Most people used a search engine by now, Google was by far the most popular. In Asian countries, however, Google was not as popular. Those countries often had their own search engines, due to stricter government codes and regulations.
Once search engines hit the mainstream, others tried to get on the trend as there was no barrier to entry. But once Google found success, no one could beat them becuase their search engine was the best of the time, and continued that stride as their technology evolved. Google's success and search engines in general were massive. As people had access to practically limitless information, people also made more websites to contribute to the turning point that was the internet.
Most people used a search engine by now, Google was by far the most popular. In Asian countries, however, Google was not as popular. Those countries often had their own search engines, due to stricter government codes and regulations.
Browser media .agency, SEARCH ENGINE MARKET SHARES AROUND THE WORLD, December 3rd 2010, Joe Friedlein