How to Fix Outlook Email Search Not Working on Windows or Mac [SOLVED]

The Outlook search function is an amazing tool as it allows users to search for particular information in an email message, like sender, date, or folder where you have saved it. However, there are times when Outlook users have reported issues stating Outlook search was not working. It is very frustrating for the users as they get tired of searching for information, but they can’t find it because of the same issue. But, don’t worry, as you can troubleshoot the error in Outlook easily.

To troubleshoot the issue, you don’t require any technical assistance as there are several troubleshooting methods available to deal with the issue. To know about the methods, keep reading the guide.

Troubleshooting Methods for Outlook Search Not Working

To use the Outlook program, you have to fix the issue. There are several methods available to fix the issue quickly.

Method 1: Try Using Quick Fix

The first available to deal with the issue is using the quick-fix method. Check out the steps mentioned below to know how this method works:

1. Proceed to the control panel and click on the search icon, and type control panel. From the control panel, move to programs and tap on programs and features.
2. After that, select Office client, and from the top section of the page, select change. Now, pick quick repair and wait till the process is running.
3. After performing these steps, try to use Outlook search and check if the issue persists or not. If it persists, then check out the next method.

   
   

Method 2: Your Mailbox should be Indexed Properly

Several users have reported issues starting Outlook mail search not working. So, to deal with the issue, check if the mailbox is indexed properly or not. To resolve the issues, follow the instructions properly.

1. Start by running Outlook and tapping on File. Proceed to options and choose search from the left panel of the window.
2. Now, look at the right side and select indexing options. From here, choose to modify and access the indexed location window.
3. After that, select index MS Outlook completely. This method will help to troubleshoot the issue completely.

   
   

Method 3: Changes in Sleep Time

If you have emails saved on your Outlook client, you should consider providing the time required for re-indexing the operation. The re-index process will start with archiving, and if the sleep time determines the computer to enter sleep mode, then it will stop the index operation. For this, you can set the sleep time to a minimum of 5 hours before archiving your emails. After performing these steps, you can proceed back to the original settings. Now, see whether the issue of Outlook email search not working is resolved or not.

Summing Up

Now, you have information about the methods to deal with the Outlook search issue. If you are still facing the issue, then it might be because of a server issue. You can check the website from the down detector by entering Outlook’s URL in the requested field and tapping to search. In case if the server is down, you need to wait till it gets back up.

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