Windows 11 Starts Automatically Indexing Frequently Used Folders
Microsoft has started rolling out an update for Windows 11 that automatically adds frequently used folders to the operating system's search index. The feature, which debuted with the Aug. 27 KB5120998 preview update, puts files from those locations into later search results.
The update applies to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2, and its availability can vary between eligible devices due to Microsoft's gradual rollout process. This means that installing the update does not guarantee that every PC will receive each new feature immediately.
Users who receive the automatic indexing option can find it under Settings > Privacy & security > Search, where they can switch it on or off. Turning the option off does not disable Windows Search indexing, and existing indexed locations remain available.