How to Turn Off Microsoft Search Indexer

PC users might be oblivious to how many processes and services run while the operating system is in use. However, heavy background activity might cause noticeable degradation in PC performance. The search index tracks changes to files on the hard drive. User account holders have a "Documents" folder that holds common files, such as music, pictures and other miscellaneous data. As the index updates the search function with changes to these files, it might slow down the hard drive and other computer resources. If you are not a frequent user of search, you do have the option of disabling it.

• 1

  Click "Start." Type "Services" in the search box at the bottom of the "Start" menu. Press "Enter."

• 2

  Scroll down and right-click on the "Windows Search" service. Select "Properties" from the menu.

• 3

  Click the "General" tab to the front of the "Windows Search Properties" dialog box.

• 4

  Click the "Stop" button to turn off search indexing in Microsoft's Windows operating system.

• 5

  Click "Apply" and "OK" to confirm the changes and close the dialog box. Exit the "Services" window.