How to Resolve ERROR_NO_MORE_SEARCH_HANDLES (0x71) Issue

If you’re conducting a search on your computer or within an application, you might encounter the ERROR_NO_MORE_SEARCH_HANDLES error, which indicates that no more internal file identifiers are available.

This error typically arises during search queries in File Explorer, especially when looking for special characters or when using applications that conduct extensive file or resource searches. You may notice your system lagging or the application becoming unresponsive or crashing.

The ERROR_NO_MORE_SEARCH_HANDLES error can be triggered by having too many background processes running, with insufficient system resources to manage the load. Additionally, if it is application-specific, it may relate to compatibility issues or memory management problems.

How do I resolve the ERROR_NO_MORE_SEARCH_HANDLES?

1. Terminate unnecessary processes

1. Press the Windows key, type Task Manager in the search bar, and click on Open.
2. Go to the Processes tab and identify any unnecessary processes.
3. Right-click on the unwanted process and select End task.
4. Repeat this process until only essential tasks remain.

If you’re unsure about whether a process is critical, look up the process ID.

2. Clean up your disk

2.1 Run a disk scan

1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
2. Navigate to the drive where the problematic application resides (usually labeled Windows (C)). Right-click the drive and select Properties.
3. Select the Tools tab and click the Check button.
4. Then, click on Scan drive.
5. The scan will begin, and follow any prompts provided.

2.2 Execute a Disk Cleanup

1. Press Windows + E to launch File Explorer.
2. Select This PC.
3. Right-click the C: drive, and from the drop-down menu, choose Properties.
4. Under the General tab, click on Disk Cleanup to launch the application.
5. Select the files you wish to delete by checking the corresponding boxes, then click OK.

3. Troubleshoot Search issues

3.1 Utilize the Search and Indexing troubleshooter

1. Press the Windows key and choose Settings.
2. Select System and click on Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Other troubleshooters.
4. Find the Search and Indexing troubleshooter and click the Run button next to it.

Running the troubleshooter may identify any issues affecting search speed and restore normal operation.

3.2 Restart the Search service

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run command.
2. Input services.msc into the dialog box and hit Enter .
3. Find Windows Search, right-click on it, and select Properties.
4. In the Startup type section, choose Automatic from the drop-down menu, and click Start.
5. Click Apply, then OK to save the changes.
6. Restart your computer and check if the problem continues.

Restarting the service effectively resets the search process, resolving any temporary issues.

3.3 Rebuild the search index

1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel in the search bar, and click Open.
2. Search for Indexing Options in the Control Panel search bar and click to open.
3. In the Indexing Options dialog box, select Advanced.
4. Click Rebuild under Troubleshooting in the Advanced Options dialog that appears.
5. Press OK to confirm rebuilding the index. Please note, this process may take some time, so ensure you don’t have urgent tasks at hand.

Rebuilding the search index can eliminate potential cache corruption and restart the system’s search capabilities for improved efficiency.

4. Scan for viruses

1. Press the Windows key, type Windows Security, and click Open.
2. Select Virus & threat protection.
3. Then, click on Quick scan under Current threats.
4. If no threats are detected, perform a full scan by clicking on Scan options beneath Quick scan.
5. Select Full scan, then click Scan now for a comprehensive system scan.
6. Wait for the process to finish, then restart your computer.

5. Execute the Performance and Maintenance troubleshooter

1. Press Windows + R to access the Run dialog.
2. Type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open an elevated Command Prompt.
3. Input the following command below and hit Enter to run the Performance troubleshooter: msdt.exe /id PerformanceDiagnostic
4. Input the following command below and hit Enter to run the Maintenance troubleshooter: msdt.exe /id MaintenanceDiagnostic
5. Click on Advanced.
6. Check the box for Apply repairs automatically and click Next.
7. Follow any additional prompts and allow the repair process to finish. Afterward, try executing the search query again to see if the ERROR_NO_MORE_SEARCH_HANDLES persists.

Additional tips to avoid such errors

• Keep your system updated – Ensure your operating system, drivers, and applications are up-to-date to prevent compatibility issues.
• Monitor system resources – Utilize resource monitoring tools to identify applications that consume excessive system resources and limit their usage. You can also allocate more resources to crucial programs.
• Optimize your device – Speed up Windows 11 for enhanced performance and ensure your operating system utilizes available RAM effectively.
• Eliminate bloatware – Regularly performing Disk Cleanup and disk defragmentation will help maintain your drive and prevent applications from competing for resources.
• Upgrade system resources – Where feasible, enhance your virtual memory, CPU, and RAM for superior performance.

Hopefully, one of the aforementioned solutions has successfully resolved the ERROR_NO_MORE_SEARCH_HANDLES issue.

We invite you to share any additional recommendations in the comments section below.

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