439190"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=439190"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=439190"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}