A computing device including a host device (HD) is in communication with a local storage device (LSD), wherein the LSD includes a memory array. A search index is generated with respect to data stored in the memory array of the LSD. By the LSD without involvement of the HD, the index data is generated with respect to the data stored in the memory array of the LSD. By the LSD, the generated index data is stored on the LSD as at least a part of the search index. The index may include data that can be used to respond to search queries with respect to data of the LSD. The queries may be originated from a HD or from within the LSD. The use of the index is not limited to responding to search queries. For example, the index may be used for content screening.