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How can I add a new search engine to Firefox?

I think we're kindred spirits, Dave. I spend way too much of my time on the Internet Movie DB and would like to cut out a step: is there any way in Firefox that I can have the little search box on the address bar go directly to IMDB?


Dave's Answer:

Yes, sounds like we're wanna-be pals. I am the only person I know who has a "Web clip" bookmark on my iPhone for IMDB (and, to my surprise, it's not some slick custom iPhone icon) because I find myself going there just about every single day.

I've also been migrating from Apple's Safari browser to Firefox because Safari is becoming increasingly unstable for me and so I too have been eyeballing that search area on the top right corner of Firefox and wondering what you can do with it.

Fortunately, all is revealed by simply clicking on the tiny triangle icon and revealing the pop-up menu:

Firefox: Custom Search Engine: Pop-up menu

Choose Manage Search Engines... and you'll pop right to the proper preference window:

Firefox: Search Engines Installed

Choose the subtle little Get more search engines link and you'll promptly be directed to the Firefox add-ons: Search Engines page on the Firefox site. It has quite a list of different site search engines that are compatible with Firefox and have been scripted, including A9, BBC News, Marketwatch, ESPN, Expedia, Technorati and the Weather Channel.

More importantly, yes, it has IMDB:

Firefox: Search Engines

Click on the name of the search engine (in this case "IMDB") and instantly a window will pop up:

Firefox: Add Search Engine?

Choose "Add" and, if you want, have it simultaneously change the default search engine to the new entry at the same time by checking "Start using it right away."

Now you have movie nerd nirvana, IMDB search accessible right on your address bar. Life is good.


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Categorized: Computer and Internet Basics   (Article 7898, Written by )
Tagged: firefox, imdb, search engines, search widgets
Previous: What's the difference between Flash and Shockwave?
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Reader Comments To Date: 4

Alex said, on April 26, 2008 5:46 PM:

I am a windows user and have recently switched from IE to Safari. Could you explain how to add search engines to your search bar in Safari?

Lyle Cohen said, on October 1, 2008 10:28 AM:

HOw do you add a search engine that is not on the firefox add-on list. For example, Cuil.

Anthony Lenzo said, on December 25, 2008 10:47 PM:

Hi

You can also add "Mycroft Project" which is a search engine that searches for search engines

renju said, on August 17, 2012 2:36 PM:

thanks dude

Starbucks coffee cup I do have a lot to say, and questions of my own for that matter, but first I'd like to say thank you, Dave, for all your helpful information by buying you a cup of coffee!

I do have a comment, now that you mention it!











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