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I frequently use File Explorer to search for local files. Until recently, it would remember my past file searches, but beginning two days ago, without warning, File Explorer no longer remembers those searches; the search bar is empty. How do I reenable it?
I've confirmed that search and file history is enabled in Privacy settings. Any suggestions? Thanks.
Windows 11 Home 10.0.22621 Build 22621
Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.
I can't speak for the OP but I tried the steps you describe and still have the issue, I have this on both windows 11 computers I use and it's quite annoying. I posted about this over a week ago and the reply was that this is a known bug reported by multiple people. Can you confirm is this a bug that is being worked on? If anyone has managed to solve it I'd appreciate a solution.
Thanks
Thank you for the suggestions. I tried them all except the last (I do not want to reset my File Explorer customizations), but the problem remains. Also, some of the steps outlined do not match my Windows version:
Clear the File Explorer history: Open File Explorer, click on the "View" tab in the ribbon, and then click on "Options." In the "Folder Options" window, click on the "Clear" button next to "Clear File Explorer history." This will clear the search history and may enable it to start working again.
This is incorrect. "Options" is available under the three dots on the Explorer ribbon, not under "View."
Check the Search settings: Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I, then click on "Search" and select "Searching Windows." Make sure that the option "Search history on this device" is enabled.
This is incorrect. There is no "Search" option here. Where is it?
This is happening on both my Windows 11 PCs too.
I have searched the internet, and tried all suggestions, including those here - nothing works.
Can MS confirm this is a known issue, and will be fixed?
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I have followed all the steps mentioned, but no action has been taken, and the problem still exists
Those steps will make no difference in regards to bringing back the search history drop-down list in Explorer.
That is, there is no way to get this feature back in Windows 11:
The original Windows 11 21H2 build from 2021 had the drop-down history.
When Microsoft changed the Explorer search behavior to display results as you type, the history feature was removed.
There is no known fix or patch to get that feature back.
Just admit that MS REMOVED this very helpful and traditional feature. One day, after some update that I'll never recall or find, File Explorer search history (to spell it out: where a drop-down shows showing a clock and a bunch of previously-searched words) no longer showed.
This is absolutely asinine. What a joke.
