indexing options Archives

Winsage

May 16, 2025

How to get started with Semantic Indexing on Windows 11

Semantic Indexing is an AI-driven feature in Windows 11 that enhances search functionality using Natural Language Processing (NLP) to interpret the context and intent behind search queries. It allows users to search for files, settings, and content using conversational language rather than exact keywords. Semantic Indexing is integrated into various components of Windows 11, including File Explorer, the Start menu, and the Taskbar search box. It requires a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) and is available on Copilot+ PCs starting with the May 2025 security update. Users can verify its activation by checking for specific AI components in the settings. The feature supports various file formats such as images and documents and is compatible with several languages, including English and Spanish. The rollout of these enhancements will occur gradually.

Winsage

April 28, 2025

Search Bar Not Working in Windows 11? Follow these Fixes

Numerous users have reported issues with the search bar functionality in Windows 11. A guide has been compiled to offer effective solutions, including: 1. Restarting File Explorer by opening Task Manager, finding "Windows Explorer," right-clicking it, and selecting "Restart." 2. Rebuilding the search index by accessing Windows Settings, navigating to Privacy & Security, selecting "Searching Windows," clicking on "Advanced indexing options," and choosing "Rebuild." 3. Starting the Windows Search service by opening the Run dialog, typing services.msc, locating "Windows Search," stopping the service, starting it again, setting the Startup type to "Automatic," and restarting the PC. 4. Ending the SearchHost.exe task in Task Manager by finding "Search," right-clicking it, and selecting "End task." 5. Using the Recovery tool via Windows Update by accessing Windows Settings, navigating to System -> Recovery, and clicking "Reinstall now" next to "Fix problems using Windows Update." Rebooting after these steps should restore the search bar's functionality. Rebuilding the search index can enhance local search speed, and users may also consider removing Bing search results from the Start menu.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Hate Windows 11’s search? Microsoft is fixing it with AI, and that almost makes me want to buy a Copilot+ PC

Windows 11 is introducing a natural language search feature for Copilot+ PCs, currently in testing. The latest Beta channel preview (build 26120.3585) includes 'local semantic search' capabilities for laptops with AMD or Intel processors, and Snapdragon (Arm-powered) PCs can access it in the Release Preview. This feature allows users to query settings directly and utilizes the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for local processing, ensuring no data is sent to the cloud. It can also retrieve photos from OneDrive alongside local files. Microsoft plans to extend support to third-party cloud storage services. The feature will gradually roll out in the Beta channel, and users may need to reboot their devices to activate it. Semantic indexing is enabled by default on Copilot+ PCs, with options to disable it or exclude specific files. The AI-driven search capability has progressed from the Dev channel to the Beta and Release Preview stages, indicating a strong likelihood of a finalized version for Windows 11.

Winsage

November 1, 2024

7 things you need to do to make search better in Windows 11

The Windows search tool allows users to find applications, music, and settings, as well as perform web searches. Many users find it cluttered with Bing results, leading to a slow experience. To improve search functionality in Windows 11, users can employ several strategies: 1. PowerToys Run: A rapid system search tool activated by pressing Alt + Space, allowing customization for executing shell commands and adjusting settings. 2. Search by Category: Users can filter search results by categories such as Apps, Documents, Web, Settings, Folder, and Photos by clicking the category or typing the category name followed by a colon. 3. Tweak Indexing Options: Users can adjust indexing options to include specific folders and libraries, speeding up searches by ensuring relevant files are indexed. 4. Enable Cloud Content Search: This feature allows Windows search to pull results from OneDrive, Outlook, and SharePoint, which can be activated through the Windows search settings. 5. Filter Results Better: Within File Explorer, users can refine search results by using the "Search options" drop-down to filter by modification date, file type, or file size. 6. Disable Bing Search: Users can disable Bing search results by modifying the Registry Editor to create a new key and setting its value to disable search box suggestions. 7. Use Everything: A third-party tool that provides faster file and folder searches by focusing solely on file names and updating in real-time.