If you find that the Windows search bar isn’t working to your satisfaction, it may be caused by the latest Windows update, interference from the Bing search engine and a malfunctioning Windows search service, or a damaged system file. These are the main reasons for the Windows search bar not working issue
After installing an unsuitable Windows update, the search is inaccessible to you and therefore unused. While temporary solutions exist, such as clicking the search box at the top of the Windows search page and clearing its cache manually, for longer-term solutions, please follow this guide.
Why Is Windows Search Bar Not Working
Here are a few reasons to consider that the Windows search bar not working:
Due to Windows 11, flaws have been identified. It is expected that Windows updates in the near future will fix search issues that are caused by a bug.
The problem may be psychological, as some settings could falsely suggest an error. Because Ctfmon.exe is the Ctfmon.exe application responsible for controlling the Office language bar and input, its absence is the cause of the issue.
Text Service Framework is a system-wide service that handles text input, and the MaCtfMonitor monitors it. If the search field is currently empty, the scheduled task MsCtfMonitor may have become inaccessible or corrupt.
According to Microsoft, Cortana is a device that lets us save time and focus on what matters. However, if it fails, it could be impossible to find something. The software you have installed could fail or be damaged on occasion.
Also read: Snipping Tool Not Working in Windows 10 & 11: Quick Solutions
How to Fix Windows Search Bar Not Working
This section explains how to fix the Windows search bar not working problem. If none of these solutions doesn’t works for you, consider a different option since they all work for affected people in other situations.
Restart your PC
The simplest solution to solve the issue is to restart your PC. This may sound like a simple task it’s not. An easy reboot could be the solution you’ve been searching for. If you’ve never tried it before, go to the start button. Click the power icon, then select to restart.
Windows Search Service
The Windows Search service performs search queries automatically in the background. Restarting or starting this service ensures that search queries are processed accurately. If it crashes unexpectedly or becomes unresponsive, search bars may fail to deliver results and stop working altogether.
- Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
- Scroll down to Windows Search.
- Right-click and select Restart.
- If the service is not running, right-click and select Start.
Search and Indexing Troubleshooter
Windows includes an automated troubleshooter that detects and identifies search and indexing issues, providing quick solutions without manual intervention for common search bar problems. When run, this tool identifies errors, fixes corrupted indexes, restores functionality, and flags potential search issues.
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
- Find Search and Indexing and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose issues.
Windows Explorer
Restarting Windows Explorer refreshes these components, potentially resolving search bar-related glitches that cause temporary unresponsiveness or missing results. This temporary solution may also work when responding to unresponsiveness or missing search results.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Locate Windows Explorer under the Processes tab.
- Right-click → Restart.
Rebuild Search Index
Rebuilding the search index may require time, but it will ensure accurate search functionality across all files and folders. Replacing corrupt or outdated information with new, accurate information ensures accurate search functionality across the board and ensures efficient searching results from this toolbar.
- Press Win + S, type Indexing Options, and open it.
- Click Advanced.
- Under Index Settings, click Rebuild.
Windows Updates
Keeping Windows updates ensures all system files remain accurate and free from bugs, often fixing the Windows search bar not working issue caused by glitches or compatibility problems. Furthermore, updates improve stability, security, and performance, and prevent future search-related errors from recurring.
System File Checker (SFC) & DISM
SFC scans and repairs corrupt Windows system files while DISM fixes system image problems. Running these tools restores missing or broken search components, which are vital to proper search functionality, solving deeper-rooted issues that simple reboots cannot fix.
Also read: How to Clean Up Junk Files and Speed Up Your PC
Restart Cortana / SearchUI
Cortana or SearchUI handles search functions in Windows 10 and 11. Restarting these processes via Task Manager may resolve crashes or unresponsiveness issues. Windows automatically restarts them for optimal search bar behavior without necessitating an entire system reboot.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Task Manager.
- Find Cortana or SearchUI.
- Right-click → End task.
Final word
Troubleshooting the Windows search bar not working can be an annoying hassle, so take these steps to address and restore full functionality: restart services, check updates, rebuild index, and use the built-in troubleshooter (along with these other measures) until your search bar returns in great working order, making searching programs, files or settings on PCs much simpler.
FAQs: Windows Search Bar Not Working
Can Windows updates fix the search bar?
Yes, installing the latest Windows updates often resolves search bar errors caused by system bugs. Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates and install any pending updates, then restart your PC.
Why can’t I type in the Windows Search Bar?
You may not be able to type because Cortana/SearchUI is frozen, Windows Explorer is unresponsive, or system files are corrupted. Restarting Windows Explorer or the search process usually resolves the issue.
How do I fix the Windows Search Bar not showing?
Check that the Windows Search service is running. Enable the search box in taskbar settings: Right-click the taskbar → Search → Show search box. Restarting Windows Explorer often restores visibility.
Can keyboard issues cause typing problems in the search bar?
Yes. Ensure your keyboard is functioning properly. Try typing in another app. If it works elsewhere, the issue is software-related. If not, check drivers or replace the keyboard.
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