Outlook search not working


Introduction

If you are not getting any results at all when searching for something in Outlook it may be an indexing issue. If your results come up empty, you will need to rebuild the index.

Rebuilding the index in Outlook

Please note: This solution requires admin rights on your computer. If you are on a managed computer, please contact your local IT support if you experience this issue.

  1. In Outlook 365 click on the File tab.
  2. Click on Options.
    Options sidebar
     
  3. Select Search on the right menu bar, then click on Indexing Options.
    Outlook options window
     
  4. You should now see which locations are being indexed. Click on the Advanced button.
    Indexing options window
     
  5. Once the advanced box has opened, you will see in the Troubleshooting section you have the option to rebuild. Click this option.
  6. Rebuilding will take some time, so make sure to leave your PC running for a while.