FIX: Search box does not display search results correctly in Windows 7

December 28th, 2009 . Filed under: Tips. Tags: HotFix, Search

Microsoft has released a hotfix to resolve an issue, where the Search programs and files box may not be displaying the search results correctly in Windows 7 and in Windows 2008 R2.

On a computer that is running Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2, you try to search for an item on the computer by using the Search programs and files box.

However, the search results are not displayed correctly. Only the category headings of the categorized search results are displayed, such as Programs, Control Panel, and Documents.

Moreover, if you click the displayed category headings, nothing happens.

To resolve this issue:

1. Press the Windows logo key + R on your keyboard.

2. In the Run box, type regedit and then press ENTER. If you are prompted for an administrator password or for confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

3. Locate the following registry subkey:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderTypes\{ef87b4cb-f2ce-4785-8658-4ca6c63e38c6}

4. Right-click this subkey, and then select Delete.

5. Restart the computer.

Alternatively, you can also request for and download Fix296173 and apply it. More on this at KB977380.

Thanks @WindowsValley.

You may also want to check out First MVP Fix It : Troubleshooting Search & Indexing Errors.