Windows 10 and Windows 11 Search Not Working: How to Fix It

The search feature in Windows 10 and Windows 11 is essential for quickly accessing files, apps, and settings. However, sometimes users experience issues where the search function stops working entirely. In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind this issue and how to fix it.

Possible Causes for Search Malfunction

Several factors can lead to search issues in Windows:

  • Windows Search Service Failure — The system may not be running the search service correctly.
  • Problems with File Indexing — If the indexing is corrupted, the search may fail to locate files or applications.
  • System Errors or Issues After Updates — Occasionally, Windows updates can disrupt the search function.
  • Incorrect Region and Language Settings — Sometimes, these settings can interfere with search functionality.

How to Fix Search Not Working in Windows 10 and Windows 11

1. Restart Your Device

Begin with the simplest solution — restarting your system. This can help resolve temporary glitches that interfere with the search function.

2. Check the Windows Search Service

Make sure the search service is running. To do this:

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. Find Windows Search in the list and double-click on it.
  3. Ensure the service is running. If not, click Start and set the startup type to "Automatic."

3. Restart File Explorer

Restarting File Explorer can also help resolve search issues. Here’s how:

  1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
  2. Find Windows Explorer, select it, and click Restart.

4. Rebuild Search Indexing

Indexing is crucial for search functionality, and corrupted indexing can cause search issues. To rebuild indexing:

  1. Open Control Panel and select Indexing Options.
  2. Click on Advanced and then choose Rebuild.
  3. Confirm and wait for the rebuilding process to complete.

5. Check Region and Language Settings

Incorrect region settings can sometimes lead to search issues. To check and adjust them:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I) and go to Time & Language.
  2. Select Region and ensure the correct region is chosen.

6. Use Windows Troubleshooter

Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 offer built-in troubleshooting tools:

  1. Open Settings, go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  2. Select Additional troubleshooters, find Search and Indexing, and run the troubleshooter.

7. Re-register the Search System via PowerShell

If none of the above methods work, try re-registering the search component. To do this:

  1. Launch PowerShell as an administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppXPackage -Name Microsoft.Windows.Search | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

After running the command, restart your computer.