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

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-06-13T14:05:31+00:00

    Lucky you! Unfortunately, my computer is new and came with Windows 11 installed. 😕 First thing I did was install Start11 to get the start menu back at least. I was so busy installing programs and so forth, I didn't even notice File Explorer didn't work properly.

    I'll be honest. I hated Windows 10 at first, too. 😁 But I got used to it. I figure the same will happen with Windows 11, but at least basic functions worked in Windows 10!

    I can't believe Microsoft doesn't even bother to fix File Explorer!

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  2. Anonymous
    2023-05-09T13:46:45+00:00

    Thank you so much for confirming the solution, we covered it here to help other users resolve their issue.

    https://appuals.com/file-explorer-no-longer-remembers-search-history/

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  3. Anonymous
    2023-05-02T07:15:59+00:00

    I have the same issue. I read everything and still not working

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  4. Anonymous
    2023-04-03T06:21:10+00:00

    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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  5. Anonymous
    2023-03-22T01:52:46+00:00

    Hi Diplocaulus,

    I apologize for the confusion caused by my previous response. Here are the steps to clear the File Explorer history and check the search settings in Windows 11:

    To clear the File Explorer history:

    Open File Explorer.

    Click on the three dots (ellipsis) in the upper-right corner of the window to open the menu.

    Click on "Options."

    In the "Folder Options" window, click on the "Clear" button next to "Clear File Explorer history."

    To check the search settings:

    Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.

    Click on "Search" in the left-hand menu.

    Click on "Permissions & history."

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

    According to the information provided by dear Hermitish, this does not exclude that it is a file explorer error.

    I have submitted this issue for you through internal channels. In addition, you can also submit your problem through the Feedback Hub (if convenient, please provide as much detail as possible, including pictures, repro videos, etc.).  

    Please share the feedback link after submitting, I will submit your feedback to the relevant team for investigation through internal channels.

    Your Sincerely

    Hahn - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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