How To Disable Search In Windows 7

The new search feature in Windows 7 has been greatly improved, however, some users may not want to use it and are using a third party utility instead. If that is the case, you might want to completely get rid of the search feature and we’ll show you how.
Windows 7 Search
Some users might not be happy with the Search feature in Windows 7 and would rather use a third party utility like Everything instead. If so, you may want to get rid of the search feature to free up some real estate in Explorer and the Start Menu.

Disable Windows Search
If you want to disable Windows Search, click on Start and select Control Panel.
 
In Control Panel switch to Large Icons View and click on Programs and Features.

Next in the left panel click on the Turn Windows features on or off hyperlink.

Scroll down the list and uncheck the box next to Windows Search.

Click yes to the message asking if you’re sure you want to continue.

Now click Ok in the Windows Features window.

A progress message comes up while the changes take place.

Then a restart is required to complete the changes.

When you get back from the reboot you’ll no longer see the Search box in the Start Menu.

The search box in Windows Explorer will also no longer show.

If you want to turn it back on again, go back into the Turn Windows Features on or off section and re-enable Windows Search. Personally I would think most people would be happy with the search feature in Windows 7, but if you’re not, this is how to disable it. Hopefully this comes in handy for somebody.