In the case of Avast at least, once you switch the shields back on, the Start menu search may continue working as it should. Under the Hardware and Sound item, click Configure a device. In the Search box in Control Panel, type troubleshooter, and then click Troubleshooting. Residents are advised to not place leaves in piles or around obstructions such. Type control in the Run dialog box, then press Enter. Starting locations alternate each year this year crew one will start at. You could just try disabling your Avast shields temporarily, which should get the Start menu search back. In Windows 7 and 8.1, to open the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter, follow these steps: Press the Windows logo key + R to open the Run dialog box. ( Windows Defender itself has become a viable, secure option in recent years.) Avast is one culprit, so try uninstalling that if you have it, then find an alternative if need be. To be clear, we’re not suggesting here that you should disable and completely remove all third-party antivirus software from your device, but based on feedback here and across the Internet, certain programs cause Windows Search to malfunction. Disable/Restart Third-Party Antivirus, Enable Windows Firewall In addition, running the SFC utility in Windows 10 Safe Mode could solve the problem for you, so that’s worth a shot if doing it in regular Windows 10 fails.
Give that the Start menu search is a system process, any errors in it should be detected by using the SFC utility. This will scan your system files for any errors and corruptions and automatically attempt to fix them.