The Windows Search Bar is a crucial tool for navigating your computer efficiently. It allows you to quickly find files, applications, and settings. However, it’s common for users to encounter issues where the search bar stops functioning correctly.
If you’re having trouble with the Windows search bar, follow these troubleshooting steps to get it back in working order. You can watch the video below or continue reading the article.
Below we have discussed:
Also read: How to get Arc browser on Windows?
Why is the Windows Search Bar not working?
If the Windows search bar isn’t functioning on your PC, here are some common causes:
- Temporary system glitches.
- Bing search is interfering with the Windows search bar.
- Windows search service is disabled.
How to fix the issue?
Here are a few troubleshooting methods to help you restore the Windows Search Bar:
Restart your PC
Often, the most straightforward solutions yield the best results. Restarting your computer can effectively resolve temporary issues and refresh system processes that may be causing the search bar to malfunction. If you haven’t done so yet, begin by rebooting your computer.
Disable Bing from Windows Search
In some cases, issues with the search bar might be related to Bing integration. Disabling Bing search results from Windows Search can sometimes resolve these problems. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Type regedit in the Windows search and click on the first option.
Step 2: Copy and paste Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows in the navigation bar.
Step 3: Right-click in the Windows folder, click on New, then Key. A new subfolder will be created under the Windows folder; rename it to Explorer.
Step 4: Right-click in the newly created folder, Explorer, and click on New and DWORD (32-bit) Value. A new DWORD value will be created; rename it to DisableSearchBoxSuggestions.
Step 5: Now, double-click the newly created DWORD value.
Step 6: Now, in the Value data box set its value to 1.
Check the Windows Search service
The Windows Search service may have stopped or encountered an error. Restarting this service can often resolve issues with the search bar. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Press the Windows + R key to start the Run box.
Step 2: In the run box, type services.msc and hit Enter.
Step 3: Locate Windows Search and then double-click on it. Set the Startup type as Automatic which by default, is set to Automatic (delayed). Also, make sure the service is running. If it is not, click on the Start button, then click on the Apply button and then the OK button.
Step 4: You can also right-click on Windows Search and click Restart to give the process a fresh start.
After this restart your PC and the search bar should start working.
Rebuild the index
Step 1: Open the Control Panel and click on Indexing Options.
Step 2: Now click the Advanced button followed by Rebuild.
Wait for the index to finish rebuilding, and this will resolve the Windows search bar issue..
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve most issues with the Windows Search Bar not working. If you continue to experience problems, there might be a deeper underlying issue that requires professional assistance or a full system reset. Regularly updating your system and maintaining backups can help prevent similar issues in the future.
