Solved Search boxes have disappeared after W7 Update

[RichardDL]

Last week c. 11-Apr-2015 I rebooted my laptop and it actioned a pile of updates. After restart the start menu search box had disappeared. (Press the start menu and it should be below 'all programs', but it's gone). I moved the taskbar in case it was hiding - not there. I created a new account in-case one of my tweaks had made it go away - not showing in there either. Now I realise the the explorer search box (top right corner) is gone as well.

The search box was the only thing that made the W7 start menu half usable, and they've taken that away. And the file filter - how I'd love to see the XP search window with the stupid doggy now.

Anyone else seen this? Explain what's going on?

 

[Layback Bear]

The first question is, how and where did you get Windows 7 Enterprise?

From your specs.

System Manufacturer/Model Number HP EliteBook 840
OS Windows 7 Enterprise x64 SP1

 

[RichardDL]

The laptop was supplied via large corporate employer with robust I.T. policies, AV etc. and corporate deal with HP.

 

[Sir George]

Last week c. 11-Apr-2015 I rebooted my laptop and it actioned a pile of updates. After restart the start menu search box had disappeared. (Press the start menu and it should be below 'all programs', but it's gone). I moved the taskbar in case it was hiding - not there. I created a new account in-case one of my tweaks had made it go away - not showing in there either. Now I realise the the explorer search box (top right corner) is gone as well.

The search box was the only thing that made the W7 start menu half usable, and they've taken that away. And the file filter - how I'd love to see the XP search window with the stupid doggy now.

Anyone else seen this? Explain what's going on?

Restart Windows Search Service

1. Press “Windows + R” key together for Run Prompt and type “services.msc”, click OK.
2. This will open the Windows Service Management Window. Scroll down and locate “Windows Search”. Right click on “Windows Search” service and click Restart.

If you are not able to locate this service, see the next section to Install Windows Search Component.

1. Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features
2. Click on “Turn Windows features on or off” link on the left hand pane.
3.On the Windows Features Window, scroll Down to “Windows Search”, check the box if it is unchecked and click OK.

This will install the Windows Search feature if it was missing or uninstalled. Just restart your computer and check the start menu, the search option on the start menu should be back.

 

[RichardDL]

That fixed it. It needed the 2nd part, in Windows Features.

Thanks.

 

[Layback Bear]

I'm glad you got things fixed.
Have you informed the large corporate employer I.T. department of the problem you were having and the repair you did?

I.T. departments do like to be kept up to date on such things.

 

[RichardDL]

Yes, did that just after seeing it fixed.