Fix File Explorer Search History Not Showing on Windows 11

Windows 11 Explorer search history disappears? Try these fixes!

Windows 11 Explorer is an important tool for quickly finding files and folders. However, some users reported that Explorer no longer saves search history even if it is not manually cleared. This article will introduce several solutions.

Problem description:

There was a feedback from the Microsoft forum: "I often use Explorer to search for local files. Until recently, it remembered my past searches, but since two days ago, without any warning, Explorer stopped saving these searches; the search bar is empty. How do I re-enable it?"

This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, such as corruption of index files, outdated Windows updates, or third-party software conflicts. Here are some fixes:

Method 1: Check search permissions

First, make sure that search permissions are enabled:

1. Press the Windows I key to open the settings .
2. Go to Privacy and Security . Under Windows Permissions , find Search Permissions and click.
3. Scroll down to find the History section to check if the Search History on this device is enabled. If not enabled, turn it on.

Method 2: Uninstall ExplorerPatcher

Some users report that uninstalling ExplorerPatcher can fix this issue. Since ExplorerPatcher may have interface conflicts with Explorer Manager, it is recommended to uninstall it:

1. Enter Control Panel in the search box.
2. Under Programs , select Uninstall the program . Then, locate the ExplorerPatcher , right-click and select Uninstall .
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation.

Method 3: Uninstall KB5023706 or KB5025239

Some users reported that Explorer stopped displaying search history after installing the March 2023 Windows 11 22H2 cumulative update (KB5023706 or KB5025239). So you can try uninstalling these updates:

1. Press the Windows I key to open the settings .
2. Go to Windows Update > Uninstall Update .
3. Check whether KB5023706 or KB5025239 is installed. If found, click the Uninstall button to uninstall it.

Method 4: Downgrade Windows 11 22H2 to Windows 11 21H2

Tests show that this problem does not occur with Windows 11 21H2 or Windows 10 22H2. Therefore, you might consider downgrading Windows 11 22H2 to Windows 11 21H2 or earlier. The following figure is an example of the Explorer search history in Windows 11 21H2:

Note: Before downgrading your system, be sure to back up important files, especially files on your desktop, to avoid data loss.

Method 5: Contact Microsoft Support

If the above method is invalid, please contact Microsoft official support for help.

Summarize

Hope the above method can help you solve the problem of the disappearance of Windows 11 Explorer search history. If you have other solutions, please share them in the comment section.

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