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How to Add and Install Privacy Browser DuckDuckGo as Chrome Extension

DuckDuckGo is a privacy-focused search engine and web browser that emphasizes protecting users’ information. You can easily add DuckDuckGo to Google Chrome as an extension to set it as your default search engine.

Benefits of Using DuckDuckGo

Here are some of the main benefits of using DuckDuckGo over other browsers:

  • Privacy – DuckDuckGo does not track your searches or collect personal information. It offers private search and browsing without storing your search history.
  • Security – DuckDuckGo forces encryption (HTTPS) on websites when possible for added security. It also blocks hidden third-party trackers that can compromise your data.
  • Clutter-free interface – The DuckDuckGo interface is clean and simple, focused on the search functionality rather than unnecessary features and ads.
  • Customization – You can customize DuckDuckGo to suit your preferences, like changing the color theme. It also has keyboard shortcuts for efficiency.

How to Install DuckDuckGo Extension on Chrome

Installing the DuckDuckGo extension on Chrome only takes a few quick steps:

  1. Open the Chrome browser and go to the DuckDuckGo website.
  2. Click on the “Add DuckDuckGo to Chrome” button at the top right. This will redirect you to the Chrome Web Store.
  3. Click on the “Add to Chrome” button. A pop-up will appear asking you to confirm adding the extension.
  4. Click “Add Extension.” DuckDuckGo is now successfully installed as a Chrome extension!

Using DuckDuckGo as Default Chrome Search Engine

Once installed, DuckDuckGo will replace Google as your default search engine when opening new tabs and windows. Here are some tips:

  • Search – Simply type keywords into the address bar or search bar to search privately with DuckDuckGo.
  • New tabs – New tabs will open the DuckDuckGo search homepage instead of Google.
  • Homepage – Set your Chrome homepage to DuckDuckGo for even more convenience.
  • Mobile – Download the DuckDuckGo mobile apps for private mobile search.

Additional DuckDuckGo Tips and Tricks

Take advantage of these DuckDuckGo power user tips:

  • Use bangs like !w and !yt to quickly search directly on sites like Wikipedia and YouTube
  • Generate strong random passwords easily
  • Get driving directions without maps sites tracking you
  • Check if a website is down with a quick search
  • View anyone’s Twitter or Reddit profile fast with searches like @username
  • Use the !bang feature to shortcut searches on over 13,000 sites

Why Choose DuckDuckGo Over Google?

DuckDuckGo is more than just another search engine. It offers a unique browsing experience focused on privacy that appeals to many users.

Google tracks your activity extensively to profile your interests and show personalized search results and ads. DuckDuckGo does none of that tracking or profiling. It shows all users the same organic search results.

Many people prefer DuckDuckGo’s unbiased results along with its smooth interface. The customizability and robust keyboard shortcuts also attract power users.

If you value your privacy when browsing, DuckDuckGo is the superior choice over Google Chrome and other mainstream browsers. It’s the only browser extension that can truly guarantee your search history won’t be collected and sold.

Conclusion

Installing DuckDuckGo as a browser extension on Chrome takes seconds. It then provides a private search experience by default, replacing Google entirely.

DuckDuckGo should satisfy the needs of any privacy-conscious web user. Take it for a test drive as your default browser, and its benefits become clear very quickly.

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