Method 1:
Go to Start>> Run. Type in:
regsvr32 /i %systemroot%\srchasst\srchui.dll [Enter] or Click OK
-OR-
regsvr32 jscript.dll [Enter] or Click OK
If the above did not return Search functionality, then please try the following.
Method 2: (Have your Windows XP CD Available)
1. Logon as Administrator.
2. Go to Start>> Run. Type in:
%systemroot%\inf [Enter] or Click OK.
3. Locate the Srchasst.inf file by going to; Start>> Control Panel>> C:/>> Windows>> INF Folder>> srchasst file.
4. Right-click the Srchasst.inf file, and then click Install. This reinstalls the Search Companion files.
Note: When you're prompted for the system files, insert your Windows XP CD.