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
    2024-01-19T13:51:45+00:00

    Why is the File Explorer search history still an issue? This along with the Quick Access / Home change that took place is severely hampering productivity. Started with one of these 2024 Windows 11 updates.

    KB4023057

    KB5034121

    KB5034276

    KB5034440

    Please do not suggest uninstalling an update - I am working on a company-issued computer that I have no administrative rights to. Microsoft NEEDS to fix these awful updates that are pushed before being thoroughly tested!

    Hi Diplocaulus,

    We fully understand the inconvenience the issue has caused and that the current situation can be frustrating.  

    Currently, such issues, of which the Microsoft technical team is aware, are gathering more information to address the issue in a subsequent version update.

    We advise you to be patient and hope that this document will be resolved soon.

    Your Sincerely

    Hahn - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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  2. Anonymous
    2024-03-01T15:54:21+00:00

    Just found this thread after losing this ability, as well. Funny thing is it was working fine up until the other day when my job set up my new PC. This is so ridiculous that they would remove such a feature. Half of my job is searching through files so this is going to make my life miserable. Microsoft, you need to STOP ignoring all these users and bring back the feature!

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  3. Anonymous
    2024-03-01T16:01:13+00:00

    YES!!!! AGREE.

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  4. Anonymous
    2024-03-01T16:08:38+00:00

    Amazingly, they don't respond to all these people with this problem.

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  5. Anonymous
    2024-03-01T17:25:47+00:00

    I also tried the above steps when they were first posted and they do not work.

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