Windows 11 Rolls Out Automatic Folder Indexing Feature

Microsoft has quietly rolled out an update for Windows 11 that automatically indexes frequently used folders in the search function. The feature, which debuted on August 27 with the KB5120998 preview update, adds a toggle under Settings, Privacy & Security, and Search to control this new behavior.

The automatic indexing option changes how extra locations enter the index, allowing a folder that a user accesses frequently to become an indexed location without manually selecting it through existing controls. Microsoft has not published the criteria used to classify a folder as frequently used, leaving users unsure of what triggers this action.

Users who receive the update can manage the automatic indexing option by locating 'Automatically find additional relevant locations' under Settings and toggling it on or off. This does not disable Windows Search indexing entirely, but existing indexed locations remain available for users to control through regular indexing settings.