SafeSearch is a feature built into Google Search and other platforms that helps filter out explicit content—such as pornography, graphic violence, and other mature material—from your search results. It’s a useful tool for parents, schools, and workplaces where maintaining a safe browsing environment is important. This guide explains how SafeSearch works, how to adjust the settings, and what browser requirements you’ll need to consider.

What is SafeSearch?

SafeSearch is a content-filtering setting designed to limit adult material in search results. When turned on, it hides most explicit text, images, and videos. When off, you’ll see unfiltered results. It is not 100% perfect, but it significantly reduces the likelihood of encountering unwanted adult content.

How to Adjust SafeSearch Settings

1. On Google Search (Web Browser)

1. Open your browser and go to Google Search.

2. Click the Settings button (bottom-right of the homepage or top-right of results page).

3. Select Search settings.

4. Under SafeSearch filters, check or uncheck the box for Turn on SafeSearch.

5. Scroll down and click Save.

2. On Mobile Browser

1. Open your mobile browser and go to Google Search.

2. Tap the menu (☰) in the top-left corner.

3. Select Search settings.

4. Toggle SafeSearch filters on or off.

5. Scroll down and tap Save.

3. On Google App (iOS or Android)

1. Open the Google app.

2. Tap your profile picture > Settings > SafeSearch.

3. Toggle SafeSearch on or off.

4. On Network or Device Level

Parents and schools can lock SafeSearch across a network or on specific devices by:

• Using a Family Link account for children.

• Adjusting DNS settings (e.g., forcing Google SafeSearch via DNS).

• Configuring SafeSearch at the router level to apply to all connected devices.

Browser Requirements for Adjusting SafeSearch

SafeSearch works on most modern browsers, but the ability to access and save your settings may depend on your browser version and whether cookies are enabled.

• Google Chrome – Fully supports SafeSearch. For best performance, update to the latest version. If you’re signed into a Google Account, your setting is synced across devices.

• Mozilla Firefox – Works with SafeSearch through Google Search. You’ll need to allow cookies to ensure your preferences are saved.

• Microsoft Edge – SafeSearch is supported when searching via Google. Edge also has its own family safety settings that can work alongside Google SafeSearch.

• Safari (Mac/iOS) – SafeSearch functions normally in Safari, but like other browsers, cookies must be enabled to save preferences. On iOS devices, SafeSearch settings can also be controlled through Screen Time parental controls.

• Other Browsers (Opera, Brave, etc.) – SafeSearch can be adjusted the same way through Google’s search settings. Ensure that you don’t have aggressive privacy settings blocking cookies, or your SafeSearch preferences may not save.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Signed-in contra. Guest Mode: If you’re signed in to your Google Account, SafeSearch will apply across devices. If you browse in guest mode or without cookies, you’ll need to reset it each time.

• Network-level Overrides: Schools and organizations may lock SafeSearch, preventing users from turning it off.

• SafeSearch is not foolproof: It filters most adult content but cannot guarantee 100% removal.

Conclusion

SafeSearch is a simple but powerful way to limit adult content in search results. Whether you’re adjusting it for personal use, setting up controls for children, or configuring it for a workplace or school network, the process only takes a few steps. Ensuring you’re on an up-to-date browser with cookies enabled will help your SafeSearch preferences stay in place.