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

Is your computer running slow, with your CPU fan spinning like a jet engine? You open Task Manager and see “Microsoft Windows Search Indexer” hogging your resources. You’re not alone—this process can get out of hand, especially on older machines or systems with lots of files.

Here’s how to get the Search Indexer under control, speed up your computer, and keep Windows Search useful.

What is Windows Search Indexer?

The Windows Search Indexer speeds up file searches in Windows. It works by creating an index of files, emails, and other content on your computer. But sometimes, it goes into overdrive—using too much CPU and slowing everything down.

Quick Fixes

1. Restart the Windows Search Service

Sometimes the Indexer just gets stuck. A restart can help.

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
• Scroll down to Windows Search.
• Right-click it, choose Restart.

2. Limit What Gets Indexed

If you let Windows index everything, it’s going to work overtime. Restrict it to what you really search for.

• Open Control Panel > Indexing Options.
• Click Modify.
• Uncheck folders you don’t need indexed (like big folders of photos or archives).
• Click OK.

3. Rebuild the Index

A corrupted index can cause high CPU usage. Rebuilding fixes this.

• In Indexing Options, click Advanced.
• Under the Index Settings tab, click Rebuild.
• It may take a while, but you can use your PC as normal.

4. Pause or Disable Indexing (if you don’t use Windows Search)

If you never use Windows Search, you can pause or disable the service:

• In services.msc, find Windows Search.
• Right-click > Properties.
• Set Startup type to Manual or Disabled.
• Click Stop.

Warning: Disabling Search means you lose fast file searches in Windows Explorer and Start Menu.

5. Update Windows

Microsoft regularly releases patches that fix bugs—including indexing problems. Make sure your system is up to date.

• Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.

6. Check for Malware

Some malware disguises itself as system processes. Run a scan with Windows Defender or your preferred antivirus to be safe.

Final Thoughts

The Windows Search Indexer is handy, but it shouldn’t cripple your system. With these quick fixes, you can stop it from eating up your CPU, keep your computer running smoothly, and still enjoy fast file searches.

Still having trouble? Drop your questions in the comments below!

Want more Windows performance tips? [Subscribe to our newsletter] or check out our latest posts.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!