Outlook Search Not Working: When the search feature in Microsoft Outlook stops working, it can cause frustration and inconvenience for users. However, there are several solutions available to fix this issue, including rebuilding the search index, repairing the Outlook profile, clearing the cache, and checking for updates. Users may need to try multiple solutions to find the one that works best for them.

How to Fix Outlook Search Not Working In Windows 11

Microsoft Outlook users may face issues with the search feature, causing inconvenience. However, there are various solutions to fix this problem without losing any data. Users can try different solutions if one doesn’t work.

Here are some ways to troubleshoot Outlook search issues on Windows 11:

1. Run the Search and Indexing Troubleshooter in Outlook

• Click the Start button or press the Windows key and choose Settings from the resulting menu.
• In the Settings app, navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
• Scroll down the list on the right-hand side until you locate Search and Indexing, and click on the Run button.
• Select the option that says “Outlook search doesn’t return results” and follow the on-screen instructions. The troubleshooter will automatically identify and repair any issues.
• Open Outlook and check if the search function is working correctly.

2. Repair Outlook on Windows 11

• Open Settings from the Start menu.
• Select “Apps” and then “Installed apps.”
• In the search field, type “Office” and click the three-dot menu.
• Select “Advanced options” from the menu.
• Scroll down to the “Reset” section on the right side and click the “Repair” button.
• Once the repair is complete, a checkmark will appear next to it.
• Relaunch Outlook and check if the search function is working properly.

3. Check Search Indexing and Locations

• Position the cursor in the Search box after opening Outlook.
• Click on Indexing Status from the Search Tools menu.
• Allow Outlook some time to index files.
• Once finished, click OK to check if Outlook’s search function is working properly.

4. Rebuild the Search Index

• Open the Start menu.
• Type CPL and select Control Panel from the Best Match section.
• Make sure View by is set to Large icons and click Indexing Options.
• Click the Advanced button near the bottom of the Indexing Options screen.
• Confirm the rebuilding process by clicking OK on the message that appears, informing you that rebuilding the index can take some time.
• Wait until the indexing rebuilding completes.
• Check if Outlook search is working properly again after the rebuilding process has finished.

5. Reset Microsoft Outlook on Windows 11

• Open the Start menu and access the Settings menu.
• In the Search field, type “Office,” click the three-dot menu, and select “Advanced options.”
• Scroll down the right side to the “Reset” section and click the “Reset” button.
• Click the “Reset” button in the verification menu that appears.
• Resetting the app will remove its data, so you’ll need to re-enter your information and reconfigure your settings. However, it will also remove conflicting files and provide a clean installation with the latest app updates.

6. Run an SFC and DISM Scan

• Open PowerShell as Administrator by clicking the Start button or pressing the Windows key, searching for PowerShell, and selecting “Run as Administrator” from the options on the right.
• Once the PowerShell terminal opens, run the following command: “sfc /scannow” (without quotes).
• After the SFC scan completes, run a DISM scan by running the following command: “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” (without quotes).

By following these steps, users can troubleshoot Outlook search issues on Windows 11 and ensure that the search function works properly.