Windows 11 File Explorer Search function does not display any results

Question

I am using a Windows 11 Pro OS on a new Dell XPS 13 laptop. The Windows 11 Search function in File Explorer does not work. I enter a search term and it ALWAYS returns a 'no file found' response. I can literally cut and paste a file that is visible in the folder and enter that into the Search bar function on the upper right and will ALWAYS get back a 'no file found' result. Windows 11 has had its problems for me and this one is - so far - the worst as far as functionality. Don't send complex responses that involve reloading the entire system please. If that's what this is going to require, then I'm going to replace the entire OS with Windows 10.

Answer 1

Hello Erin1616,

Good day! I'm John Dev a Windows user like you and I'll be happy to assist you today. I know this has been difficult for you, Rest assured, I'm going to do my best to help you.

Please try the following methods below.

**Run Searching and Indexing Troubleshooter

Press Windows key+I to open Settings

Select System tab then click Troubleshoot

Click on the Other troubleshooters > Scroll down and locate the Search and Indexing troubleshooter

Run the troubleshooter

**Restart Windows Explorer

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

Select the Processes tab.

Scroll down and look for Windows Explorer

Right click then select Restart.

**Rebuild Search Index

Press Windows key+R to open Run then type: control

Press Enter

Click on View menu at the top and then choose Large icons.

Click on the Indexing Options > Advanced button

On the Advanced window, switch to the File Types tab and choose Index Properties and File Contents option at the bottom.

Switch to the Index Settings tab and click Rebuild option

Restart your computer

Kindly let me know if this helps or if you have any further concerns.

Kind regards,

John DeV

Independent Advisor