Ace on Tech -- All things Tech and Me.

This trick enables you to regain the ability to use Google’s “I’m feeling lucky”-functionality on the fly from Firefox 3’s address bar, as was natively possible in Firefox 2. To accommodate this, we’ll use OpenDNS’ network shortcuts. Once configured, you’ll be able to type stuff like “goto drupal” and be taken to drupal.org right away.

Note: As advertised, you need to be using OpenDNS for this hack to work. If you don’t know what OpenDNS is, you may want to read up on it, since it’s a great thing to have.

Step 1: Log into your OpenDNS Dashboard

https://www.opendns.com/dashboard/

Step 2: Go to “Network Shortcuts”

Network shortcuts are actually made to create short equivalents of long URLs, but can also be used to open certain applications and invoke custom-made queries [like ours].

Step 3: Enter query

Now it’s time to choose a keyword and enter it in the shortcut field. I use something like “goto”, but you’re free to use anything memorable, just keep it short and don’t use multiple words.

In the website field, paste in the following query:
http://www.google.com/search?btnI=I’;m+Feeling+Lucky&q=%s

(in case you have trouble using the link above, try this one: http://www.google.com/search?btnI=745&q=%s — thanks Edward)

The ‘%s’-part appends everything you type after “goto” to the URL, a Google search query.

Step 4: Press the button!

I suspect it’s obvious to see how this step works.

How it works

When you make a ‘goto’ query, your browser is actually sending a search query to Google. Google, in turn, processes this search, takes the first [non-sponsored] result and redirects your browser to the right site. This all happens synchronously, of course, and removes the need for correct URLs [for the most part].

Note: Some smaller websites may not turn up as the first and thus won’t be shown when desired.