File Explorer Search not Working: 5 Ways to Enable it

Get the search function working again

3 min. read

Updated onFebruary 26, 2024

updated onFebruary 26, 2024

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Key notes

Users have remarked that File Explorer searches might return aNo items match your searchmessage even when there certainly are files that match the keywords entered.

Therefore, File Explorer’s search utility can effectively stop working for specific folders or more widely. For example, one user stated on theMicrosoft forum:

The search facility in Explorer has stopped working. I can see all files and access them, but when I try to find any of them using the search box it comes up with No items match your search. This facility worked 48 hrs ago, but is no longer!

Why is my search not working in File Explorer?

From what we gather, a few things will trigger this issue among Windows users. Here are the top factors:

Some common problems users have encountered are File Explorer search not working after an update, not working on a network drive, not showing all results, and not finding files.

How can I fix the File Explorer search if it’s not working?

Before going into any of these fixes, we recommend a reboot. This is because a restart can force some difficult processes to end, which may rectify simple computer problems.

Also, you may use a third-party tool in place of File Explorer. If you need to find another efficient file explorer solution, it’s advised to choose from thebest file finder software for your PC.

1. Open the Search and Indexing Troubleshooter

2. Restart File Explorer

3. Rebuild the search indexing

4. Turn on Index Properties and File Contents option

Some users have confirmed they’ve fixed File Explorer searches by selecting the Index Properties and File Contents option.

5. Enable Windows Search Service

Those resolutions will often fix FileExplorer’s search utility. Remember, however, that users can utilize numerous third-party search tools for Windows as an alternative to File Explorer.

Now that the search feature is working again, why not check our guide to learn how tosearch special characters in Windows Explorer.

If you have questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments below.

File Explorer Search not Working: 5 Ways to Enable it#

How can I fix the File Explorer search if it’s not working?#

1. Open the Search and Indexing Troubleshooter#

2. Restart File Explorer#

3. Rebuild the search indexing#

4. Turn on Index Properties and File Contents option#

5. Enable Windows Search Service#