Windows 10: How do I get my Windows 11 indexing to work properly

The indexing status for my Windows 11 Search always states paused. Even after I restart. It seems to be indexing extremely slowly but I can't find files I know are there and my Outlook indexing status indicates that most of my PST emails remain to be indexed. Is there a fix that actually works for everyone or is there a fix due to come from Microsoft? My Windows 11 Search function does not work properly. It always tells me it is paused although whilst actually slowly updating the total number for files indexed. I cannot find files through windows search and my outlook search is useless as we

:)

 

Indexing is not working

Hi Doc,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.

This issue may occur due to corrupt Windows search files or settings. I suggest you to follow the below method and check if it helps.

Method 1: I would suggest you to run search and indexing troubleshooter
and check. Please follow these steps:

• 
  Type troubleshooting in the search box on taskbar.
  
• 
  Click troubleshooting in the search results.
  
• 
  Click "View all" and then click "Search and Indexing".
  
• 
  Click "Next" and follow on-screen instructions.
  

Method 2: Check if Indexing and Windows Search services are enabled. If not, enable them, if they are already enabled, then disable Windows Search Service and then enable again and restart.

• 
  Press Windows key + R.
  
• 
  Type services in the run box, go to the Windows search services and restart them.
  

Hope it helps.

 

Windows 10 indexing / search

Hi Erik,

System conflict is one of the possible reasons why the index built will not function properly. We suggest running the Search and Indexing troubleshooter by following these steps to resolve your issue:

• Open Control Panel.
• In the search box, type troubleshooting.
• Click on Troubleshooting.
• Click on View all.
• Select Search and Indexing and select the proper scenario that you are experiencing on indexing and click
  Next for the troubleshooting to begin.

Update us with the outcome so we can provide you further assistance.

 

Windows 10 Indexing fails to open

Hi,



Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.



I understand that Search Indexing is not working for you. I’ll certainly assist you with this.



I would suggest you to check if the Windows Search service is running properly. To do this, refer the steps mentioned below:

1. Press Windows logo key + R, to open
   Run dialog box.
   
2. Type services.msc and click on
   OK.
   
3. Look for Windows Search service in the list, and double click on it.
   
4. Select Automatic from the drop down for
   Startup Type.
   
5. Click on Start and OK.
   
6. Follow the steps 3 to 5 for Background Task Infrastructure and RPC service.
   

You can also try an alternate method to access indexing options. Press
Windows logo key + R, type control.exe srchadmin.dll and click on
OK. Let us know if you are able to access the indexing options.



We await your response.



Regards,

Nikhar Khare

Microsoft Community - Moderator