Windows 10: Windows search, indexing, and update not working despite common fix attempts

I've been experiencing persistent issues with the Windows Search function on my Windows 10 system. When I attempt to use the search feature, it seems that not all applications are appearing in the results. I've noticed that in Task Manager, the Search process is automatically suspended and displays the message, "This UWP process group is suspending processes to improve system performance."I have attempted a series of troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue. Firstly, I tried restarting the Windows Search service from the Services management console, only to encounter an error stating "Windo

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Windows search, indexing, and update not working despite common fix attempts

I've been experiencing persistent issues with the Windows Search function on my Windows 10 system. When I attempt to use the search feature, it seems that not all applications are appearing in the results. I've noticed that in Task Manager, the Search process is automatically suspended and displays the message, "This UWP process group is suspending processes to improve system performance."

I have attempted a series of troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue. Firstly, I tried restarting the Windows Search service from the Services management console, only to encounter an error stating "Windows could not start the Windows Search service on Local Computer. Error 21: The device is not ready."

I then tried the following:

• Restarted my computer.
  
• Checked the Windows Search service dependencies, which are running fine.
  
• Ran the built-in Windows Troubleshooters for Search and Indexing and Windows Update.
  
• Performed a system file check with sfc /scannow, followed by the DISM tool with DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
  
• Attempted to rebuild the search index from the Control Panel's Indexing Options.
  
• Deleted and rebuilt the Windows.edb file for the search index.
  
• Ensured my Windows was up to date with the latest updates.
  
• Attempted to perform a repair upgrade using the Windows Media Creation Tool and the Windows 10 ISO, which did not resolve the search issue.
  
• Checked for and attempted to fix any potential issues with the BITS service by setting it to Automatic and starting it, but it keeps reverting back to Manual and not running.
  
• Verified through the Registry Editor that the BITS start type is set to 3 (Manual) and it automatically resets to this value after any change.
  

Despite these efforts, the problem remains unresolved. The automatic suspension of the Search process appears to be at the heart of the issue. I'm seeking advice on what further steps I can take to diagnose and resolve this problem, as it's significantly affecting my productivity and system usability.

Additionally, I have encountered unusual behavior with the Windows.edb file and related indexing files in the directory C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Search\Data\Applications\Windows. Initially, all the expected folders and files were present, but then they began to disappear, leaving only the "Projects" folder before eventually all contents vanished. Opening 'Windows' over and over, all of the contents would eventually return, including the .edb file, even if I deleted it. When attempting to delete the Windows.edb file as part of troubleshooting the indexing issues, it seemingly had no effect and the file behavior continued to be erratic.

 

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.

 

Help fixing windows search: Windows search service and indexing do not work. Maybe Registry problem.

Hi Alan,

Thanks for posting your query on Microsoft Community.

We understand the inconvenience caused and we will try our best to resolve the issue.

We appreciate you fro trying the troubleshooting steps.

As the issue still persists, I suggest you to run Search and Indexing troubleshooter and check if it helps.

Follow the below steps:

• 
  a. Type Troubleshooting in the Search box from the desktop.
  
  b. Select the Troubleshooting option.
  
  c. Select View All option and select the Search and Indexing.
  
  d. Click on Next to perform the Search and Indexing troubleshooter and follow the steps.
  

Hope it helps, reply to us with the status of your issue. We will be happy to assist you.