Introduction
The search bar is a critical component of Windows, allowing users to quickly find files, settings, and applications. However, changing the system font through registry code can sometimes cause the search bar to stop working. If you've encountered this issue, don't worry. Here's a step-by-step guide to resolve it.
The code that changes to new font
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Fonts] "Segoe UI (TrueType)"="" "Segoe UI Bold (TrueType)"="" "Segoe UI Bold Italic (TrueType)"="" "Segoe UI Italic (TrueType)"="" "Segoe UI Light (TrueType)"="" "Segoe UI Semibold (TrueType)"="" "Segoe UI Symbol (TrueType)"="" [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\FontSubstitutes] "Segoe UI"="NEW-FONT"
For example, the font can be Comic Sans MS or Comic Sans MS Bold as I have applied to my PC for better vision.
Understanding the Problem
Changing system fonts via registry modifications can have unintended side effects. One common issue is the search bar becoming unresponsive. This happens because the changes might interfere with system files or services related to the search functionality.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
Restarting the Computer
The first step in troubleshooting is often the simplest: restart your computer. This can help reset system processes and apply changes properly.
Why Restarting Can Help
Restarting your PC refreshes the system, clears temporary files, and can resolve minor glitches caused by registry changes.
Running System File Checker (SFC)
What is SFC?
Steps to Run SFC
1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type `sfc /scannow` and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete. This might take some time.
Interpreting SFC Results
- If SFC finds and repairs corrupted files, it will display a message indicating the repairs.
- If no issues are found, SFC will report that no integrity violations were detected.
Using DISM Restore Health Command
Introduction to DISM
The Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) is another powerful utility that can fix deeper system issues. It repairs the Windows image and can resolve problems that SFC cannot.
Steps to Run DISM
1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth` and press Enter.
3. Allow the process to complete, which might take a while.
Understanding DISM Results
DISM will attempt to repair the Windows image. Once completed, it will report the status of the operation.
Combining SFC and DISM for Better Results
Running SFC and DISM Multiple Times
Sometimes, a single scan isn't enough. Running SFC and DISM multiple times can catch and repair more issues.
Why Repeated Scans Can Be Effective
Repeated scans can ensure all issues are identified and fixed, especially if the initial scans miss some corrupted files.
Restarting the Search Service
Using Services.msc
If the search bar is still not working, restarting the search service can help.
Steps to Restart the Search Service
1. Press `Win + R` to open the Run dialog.
2. Type `services.msc` and press Enter.
3. Find "Windows Search" in the list.
4. Right-click it and select "Restart."
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Verifying the Service Status
Ensure the status is set to "Running." If not, try restarting it again or setting it to start automatically.
If the problem still persists then we need to reapply the new font by changing to the original font and then again to the new font.
Reverting to Default Font Settings
Writing the Registry Code to Revert Font
If the problem persists, reverting to the default font might be necessary.
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Fonts] "Segoe UI (TrueType)"="segoeui.ttf"
Steps to Apply the Default Font
1. Open NotePad and Save the above code as a `.reg` file.
2. Double-click the file to merge it into the registry.
3. Restart your computer.
Importance of Restarting the PC
Restarting ensures that the changes take effect properly and that any related services are reset.
Reapplying the Desired Font
Changing Font via Registry Code Again
After reverting to the default font and confirming that the search bar works, you can try applying your desired font again.
Steps to Ensure Proper Application
1. Use the appropriate registry code for your desired font.
2. Save and merge the `.reg` file.
3. Restart your computer.
Restarting and Verifying Change
Ensure to run SFC and DISM after applying the new font to fix any potential issues.
Patience and High RAM Usage
Waiting for the System to Adjust
Sometimes, the system needs time to adjust to the changes. High RAM usage tasks can expedite this process.
Tasks That Use Lots of RAM
Running memory-intensive applications like video editors, games, or large datasets can help.
Why This Method Can Be Effective
Heavy RAM usage forces the system to reallocate resources and can sometimes resolve lingering issues.
Final Steps and Verification
Running DISM Again
As a final step, run DISM once more to ensure all system files are intact.
Final Checks on the Search Bar Functionality
Verify that the search bar works correctly. If not, consider repeating the steps or seeking professional help.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting a non-functional search bar after changing the font through the registry can be complex, but methodical steps can help. Restarting, running SFC and DISM, and carefully managing font changes can resolve the issue. Patience and persistence are key.
FAQs
1. What if the search bar still doesn't work after following all the steps?
If the search bar is still unresponsive, consider seeking professional technical support or reverting all recent changes.
2. Can changing system fonts cause other issues?
Yes, altering system fonts via registry edits can lead to various system issues, including UI glitches and unresponsive features.
3. How often should I run SFC and DISM?
Running SFC and DISM once a month can help maintain system integrity, especially after major updates or changes.
4. Is it safe to modify the registry?
Modifying the registry is safe if done correctly. Always back up the registry before making any changes to avoid potential problems.
5. What if I accidentally delete a registry entry?
If a registry entry is deleted accidentally, restore the registry from a backup or use System Restore to revert to a previous state.