Performing an Instant Search

WINV-4.4.3, WINV-4.4.4

You can also find files and programs using the Search box at the bottom of the Start menu and at the top of every Explorer window. The Search box (New!) filters out items that don’t match the text you type. The search includes text in the file name, text in the file, tags (a custom file property), and other file properties. The search locates files and programs stored anywhere in indexed locations, which includes personal folders, e-mail, offline files, and Web sites in the History list for your Web browser.

Find a File or Program Using the Search Box on the Start Menu

Click the Start button.

Click in the Search box.

Type a word or part of a word.

As you type, programs and files that match your text appear on the Start menu. You don’t have to press Enter.

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Trouble?:

In the Search box, you must press Enter to start a search for files in non-indexed locations.

Did You Know? You can display search properties. Right-click the heading in an Explorer window that you want to see properties for, and then click More.

Find a File or Folder Using the Search Box From a Folder

Click the Start button, and then open the Explorer window where you want to start looking, such as Documents, Pictures, or Music.

Click in the Search box.

Type a word or part of a word.

As you type, programs and files that match your text appear on the Start menu. You don’t have to press Enter.

[View full size image]

Trouble?:

In the Search box, you must press Enter to start a search for files in non-indexed locations.

Did You Know? You can use wildcards to expand a search. Use the * (asterisk) wildcard symbol in a file name when you’re unsure of the entire name. For example, type S*rs to find all files beginning with “S” and ending with “rs,” such as Stars and Sports cars.