Windows search does not work anymore. Can’t search anything

Troubleshooting Windows Search Functionality: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The Windows Search feature is an essential tool that allows users to quickly locate files, applications, and settings on their PC. However, users occasionally encounter issues where the search function becomes unresponsive or ceases to work altogether. If you’re experiencing similar problems—such as the Windows key not opening the search menu or typing into the search box yielding no results—this guide provides effective troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.

Common Symptoms

• Pressing the Windows key no longer opens the search menu promptly; multiple presses are required.
• Typing into the search bar does not produce any results.
• The search widget in the taskbar is unresponsive.
• Attempts to run the built-in troubleshooting tools do not resolve the problem.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Restart Your Computer
   Often, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches affecting Windows Search. Save your work and reboot your PC to see if the issue persists.

2. Add the Search Box to the Taskbar
   If the search menu isn’t functioning, ensure the search box or icon is correctly enabled on the taskbar:

3. Right-click on the taskbar.
4. Hover over “Search” and select “Show search box” or “Show search icon” depending on your preference.

5. Attempt to access the search functionalities again.

6. Run Windows Search Troubleshooter
   Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to identify and fix common problems with search:

7. Open Settings (Windows + I).
8. Navigate to “Update & Security” > “Troubleshoot” > “Additional troubleshooters.”
9. Find and run the “Search and Indexing” troubleshooter.

10. Follow the prompts and apply any recommended fixes. Note that running this tool with administrator privileges can sometimes enhance its effectiveness.

11. Restart Windows Search Service
    Sometimes, the Windows Search service may need to be restarted:

12. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
13. Switch to the “Services” tab.
14. Locate “Windows Search.”
15. Right-click and select “Restart.”
    Alternatively, you can restart the service via Command Prompt:
16. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
17. Type net stop "Windows Search" and press Enter.

18. Then, type net start "Windows Search" and press Enter.

19. Restart Windows Explorer
    Issues with Windows Explorer can also impact search functionality:

20. Open Task Manager.
21. Find “Windows Explorer” in the list.
22. Right-click and select “Restart.”