Windows 11 Search bar not working after Update (5 Solutions)

The search bar in Windows 11 is a powerful tool that allows users to quickly find files, applications, settings, and web results. However, sometimes you may experience issues search bar not working as expected, it can be frustrating. Several users report the Windows 11 search bar not working after a recent Windows update. This article explores common reasons why Windows search not working and provides effective solutions to get your search functionality back on track on Windows 11.

Why search bar not working in Windows 11?

There are several possible reasons why Search bar may not work in Windows 11. A corrupted or outdated search index, Windows Explorer Glitches, Third-Party Antivirus Interference, or corrupted system files are common.

• The search bar relies on an index to quickly locate files. If the index is corrupted or incomplete, it can lead to search problems.
• Glitches in the Windows Explorer process can interfere with various system components, including the search bar.
• Issues with the Windows Search service or related services can impact the functionality of the search bar.
• Some third-party antivirus programs may interfere with the search bar’s operations, causing disruptions.

Depending on the cause of your problem, there are different solutions that you can try to fix the search bar not working in Windows 11.

Restart your computer

Sometimes, a simple reboot can solve many problems, including the Windows 11 search bar not working issue. Restarting your computer clears any temporary files or cache that may be causing errors or conflicts with the search bar. It can also refresh your system and load any pending updates or changes that may improve the performance of the search bar.

To restart your computer, click on the Start menu, then click on the Power icon, and choose Restart. Wait for your computer to boot up again, and check if the search bar is working.

In addition, restarting the Windows Explorer process can resolve various system-related glitches. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, locate “Windows Explorer” in the list, right-click on it, and choose “Restart.” This action refreshes the graphical interface, potentially resolving issues affecting the search bar.

Run Search and Indexing Troubleshooter

Windows 11 comes with built-in troubleshooters to address common problems. Run the Search and Indexing troubleshooter can scan your system for any issues that may affect the functionality of the search bar, such as corrupted files, incorrect settings, or missing components. It can also apply any necessary repairs or adjustments to resolve these issues.

• Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
• Nevigate System, then Troubleshoot and Click on Other troubleshooters.
• Find Search and indexing in the list, and click on Run.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooter.

This tool scans for issues related to search functionality and attempts to fix them automatically.

• Restart your computer and check if the search bar is working.

Rebuild The search index

The search bar relies on the search index to quickly locate files. The search index is a database that stores information about your files and folders and helps Windows Search find them faster. If the Search index is corrupted or incomplete, it can cause search problems.

• Press the Windows key + S, type Indexing Options and click on it.
• Click on Advanced, then Rebuild under the Troubleshooting section.
• Click on OK to confirm and wait for the index to be rebuilt.

This may take some time depending on the size of your files and folders. During this process, you may experience some slowdowns or lags in your system performance. However, this is normal and temporary, and it should not affect your work.

Restart Windows Search Services

The Windows Search service is responsible for managing the search functionality in Windows 11. If for some reason the Windows Update service is stuck or encountering issues, it can affect the overall system functionality, including the search bar. Restarting this service can clear any temporary glitches or issues that may be affecting the search bar

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type “services.msc,” and press Enter.
• Look for “Windows Search” in the list, right-click on it select “Restart” from the context menu.
• Ensure it’s set to “Automatic” and is running, Or double-click on it to open properties to make changes.

Restart the Windows Search Bar Process

In addition, Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. Go into the Details tab, right-click SearchHost.exe Select End task, and confirm with End process. Now try opening the search window again, this will restart SearchHost.exe and probably fix the problem for you.

Check for Windows Updates

Windows updates often include bug fixes, improvements, and compatibility updates that can directly address problems related to search functionality. Install latest Windows updates ensures that the search function, and other components, operate optimally by resolving compatibility issues and addressing potential glitches that might affect the search bar’s functionality.

• Windows key + X and select settings
• Go to Windows Update then hit Check for updates,
• If new updates are available, allow them to download and install
• Once done restart your computer to apply the changes.

In addition, run the system file checker utility help scan and repair corrupt system files. This is a valuable step in maintaining the health of your Windows system and can be particularly effective in addressing issues with the search bar caused by corrupted system files.

Also Temporarily disabling third-party antivirus programs helps identify whether they are causing interference with the search bar. If disabling the antivirus resolves the issue, it suggests that the antivirus software may need updating or reinstalling to work seamlessly with the Windows 11 search functionality.

Sometimes, Creating a new user profile is beneficial as it helps determine whether the search bar issues are specific to a user profile. If the search bar functions correctly in the new profile, it indicates that the problem may be associated with the original user profile, and transferring files and settings to the new account can provide a fresh start.

Reset your Windows 11 installation

If none of the above methods work for you, you may have to reset Windows 11 installation. This will reinstall Windows 11 and keep your personal files and settings, but remove any apps and drivers that you installed. This can fix any system issues that may be causing the search bar problem.

Before you reset your Windows 11 installation, you should back up your important data to an external drive or a cloud service. You should also make a list of the apps and drivers that you need to reinstall after the reset.

• • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to System, then click on Recovery.

• Click on Reset PC under the Recovery options section.

• Choose Keep My Files or Remove Everything depending on your preference.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.
• Restart your computer and check if the search bar is working.