5 Ways to Resolve Windows Indexing Is Paused Issue Instantly

Windows Indexing Issues: A Common Problem

Windows indexing is a crucial feature that enhances search functionality, but it can sometimes get stuck or paused, causing frustration. Here are five effective methods to resolve the "Indexing is paused" issue on your Windows system.

1. Restart the Windows Search Service

One of the most straightforward methods to resolve the paused indexing issue is to restart the Windows Search service. This can be done in several ways:

• Using Services App:

  • Press the Windows key and type "SERVICES" in the search bar, then select the Services app.
  • In the Services window, scroll down to find the "Windows Search" service.
  • Right-click on "Windows Search" and select "Restart Service."
  • A warning may appear indicating that restarting this service will also stop and restart the "Windows Media Player Network Search Service." Click "OK" to proceed.

• Using Task Manager:

  • Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
  • Go to the "Services" tab.
  • Find the "WSearch" service, right-click on it, and select "Restart Service".

2. Rebuild the Search Index

Rebuilding the search index can often resolve issues where indexing is paused due to glitches or corruption. Here’s how to do it:

• Access Indexing Options:

  • Press the Windows key and type "control panel" in the search bar, then hit Enter.
  • In the Control Panel, scroll down to find "Indexing Options" and click on it.

• Rebuild the Index:

  • In the Indexing Options window, click on "Advanced" in the bottom left corner.
  • Under the "Index Settings" tab, click on "Rebuild" and confirm by clicking "OK."
  • This process may take some time, depending on your storage drive type.

3. Disable Prevent Indexing When Running on Battery Power

For laptop users, indexing might be paused due to power-saving policies. Here’s how to disable this policy:

• Open Local Group Policy Editor:

  • Press the Windows key and type "gpedit.msc" in the search bar, then hit Enter. Note: This method is not available for Windows 10 Home users.

• Navigate to the Policy:

  • In the Local Group Policy Editor, expand "Computer Configuration" > "Administrative Templates" > "Windows Components."
  • Find and double-click on "Search" in the right pane.
  • Locate and double-click on "Prevent indexing when running on battery power to conserve energy."
  • Select "Disabled" and click "Apply" to save the changes.

4. Run the Search and Indexing Troubleshooter

Windows provides a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix issues with the search and indexing service:

• Access Troubleshooter:
  • Open Windows Settings by pressing Win + I.
  • Go to "System" and then select "Troubleshoot" on the right pane.
  • Scroll down to find "Other troubleshooters" and click on it.
  • Find the "Search and Indexing" troubleshooter and click "Run" next to it.
  • Follow the prompts to identify and fix any issues.

5. Check and Adjust Windows Search Service Settings

Ensuring the Windows Search service is properly configured is crucial for maintaining indexing functionality:

• Open Services:
  • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type "services.msc," and hit Enter.
  • Scroll down to find the "Windows Search" service.
  • Right-click on it and select "Properties."
  • Ensure the startup type is set to "Automatic (Delayed Start)." If the service is not running, click "Start" and then "Apply" to save the changes.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "Indexing is paused" issue and restore your Windows search functionality to optimal levels.