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Customization

Replace the Windows Start Search With PowerToys Run

One hotkey for apps, files, window switching and quick maths, without the web results and suggestions the Start search mixes in.

by@guidox updated:10/30/26 time:10 min level:Beginner tested on:Windows 11 24H2, PowerToys 0.86 works on:Windows 10, Windows 11, PowerToys 0.80+ tools:PowerToys
TL;DR

Install **PowerToys**, open **PowerToys Run** with **Alt+Space**, turn the **Web Search** plugin off and index your real folders. Results appear in milliseconds and never open a browser.

Before you start

Requirements

  • Windows 10 or Windows 11
  • PowerToys from the Microsoft Store or https://github.com/microsoft/PowerToys/releases
  • A folder layout you are willing to add to the Windows index
Step by step

Instructions

01

Install and open it once

Install PowerToys, let it start with Windows and press **Alt+Space**. A search bar appears; typing an app name should already return it.

02

Fix the hotkey collision

If nothing happens, another app owns Alt+Space. Open the PowerToys settings, go to **PowerToys Run** and set a shortcut that nothing else uses.

Ctrl+Alt+Space
tipSome IDEs and the Steam overlay claim Alt+Space. A changed shortcut is faster than fighting the other app.
03

Turn off web search

In the PowerToys Run settings open **Plugins**, select **Web Search** and disable it. In Windows, open **Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows** and disable search highlights and cloud content search.

⚠ warningWith the web plugin on, a typo sends your query to a search engine instead of showing local results.
04

Index the folders you actually use

In **Searching Windows** set **Find my files** to Enhanced and add your project and download folders. PowerToys Run then returns files as well as apps.

tipLarge network shares slow the index down - add them only when you need them.
05

Learn the two useful prefixes

Start a query with a prefix to switch modes instantly. The shell prefix runs commands, the equals prefix does maths without opening a calculator.

> ipconfig
= 144/3
06

Decide about the taskbar search box

If PowerToys Run replaces it for you, right-click the taskbar, open **Taskbar settings** and hide the search box. The Windows key still opens Start - that behaviour cannot be replaced.

Troubleshooting

Common issues

The hotkey does nothing

A collision or PowerToys is not running. Check the tray icon, set a different shortcut and restart PowerToys.

Installed apps are missing from results

PowerToys Run caches the app list at start. Restart PowerToys, then confirm the Program plugin is enabled.

The window opens on the wrong monitor

Set the preferred monitor in the PowerToys Run settings to the one the cursor is on.

FAQ

Frequently asked

Can I remove the Start search completely?

You can hide the box, but Win still opens Start. PowerToys Run is the practical replacement.

Does it work without internet?

Yes, everything local works offline. Only the web plugin needs a connection.

How to undo this

Disable PowerToys Run in the PowerToys settings or uninstall PowerToys. Windows search itself was not modified and returns to normal.

Changelog · 1 entry
  1. 2026-10-30
    First version
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