Restrict search providers to a specific list of providers

This policy setting allows you to restrict the search providers that will appear in the search box in Internet Explorer to a list defined in the list of search provider policy keys (found under [HKCU or HKLM\Software\policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\SearchScopes]). Normally, search providers can be added from third-party toolbars or in Setup, but can also be added by the user from a search provider's Web site.

If you enable this policy setting, the user will not be able to configure the list of search providers on their computer, and any default providers installed will not appear (including providers installed from other applications). The only providers that will appear will be those in the list of search provider policy keys (found under [HKCU or HKLM\Software\policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\SearchScopes]). Note: This list can be created using a custom administrative template file. For information on creating this custom administrative template file, see the Internet Explorer documentation on search providers.

If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, users will be able to configure their list of search providers

Supported on: At least Internet Explorer 7.0

Registry HiveHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
Registry PathSoftware\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Infodelivery\Restrictions
Value NameUsePolicySearchProvidersOnly
Value TypeREG_DWORD
Enabled Value1
Disabled Value0

inetres.admx

Administrative Templates (Computers)

Administrative Templates (Users)