Troubleshooting guide
How to fix the problem
Indexing prepares data for file searches. A large file transfer or system setup can create a temporary workload. Let it finish first; if the load keeps returning, reduce indexed locations rather than disabling the entire search service.
Possible solutions
Choose the method that matches your situation. Start with the simplest suitable option and check the result. If the problem is fixed, you do not need to continue with the other methods.
Confirm indexing is the source of the load
This adjustment will not fix a workload caused by another process.
Steps to follow
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and sort Processes by CPU or Disk. Check whether Microsoft Windows Search Indexer is near the top.
- Search Start for Indexing Options and open the system window. Check whether it reports that indexing is complete.
- If you recently added many files, connect power and leave the computer on when you are not using it. Check the status again later.
- If indexing is complete but the PC is still slow, return to Task Manager and note which process is now using resources.
Reduce the folders being indexed
Keep useful document locations indexed and exclude unnecessary large archives.
Steps to follow
- In Indexing Options, select Modify and review selected locations. Take a screenshot before changing them.
- Deselect large archives or frequently regenerated work folders where you do not use Windows search. Do not indiscriminately exclude documents.
- If Enhanced search is selected in Windows search settings, consider Classic and review its included locations. Names vary by version.
- Apply the changes and, once indexing settles, compare resource use and a search for an important document. Restore an excluded location if needed.
If the problem persists
If indexing repeatedly restarts or search displays errors, record the messages and seek diagnostics. Rebuilding the index repeatedly creates additional work each time.
Request a repair