Can’t Type in Windows 11 Search Bar? Try These 7 Fixes

Frustrated by a non-responsive Windows Search bar? You’re not alone. This guide offers solutions to fix the search bar and get it working again.

Possible Reasons

1. Check for Obvious Problems

2. Restart Windows Explorer and Windows Search

Restarting the Windows explorer will refresh the search bar.

If that doesn’t work,Microsoft recommendsrestarting Windows Search.

Cool Tip:Don’t like how the Task Manager works or fancy yourself a power user? I found someTask Manager alternativesthat put it to shame.

3. Run Search and Index Troubleshooter

Windows OS has some built-in troubleshooters for common problems that users may encounter. This is one of them.

4. Restart Windows Search and Windows Font Cache Service

Windows Serviceslets you view and manage background services on your Windows PC. Start, stop, or change how they run to troubleshoot issues, optimize performance, or manage security. Too technical? Just follow the simple steps below.

5. Rebuild Search Index

An outdated and corrupt search index can result in incorrect or slow search results. Since this feature is related to the search bar, you must rebuild the index manually.

6. Run the CTFMON Process

The CTFMON process acts like a behind-the-scenes traffic cop for your typing in Windows. It handles both voice and text input. If this process isn’t running, your search bar won’t accept any typed characters. Here’s how to manually get it rolling again.

Press theWindows key + Rto launch theRun dialog box.Typectfmon.exeand pressEnter.

7. Run SFC and DISM Scan

Windows has built-in tools, SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management), to scan for and fix corrupt system files. Here’s how to use them (remember you’ll need an internet connection):

There are other ways to find what you are looking for on Windows. I prefer using thePowerToys. It’s an open-source and free app that will supercharge your OS and unique and fun features. One of them is the universal search that appears instantly, anywhere, when you press Windows+Spacebar keyboard shortcut.

Gaurav Bidasaria

Gaurav is an editor here at TechWiser but also contributes as a writer. He has more than 10 years of experience as a writer and has written how-to guides, comparisons, listicles, and in-depth explainers on Windows, Android, web, and cloud apps, and the Apple ecosystem.

He loves tinkering with new gadgets and learning about new happenings in the tech world.

He has previously worked on Guiding Tech, Make Tech Easier, and other prominent tech blogs and has over 1000+ articles that have been read over 50 million times.

Can’t Type in Windows 11 Search Bar? Try These 7 Fixes