What is the first step to take when addressing unfamiliar search engine behavior in a user's web browser?

When addressing unfamiliar search engine behavior in a user's web browser, the first step should be to reset the browser settings. This action effectively restores the browser to its default state, which can help eliminate any changes that may have occurred due to unwanted extensions, toolbars, or changes in settings inadvertently made by the user or through malicious software.

Resetting the browser can also remove any unwanted search engines that have substituted the default one, thereby restoring the expected search behaviors. This is particularly useful when the issue is related to changes in the homepage or default search engine that seem out of place. It allows for a thorough cleanup without losing bookmarks or saved passwords, as long as the user opts for a partial reset.

By contrast, while clearing temporary files can assist in improving browser performance and may sometimes help with peculiar behaviors, it does not directly address the root cause if the behavior stems from settings or extensions. Installing additional security software may be a prudent step if malware is suspected, but it doesn’t immediately rectify issues caused by alterations to browser settings. Switching to a different web browser might mitigate the issue temporarily, but it is more effective to resolve the underlying problem in the current browser before making a change. Thus, resetting the browser settings is the most logical first response to