How to separate url from smart search field?

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Level 2

153 points

How to separate url from smart search field?

I have some devices with web management interfaces. To access those, I need to use an address like http://198.162.x.x or http://device_name. However, when I enter those (exactly as "http://...") into the "smart search field", Safari frequently interprets the entry as a search instead and takes me off to some wild web page.

Is there a way to turn off the "search" function of the smart search field, or, alternatively, to ensure Safari will recognize my URL entry as such and not attempt to search for it?

MacBook Air (2018 – 2020)

Posted on Aug 28, 2023 12:47 PM

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Answer 1

hc1111

Community Specialist

Aug 29, 2023 10:29 AM in response to lisfolks

Hey there lisfolks,

If you have Smart Search enabled and no longer want to use this feature, you can change the settings for it by opening the Safari menu > Settings > Search, then adjust the settings how you prefer there.

For more details on using Smart Search: Search the internet using Safari on Mac - Apple Support

Take care!

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Answer 2

lisfolks Author

Level 2

153 points

Aug 29, 2023 1:56 PM in response to hc1111

Thanks for the link, @hc1111. I had seen that article in my own searches. I hadn't tried, however, un-checking the four options there for Smart Search.

Now, I've unchecked all of the options; however, it still goes to an Internet site - not the one I entered. LOL, it's taking me to this site: https://www.cyberfinder.com/ - which isn't even close to what I entered.

I don't see anything else to "disable" Smart Search or separate it from URL entry. Ugh... I might have to switch to a competing browser that has the URL and search fields separated. Sigh... Safari used to have separate fields for search and URL entry long ago, but it doesn't look like it can be done now...

I'll post Safari feedback as well...

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How to separate url from smart search field?

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