Windows 7: Start Menu search programs and files not working

Just recently I have found that typing a program name into the start menu no longer returns the programs that match. I tried to install a hotfix which didn't work (update not applicable to my computer). I've seen other posts about deleting a registry key, but I don't have that registry key in the first place. I've also rebuilt the search index with no success. Can anyone provide any other ideas for how to fix this as it's a real pain.

BTW, I can't be sure, but I believe the problem may have surfaced after installing Google Desktop Search.

Welcome to Seven Forums Philled.
In the Search box, type Index, hopefully you'll see an entry for Find and Fix Problems With Windows Search. Run the trouble shooter to see if it will help. I suspect Google disabled Windows search.

Unfortunately the troubleshooter reported "couldn't identify the problem". Where do you think I should look next?

Hello Philled, and welcome to Seven Forums.

You could do a system restore using a restore point dated before this started to hopefully undo and fix it.

Hope this helps,
Shawn