Removing unwanted search engine redirects, such as theonlinesearch.com, typically involves several steps. Here’s a general guide that you can follow:

1. Remove Suspicious Browser Extensions:

  • Open your browser’s settings.
  • Navigate to the extensions or add-ons section.
  • Disable or remove any suspicious or unfamiliar extensions, especially those related to “theonlinesearch.com.”

2. Reset Browser Settings:

  • Resetting your browser settings can help remove unwanted changes. This action varies by browser.
    • For Chrome:
      1. Open Chrome and go to Settings.
      2. Scroll down and click on “Advanced.”
      3. Under “Reset and clean up,” click “Restore settings to their original defaults.”
    • For Firefox:
      1. Open Firefox and go to the Help menu.
      2. Select “Troubleshooting Information.”
      3. Click “Refresh Firefox.”

3. Check and Reset the Homepage:

  • Ensure that your homepage is set to a trusted and desired website.
    • In browser settings, look for options related to the homepage and set it to your preferred site.

4. Check Default Search Engine:

  • Make sure that the default search engine is set to a reputable one.
    • In browser settings, look for the search engine settings and set it to a trusted search engine.

5. Clear Browser Cache and Cookies:

  • Cached data and cookies might be contributing to the issue. Clear them in your browser settings.
    • Go to settings and find the option to clear browsing data.

6. Run Antivirus and Anti-malware Scans:

  • Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to scan your computer for malicious software.
    • Ensure your antivirus definitions are up to date and perform a full system scan.

7. Check and Reset DNS Settings:

  • Malicious programs sometimes alter DNS settings. Resetting them can help.
    • Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type: ipconfig /flushdns

8. Check and Uninstall Suspicious Programs:

  • Look through your installed programs for anything suspicious or unfamiliar.
    • Open the Control Panel (or Settings in Windows 10) and go to “Programs” or “Apps” to uninstall unwanted software.

9. Review Scheduled Tasks:

  • Malware might have scheduled tasks. Check and remove any suspicious tasks.
    • Open the Task Scheduler (you can search for it in the Start menu) and review the tasks.

10. Change Passwords:

  • If your accounts have been compromised, change your passwords immediately.

11. Use a Cleanup Tool:

  • Consider using a reputable cleanup tool that can identify and remove adware and potentially unwanted programs.

12. Check Browser Shortcuts:

  • Sometimes, browser shortcuts are altered. Right-click on your browser shortcut, go to “Properties,” and check the target field for any unwanted additions.

13. Hosts File Check:

  • Malicious software can alter the hosts file. Ensure it doesn’t contain any suspicious entries.
    • The hosts file is located at C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts (on Windows). Open it with a text editor.

14. Consult Online Forums and Communities:

  • If the issue persists, search online forums for advice specific to your browser and theonlinesearch.com. Other users may have encountered and solved similar problems.

15. Consider Professional Help:

  • If the issue remains unresolved, consider seeking help from professional IT support or a cybersecurity expert.

Remember to perform these steps carefully and consider seeking guidance from reputable sources. If you’re unsure about any action, it’s better to consult with a professional to avoid inadvertently causing more issues.