Windows is powered by hundreds of small processes running in the background. It’s not uncommon for these processes to suddenly spike in usage, but sustained high use for more extended periods can quickly become a problem.
In this article, we’re looking at the Windows Search Filter Host process and how to fix its high CPU usage.Â
What is Microsoft Windows Search Filter Host?
The Search Filter Host is a software component of Windows Search Indexer — a service designed to search and index files on Windows machines. It allows users to search for files and locate them quickly.Â
While the process itself is legitimate and only uses system resources when you’re searching for files, some users have complained of the process using too many system resources.
Also read: Windows update stuck at 0: 6 Fixes
How to fix high CPU usage?
If the process uses too much CPU for you, here are a few solutions you can try out.
Disable the Windows Search Service
Disabling the search service will render the process useless, meaning you can close it without problems. While this should help you save system resources, you won’t be able to search for files.Â
Step 1: Press Windows key + R to open the Run prompt. Type services.msc and hit enter.
Step 2: Find the process and double-click it to open properties. Click on Stop to stop the process.
Step 3: Under Startup type, change the setting to Disabled.
Now restart your PC, and your CPU should be freed up comparatively.Â
Use the Indexer troubleshooter
Windows has a bunch of really useful troubleshooters that can help diagnose and fix several issues.Â
Step 1: Press Windows Key + I to open Windows settings. Click on Update & Security.
Step 2: Head over to the Troubleshoot tab and click on Additional troubleshooters.
Step 3: Scroll down and run the Search and Indexing troubleshooter.
Follow along with the troubleshooter, and your issue should be resolved.Â
Rebuild the Windows Search Index
Rebuilding the Windows Search Index can also help you get around this issue.
Step 1: Open the Control Panel and click on Indexing Options.
Step 2: Click Modify.
Step 3: Uncheck all checkboxes except for the OS drive and click OK.
Step 4: Now click the Advanced button followed by Rebuild.
Wait for the index to finish rebuilding, and you’ll be good to go.
