Windows 11 users can find lost files with simple tricks. Check here.
Nothing can be more annoying than losing an important file on your computer, especially when you need it the most. Whether you’re upgrading from Windows 10 to 11 or you’ve recently cleaned up your cluttered desktop, chances are you’ve lost an important file in the folder layers. In such cases, Windows 11’s search feature is a handy tool that has become quite powerful over the years and can help you locate lost files. How to properly use Windows 11’s search feature to save time and find your files quickly.
TIPS for Windows 11 search function
Clean up your Windows search
You must have noticed that Windows Search brings up a large image from the Bing database, as well as a few other galleries to browse, or maybe some random games or videos to check out. If you want to avoid this spam content, just go to privacy and security options on your laptop and then check search permissions. Here, simply uncheck the “Show search highlights” option. This will exclude spam content and show more relevant options.
You need to broaden your search horizons
Did you know that Windows Search only indexes four locations by default – Documents, Pictures, Music and the Desktop? To avoid that:
- In the search box on the taskbar, type indexing, and then select Indexing Options. Select the Advanced button to see more options, then select the Search and Indexing Troubleshooting link and follow the steps.
- Some files may not be visible. In File Explorer, select View > Show > Hidden Items. Then try to search for your files again.
- Use the asterisk to search for all files of a specific type
- . For example, to search for all Word documents, search for *.doc. For music files, look for *.mp3.
Some of your files may have been moved when you upgraded to Windows 11. To check the location of the found files, press and hold (or right-click) the file and select Open file location. Copy any files you want to move to another location.
