5 Ways to Fix File Explorer Search Not Working on Windows 11

Sodiq has written thousands of tutorials, guides, and explainers over the past 3 years to help people solve problems relating to Android, iOS, and Windows devices. He also enjoys reviewing consumer tech products (smartphones, smart home devices, etc.) and previously worked with GearBest in that capacity.

Paras is a staff writer and a published Author, creating engaging SEO-friendly articles that resonate well with readers. Additionally, he diligently updates existing explainers to keep you in the loop with the latest tips and features, helping you make the most of your devices. Over the past 3 years, Paras has been featured on GadgetsToUse, before finally helping the readers at Guiding Tech Media.

Basic Fixes

Fix 1: Run the Windows Search Troubleshooter

Windows 11 provides an in-built Search and Indexing troubleshooter to fix search issues in the File Explorer app. Here’s how to launch it:

Step 1:Press theWindows + Rshortcut to open the Run dialog, paste the following, and pressEnterto open the Search and Indexing troubleshooter.

Step 2:ClickNextand follow theon-screen instructionsto troubleshoot the File Explorer search issue.

Fix 2: Reconfigure Indexing Options

If you’re confident that a particular file exists on your PC but isn’t appearing in the File Explorer search results, reconfiguring the File Explorer’s Indexing Options should fix it.

Step 1:Launch the Run dialog using theWindows + Rshortcut, paste the following, and hitEnter.

Step 2:ClickAdvanced, and approve the UAC prompt.

Step 3:Open theFile Typestab, selectIndex Propertiesand File Contents, and clickOK. This will rebuild the Windows Search Index, fixing the search issue.

Fix 3: Uninstall the Recent Windows Update

A buggy Windows Update may cripple the File Explorer app, creating the search issue. Uninstall the recent Windows 11 update and retry the File Explorer search.

Step 1:Open Windows Settings using theWindows + I shortcut, selectWindows Updatefrom the left sidebar, and clickUpdate history.

Step 2:Scroll down and clickUninstall updates.

Step 3:Locate the recent update using the Installed on label and clickUninstallto revert it.

Fix 4: Clear File Explorer History

Another nifty way to fix the File Explorer search not working on Windows 11 is toclear its search history. This will reduce the system load and enhance the File Explorer’s performance, effectively fixing its search issue.

Step 1:Press theWindows key, searchFile Explorer Options, and click to open it.

Step 2:ClickClearnext to Clear File Explorer history to remove it.

Fix 5: Repair Corrupt System Files

Lastly, the File Explorer app may malfunction on Windows if its system files are corrupt. Scan and repair them using theSystem File Checker (SFC)and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) commands to restore normalcy.

Step 1:SearchCommand Promptin the Windows Search Menu and clickRun as administrator.

Step 2:TypeSFC /scannowin the console and pressEnter.

Step 3:Finally, execute the following DISM commands sequentially to repair the system image and reboot your PC.

Was this helpful?

Last updated on 15 July, 2024

Leave a ReplyCancel reply

Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked*

Name*

Email*

Comment*

Δ

The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.

More in Windows

How to Draw a (Red) Box Around Text in the Snipping Tool on Windows PC

How to Create and Use a Recovery Drive on Windows 11

JOIN THE NEWSLETTER

Get Guiding Tech articles delivered to your inbox.

© 2024 Guiding Tech Media. All Rights Reserved.