Recently, I began experiencing a severe problem where no File Explorer (explorer.exe) windows would load (i.e., they would appear empty and the loading bar would keep going forever) and most functions stopped working (e.g., the “Properties” dialogue box wouldn’t appear, most start-up programs failed to launch, etc.). This persisted despite repeated reboots, the installation of all available updates, and a System Restore operation.
Long story short, I eventually identified the culprit as the Windows Search service. Disabling it restores my computer to perfect working order. I’ve Googled a bit but didn’t find any mentions of this specific issue, much less how to fix it.
I often rely on Explorer’s built-in search feature, so having to disable it is fairly limiting. Does anyone know what to do to re-enable it without it crippling my Windows/File Explorer?
I’ll be checking for replies periodically, but I only have access to my computer about once a week to try out suggestions.
Thanks in advance.
Long story short, I eventually identified the culprit as the Windows Search service. Disabling it restores my computer to perfect working order. I’ve Googled a bit but didn’t find any mentions of this specific issue, much less how to fix it.
I often rely on Explorer’s built-in search feature, so having to disable it is fairly limiting. Does anyone know what to do to re-enable it without it crippling my Windows/File Explorer?
I’ll be checking for replies periodically, but I only have access to my computer about once a week to try out suggestions.
Thanks in advance.
My Computer
System One
-
- OS
- Windows 8.1 Pro (x64)
- Computer type
- Laptop
- System Manufacturer/Model
- Asus G750JZ-DB73
- CPU
- Intel Core i7-4700HQ @ 2.40 GHz
- Motherboard
- ASUSTek Computer Inc. G750JZ (Intel/Haswell)
- Memory
- 32 GB Dual-Channel DDR3 @ 798MHz
- Graphics Card(s)
- Intel HD Graphics 4600 / NVIDIA GeForce GTX 880M
- Sound Card
- PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
- Screen Resolution
- 1920x1080
- Browser
- Firefox (latest)
- Antivirus
- Windows Defender + Spybot Search & Destroy