Fixing ‘Search Not Working’ on Windows 10: A Comprehensive Guide

Is the search function on your Windows 10 computer not working? You’re not alone. This is a common issue, but thankfully, there are several solutions you can try. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to troubleshooting and resolving search problems in Windows 10.

Why is Windows 10 Search Not Working?

Several factors can cause the search function to fail. These include:

  • Indexing Issues: The search index might be corrupted or outdated.
  • Windows Search Service Problems: The service responsible for indexing and search might be stopped or malfunctioning.
  • Corrupted System Files: System file corruption can interfere with various Windows functions, including search.
  • Third-Party Software Conflicts: Some installed programs can interfere with the Windows Search functionality.
  • Permissions Issues: Incorrect permissions for the search index folder can prevent proper operation.

Troubleshooting Steps

Here’s a detailed guide to fixing the search function, progressing from simple to more advanced solutions:

1. Restart Your Computer

This is the simplest and often most effective solution. A restart can resolve temporary glitches and refresh system processes.

2. Restart the Windows Search Service

The Windows Search service is responsible for indexing files and enabling the search function. Restarting it can often fix problems.

  • Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type services.msc and press Enter.
  • In the Services window, scroll down and find Windows Search.
  • Right-click on Windows Search and select Restart. If the option is greyed out, select Properties.
  • In the Properties window, ensure the Startup type is set to Automatic.
  • Click Apply and then OK.

3. Run the Search and Indexing Troubleshooter

Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter specifically designed to fix search and indexing problems.

  • Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  • Click on Update & Security.
  • Select Troubleshoot from the left-hand menu.
  • Click on Additional troubleshooters.
  • Find Search and Indexing and click on it.
  • Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Rebuild the Search Index

A corrupted search index can prevent the search function from working correctly. Rebuilding the index forces Windows to re-catalog all your files.

  • Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type control panel and press Enter.
  • In the Control Panel, type indexing options in the search box.
  • Click on Indexing Options.
  • In the Indexing Options window, click on the Advanced button.
  • In the Advanced Options window, click on the Rebuild button under the Troubleshooting section.
  • A warning message will appear. Click OK to proceed.
  • The indexing process can take several hours, depending on the size of your hard drive and the number of files.

5. Check Windows Search Service Permissions

Incorrect permissions for the Windows.edb file can cause search issues.

  • Open File Explorer.
  • Navigate to C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Search\Data\Applications\Windows.
  • Right-click on the Windows.edb file and select Properties.
  • Go to the Security tab.
  • Click Edit. Make sure your user account and the SYSTEM account have Full control permissions. If not, click Add, type your username, click Check Names, click OK, then grant Full control. Do the same for the SYSTEM account.
  • Click Apply and then OK.

6. Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

The System File Checker (SFC) scan can identify and repair corrupted system files.

  • Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
  • Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  • In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  • The scan may take some time. Do not close the Command Prompt window until the scan is complete.
  • Restart your computer after the scan is finished.

7. Check for Windows Updates

Make sure your Windows 10 is up to date. Updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve search issues.

  • Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  • Click on Update & Security.
  • Click on Check for updates.
  • Install any available updates.

8. Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software (Temporarily)

In rare cases, third-party antivirus software can interfere with the Windows Search function. Temporarily disable your antivirus software to see if it resolves the problem. If it does, you may need to adjust your antivirus settings or consider using a different antivirus program.

Note: Be sure to re-enable your antivirus software as soon as you’ve finished testing.

9. Create a New User Account

In some cases, the problem might be related to a corrupted user profile. Creating a new user account can help determine if this is the case.

  • Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
  • Click on Accounts.
  • Select Family & other users from the left-hand menu.
  • Click on Add someone else to this PC.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new user account.
  • Sign in to the new user account and check if the search function is working.

Conclusion

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve most ‘search not working’ issues in Windows 10. Remember to work through the solutions systematically, starting with the simplest ones first. If the problem persists, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft support or a qualified computer technician.