Using Cortana to search your system


  1. Posts : 323
    Windows 10 (2), Win 8.1 (1), Win 7 (1)
       #1

    Using Cortana to search your system


    I find that the Cortana search for files on your computer seems to be very limited. You can search for documents (.txt, .pdf, or Office docs) but it seems no other file types. If I search for .bat files, it gives me .txt., .xlsx, .csv files. You can search for folders, but you might not find it or get a complete list. I am using a local account so I don't know if that has anything to do with it. Anyone else notice this? I have a 3rd party program that does a much better job.

    JohnD
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 42,734
    Win 10 Pro (22H2) (2nd PC is 22H2)
       #2

    Absolutely right. Cortana, in searching files and folders, as I've posted several times recently in the range of questions asked about search is
    a. Limited to what's been indexed by Windows search
    b. does not find executables (exe, bat, cmd....)

    It's also rather inelegant to configure to only do such a search.

    Recommendations (freeware):
    Ultrasearch
    Everything (Void tools)
    Locate32

    Instant results, very fast index of all disks/partitions.
      My Computers


  3. Posts : 323
    Windows 10 (2), Win 8.1 (1), Win 7 (1)
    Thread Starter
       #3

    Thanks dalchina,

    I have installed Ultrasearch. It is excellent. It even beats File Explorer's search.

    JohnD
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 42,734
    Win 10 Pro (22H2) (2nd PC is 22H2)
       #4

    ...another convert! The only thing better about Windows indexed search is it can be configured to index content of some file types.
      My Computers


 

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