Windows 11 File Explorer no longer remembers search history; how to reenable?

Anonymous
2023-03-18T16:09:33+00:00

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

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage

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.

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  1. Anonymous
    2023-07-05T18:17:52+00:00

    I don't think they are going to make any changes that they can't bill each user for. So I wouldn't hold my breath.

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  2. Anonymous
    2023-06-09T23:47:49+00:00

    Personally I think removing the search history is a wonderful improvement to privacy, but it doesn't go far enough. Please could Microsoft also remove the "Recent" file list in the File menu of Apps... especially Microsoft Office Apps. Any user who needs to return to a document they were previously editing is obviously not working efficiently - frankly it is probably about time they were replaced by AI.

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  3. Anonymous
    2023-05-19T09:28:14+00:00

    What choice does anyone have anymore? MS is bent on ruling the world!

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  4. Anonymous
    2023-05-09T05:38:11+00:00

    Dear Hahn - MSFT :

    You seem to have trouble writing an accurate description.

    You say: Click on "Search" in the left-hand menu.

    <There is NO "Search" in this menu! Do you mean the "find a setting" text box ???

    You say: Click on "Permissions & history."

    <There is NO "Permissions & history" to click on. Do you mean type "Permissions & history" in the "find a setting" text box ??? This returns "No results for ...etc...".

    However, typing only "Permissions" in this text box does take me to a page labeled "Search Permissions".

    You say: Under "History," make sure that the option "Search history on this device" is enabled.

    <It's either "On" or "Off" ... there is NO "enabled".

    Anyway, thanks for trying. I'm sure you'll improve with practice.

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  5. Anonymous
    2023-05-07T03:42:52+00:00

    When it will be resolve by windows?

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