How to fix
File Explorer error “No items match your search”
on Windows

Hello. I hope you guys can help me. Every time I type something into the Windows search box, it returns no results. I know that because I tried to search for an item that is definitely on my computer.  Please help me!

The File Explorer[ref en-1] is a useful tool that should find all files and folders based on keywords or exact matches of users' queries. Nevertheless, users might experience some troubles with it. The most common problem with File Explorer is that it cannot find anything based on the keyword entered, even if the item is located somewhere on the system. Do not worry, as we are here to help you - we compiled solutions that should help you fix “No items match your search” in Windows 10.

The File Explorer error “No items match your search” issue appears due to the search tool not working correctly, i.e., Search feature of File Explorer is broken.  The main culprit of malfunction is due to indexing issues on Windows 10. Additionally, the index database could be corrupted. There are several ways of fixing it, and it highly depends on your system configuration and other settings.

When you encounter certain problems with your machine, you should always check if no malware[ref en-2] is causing it. The more common symptoms of virus infection include:

• Constant crashes or slow operation of the software installed
• High CPU/GPU usage
• PCs fan working at maximum capacity
• Computer slowdowns or crashes
• Frequent BSoDs[ref en-3]
• Increased amount of advertisement popping out of nowhere

Unfortunately, some malware may show no signs or symptoms whatsoever. Thus it is always a good idea to obtain a powerful security tool and perform consistent computer scans. We suggest using [d1]. In addition to the ability to scan and remove malware, the program is also capable of automatically fixing various computer issues, including "No items match your search" error.

If Reimage did not fix your problem with File Explorer, proceed with the solutions below.

This video will provide you with information needed to eliminate this problem:
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Fix 1. Run Search and Indexing Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in repair tools called Troubleshooters. These programs are capable of detecting certain problems on the PC and repairing them automatically. In this particular case, we need to find Search and Indexing Troubleshooter:

1. Press Windows key + R
2. Type in Control Panel and press Enter 
3. In the Control Panel search box type in Troubleshoot
4. Then click Troubleshooting > View all
5. Select Search and Indexing and click Next
6. Let Troubleshooter run and fix all your search problems automatically

   

In case search in the Run window does not work either, follow these guidelines instead:

1. Right-click on Start menu and select Settings
2. Navigate to Update and Security > Troubleshoot
3. Locate Search and Indexing Troubleshooter and run it

Fix 2. Restart Cortana

Users noted that restarting Cortana[ref en-4] (she controls Windows search) proved to be useful:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
2. Scroll down and find Cortana in the list
3. Right click on it and press End Task

   

Fix 3. Rebuild Indexing services

Search index might be corrupted. Hence your searches return no results. To fix "No items match your search," follow these instructions:

1. Click on Start button and go to All Apps
2. Scroll down to Windows System and click on Control Panel
3. Select the Small Icon View and choose Indexing Options
4. Select Advanced and then click on Rebuild
5. When warning pops up, click OK

   

Fix 4. Make sure Windows Search Service is enabled

To fix the File Explorer Search tool, you need to turn on Windows Search Service (in case it is switched off):

1. Press Windows Key + R and type in services.msc and click OK (if it does not work, go to Control Panel > Administrative Tools and double-click on Services)
2. Scroll down to find Windows Search and double-click it
3. Pick Automatic under the General tab > Startup type
4. Press Start, then Apply and finally OK (note: If Windows Search is enabled, make sure you restart it by right-clicking on it and pressing Restart)

   

Fix 5. Pick the Always search file names and contents option

To make sure that File Explorer search utility searches for files when searching non-indexed items, you need to enable Always search file names and contents option in the following way:

1.  Open File Explorer and pick View tab
2. Click on Options button and then press Change folder and search options on the menu
3. Under Search tab select Always search file names and contents and press Apply > OK