Mac: Re-index Spotlight
If the search with Spotlight no longer works properly on your Mac, it helps to re-index the database. Here's how:
Re-index Spotlight using the system settings
Spotlight search is not available during indexing, which may take some time. If possible, perform the indexing when you are not working on your Mac.
- Open "Programs" -> "System Settings" -> "Spotlight".
- Click the "Privacy" tab.
- For indexing you now have to add the desired volume or directory. To do this, click on the "+" symbol and select the corresponding object. Then click "Select".
- The object just added must now be removed again: Select it in the Spotlight window and then click on the "-" symbol.
- Close the Spotlight window - indexing will start.
Delete the Spotlight index file and create a new one - quick access via the terminal
A simple terminal command also helps to recreate the entire spotlight database:
- First open a terminal: "Programs" -> "Utilities" -> "Terminal".
- Enter the command "sudo mdutil -E" in the terminal window and press the [Enter] key.
- Confirm the execution of the command with your password.
Read here how to activate the right mouse button on your MacBook.