How to Reduce the “Microsoft Windows Search Indexer” High CPU Usage

Before resorting to a factory reset

Microsoft Windows Search Indexer, or searchindexer.exe, is a crucial process that powersWindows Search. It indexes the files and folders on your computer and, given its nature, consumes lots of CPU at sporadic intervals. However, if CPU usage remains high for prolonged periods, it may indicate an underlying problem that needs to be addressed.

In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to tackle high CPU and disk usage caused by the Windows Search Indexer with various suggestions and solutions for Windows 10 and 11.

Restart Windows Search Service

It’s best to begin by restarting Windows Search on your computer. That should resolve minor technical issues and reduce high CPU usage caused by the searchindexer.exe process. To do that:

Optionally, double-clickWindows Searchand ensure thatStartup typeis set toAutomatic(Delayed Start).

Restart Your PC

A PC reboot clears out additional software-related anomalies that interfere with system-related processes. Save your work, open theStart menu, and selectPower>Restart. If that makes no difference, move on with the rest of the fixes.

Run Search and Indexing Troubleshooter

Windows 11 and 10 have a built-in troubleshooter that helps diagnose and fix issues related to Windows Search. To run it:

Rebuild Index

Corruption issues within the Windows Search index often lead to erratic behavior with related processes. Use theControl Panel‘s Indexing Options console to rebuild the index from scratch.

Note: Rebuilding the search index takes time and causes high CPU and HDD/SSD usage for the duration of the procedure.

Note: Removing locations you don’t want to include within Windows Search can lessen the load on the searchindexer.exe process. Select theModifybutton on the Indexing Options console and uncheck the indexed locations you wish to exclude.

Update Windows

Keeping your Windows operating system up to date with the latest patches and updates can help resolve high CPU usage issues with the Windows Search Indexer process. This also helps improve system performance, security, and stability.

To update Windows, open the Settings app, selectWindows Update, and selectCheck for updates. If there are pending updates, chooseDownload and install.

Run an SFC Scan

The System File Checker (SFC) is a command line tool that can help fix system file corruption issues causing the Windows Search Indexer to malfunction. You can run it via an elevated Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt console. Here’s how:

sfc/scannow

Run DISM Tool to Fix Windows

Next, run the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool to resolve issues with operating system stability. Just re-open an elevated Windows PowerShell or Command Prompt console and execute the following command:

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth

Perform a Clean Boot

Clean booting Windowshelps you identify third-party applications or services causing conflicts with the Windows Search Indexer. To do that:

Additionally, open the Task Manager, disable any non-Microsoft login items from theStartuptab, and check if that helps.

Check for Malware

Malware can hijack the Windows Search Indexer and result in high CPU usage. Run a full system scan to detect and remove malicious software from your system. To do that:

You can follow that up with aMicrosoft Defender Antivirus (Offline scan), which scans your computer thoroughly for hidden threats. You can alsouse third-party anti-virus programstodeal with stubborn malware.

Factory Reset Windows

If none of the above methods work, consider factory resetting your PC. This will wipe all data from your computer, return the operating system to its original state, and resolve severe underlying issues with the Windows Search Indexer. Before proceeding, make sure to back up all important files and documents.

To initiate a factory reset, open the Settings app and go toSystem>Recovery>Reset PC. For comprehensive step-by-step instructions, check our guides toresetting Windows 11and 10 to factory defaults.

Dilum Senevirathne is a freelance tech writer and blogger with three years of experience writing for online technology publications. He specializes in topics related to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Google web apps. When he isn’t hammering away at his Magic Keyboard, you can catch him binge-watching productivity hacks on YouTube.Read Dilum’s Full Bio

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