By default, the search function in the top right of your website’s utility bar (magnifying glass icon) only shows results from all of NC State’s websites at once. By connecting a Google Programmable Search Engine to your website, users can see results specifically from your website. Follow the directions below to connect a create and connect a search engine.

Create a Google Programmable Search Engine

1. Navigate to Google’s Programmable Search Engine page and sign in with a generic Google account. This may require you to work with unit’s IT staff.
2. Enter a name for your search engine (typically the name of your website) and the entire site URL. Note that each website needs its own programmable search engine created.
3. Click “Create”
4. Click “Customize”
5. From the search engine’s Overview page, in the left-hand menu click “Look and Feel”
6. Under “Layout” choose “Results only”. The change will automatically save. This layout is required.
7. Follow OIT’s instructions for disabling ads. Ads must be removed before you use this search engine on an NC State site.

Your programmable search engine is now ready to be added to your website.

Connect to WordPress

1. Navigate to the “Overview” page by logging in to Google’s Programmable Search Engine page and clicking on the search engine’s name.
2. Under the “Basic” section, click the copy button next to “Search engine ID”
3. Log into your WordPress website and navigate to NC State Settings, then NC State Theme, then Utility Bar
4. Paste your search engine ID into the Google Programmable Search Engine ID field.
5. Click “Update”