We all use the Windows search bar first when trying to find a file or a newly installed program. However, in some situations, instead of providing search results, Windows may display an error:Windows could not start the Windows Search service on your Local Computer.
In this guide, we’ll look at some troubleshooting methods to resolve the Windows Search service error.
Why Does the “Windows Search Service Could Not Start” Error Occur?
The Windows Search service error indicates that the system is unable to call the search service. This service handles all your searches, so whenever you type something on the search bar, it automatically finds and shows you the matching results.
Here are the main reasons that may cause the Windows Search service error:
1. Apply Some General Fixes
Try the fixes given below once and check whether you’re able to perform a Windows search or not:
These are just a few basic ways we expect to work in case of a Windows search error. But, if you’re still unable to search for anything, move to some advanced troubleshooting methods.
2. Restart the Relevant Windows Services
When you boot up Windows, more than 50 services start simultaneously. This helps the operating system to function correctly, and most of these services are dependent on each other. So, if one service fails or stops for any reason, the dependent services will misbehave too.
Let’s try fixing the search issue by restarting the dependent Windows services:
That’s it. Now restart your system and check for the search error. If you’re still facing the Windows search could not start error, restarting the dependent services should do the trick. So, take your time and restart the services once.
3. Fix Incorrect Group Policy Settings
Windows includes a useful app called the Group Policy Editor. This app helps administrators turn on/off more than 2000 Windows settings (or policies).
If theWindows Search Could Not Starterror persists on your system, the problem may lie in the misconfigured Group Policy settings. These incorrect settings can prevent the Windows Search service from starting correctly.
Below are the steps to modify the Group Policy settings on Windows:
The Group Policy Editor is an advanced tool, and incorrect tweaks can cause system instability. So, be careful to change only the mentioned settings. If a setting is unavailable or locked on your computer, proceed to the next one.
4. Enable Windows Search Service via MSConfig
The MSConfig utility (System Configuration tool) is a built-in feature that provides a central hub for troubleshooting and managing various aspects of your system. It’s pretty handy and can prove helpful for you if the Windows search service is not working.
Here’s how to enable the Windows Search service using MSConfig:
Besides this, MSConfig has many other use cases. Read our in-depth guide onMicrosoft System Configuration Utility (MSConfig)to know some of them.
5. Delete Files in the Windows TxR Directory
TxR (Transaction Resource Manager) is a directory (folder) that keeps track of all the changes you make to Windows files.
We assume a malicious program has somehow messed with the system files. And so, this change is already recorded in the TxR directory. To fix the issue, we’ll delete the files in this directory to check how things were before the search issue occurred.
Follow the below-given steps to delete files in the TxR directory on Windows:
The steps might seem too complex, but the screenshots should help you. Besides, as Microsoft recommends, there’s no harm in deleting the files in case of search service-related errors.
6. Reset Windows Search
Microsoft provides a PowerShell script on their website to reset Windows search. We’ll show you how to use it and get the search service working on your computer again.
To get started, download theReset Windows Search PowerShell script. Go to your downloads folder and double-click on the downloaded script file (with a.PS1extension).
The script will now reset the search-related options and settings to their default state. Once done, open the Windows search bar and type something to check whether it’s working.
7. Reinstall Windows
Unfortunately, if none of the solutions worked, your last option is reinstalling Windows. For this, seehow to reinstall Windows. There’s no need to worry; this reinstallation will not remove any important files and apps.
We understand this is a big step as no one would love to re-set up the whole system again. But don’t worry; to help you better, here’s a guide onpost-Windows installation setup. Follow it, and you can enhance your new Windows setup twofold.
Windows Search Service Fixed and Working
We understand the frustration when you can’t run Windows searches with one click. Hopefully, the provided solutions will help you restore the Windows search feature. Additionally, now that the search functions correctly, ensure to utilize all the search features fully.
For instance, Windows search now includes Bing Chat AI and daily news, which you might want to experience at least once.
