For example, searching for the phrase AICPA using the Windows search tool returned 7,876 files (because the phrase AICPA occurred in either the file name, file path, or contents 7,876 times) whereas searching for the phrase AICPA using Everything returned only 337 files (because the phrase AICPA occurred in the file name only 337 times). That's because, unlike Windows's index search, Everything does not search file content, making it easy to search file names only. I sometimes use this tool instead of the Windows index search tool when I know at least part of the file name I'm seeking.
The Everything search tool: As mentioned in my August 2013 Technology Q&A item " Everything," I also use a free search utility from Voidtools ( ) called Everything, which enables me to search my computer files by name, type, size, date, and other properties. This way, my data are well backed up locally, off- site, and online.Ģ. This approach not only provides an extra backup, it also enables me to travel seamlessly from one office to the next without having to transfer data files each trip. I also use my annual folder approach to continuously sync the data files on my Atlanta computer to my satellite office computer on Jekyll Island, Ga., using GoToMyPC. This annual folder approach allows me to use an online backup service (Microsoft OneDrive in my case) to more easily back up my current- year data folder automatically (my older data files are manually archived off- site each year end). I tried this on my computer, and in about one-fifth of a second, the search tool returned a list of 1,406 files containing the phrase IRR, as pictured below. For example, if you are looking for a file that contains an IRR calculation, but you can't remember the file name or the year you created that file, you can simply search for the phrase IRR. Windows's index searching: As discussed in my February 2011 Technology Q&A item " Say Goodbye to Wimpy Searches," Windows includes the ability to search files almost instantly based on the file's name, path, and contents. For this reason, a better option might be to employ one or more of today's advanced index search tools - two of which are described below.ġ. However, while adopting a clever new file- naming convention might help you moving forward, it won't do anything to make your previous tens of thousands (or hundreds of thousands) of files easier to find. Finding a specific file on your computer can be a daunting task, so I understand your desire to address this problem. Can you recommend a file- naming strategy that would make files easier to find on my computer - not just for me, but for others in my office in case I get hit by a bus?Ī.
In Windows Settings, select Update & Security > Troubleshoot.To use the troubleshooter, follow these steps: Use the Windows Search and Indexing troubleshooter to try to fix any problems that may arise. Learn more about Search indexing in Windows 10.
Your PC automatically indexes content to deliver faster search results. Run the Search and Indexing troubleshooter
Install any available updates, and then restart your computer if the updates require it.įor more information, see Update Windows 10.
To manage your options and see any available updates, select the Start button, and then go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.
Windows 10 lets you choose when and how to get the latest updates to keep your device running smoothly and securely.
Follow the steps below if your issue is still not resolved.Īpplies to: Windows 10 - all editions Original KB number: 4520146 Check for updates View your troubleshooter history under Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > View History. This troubleshooter will reset Windows Search back to the default experience. If you're running Windows Update (version 1903) or later versions and Windows can detect a problem, we'll run the Search troubleshooter automatically. If Windows Search is unresponsive or the search results don't appear as expected, try any of the following solutions in this article.