Windows 7: Search does not find files that it should, directory is indexed, and *.php included on the extension list

Anonymous
2009-11-27T05:51:54+00:00

Windows 7: Search does not find files that it should. I have the directory indexed, and *.php included on the extension list but search does not find files for searches for words that that I know there are files with those words in them.

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments
Answer accepted by question author
Anonymous
2009-11-27T14:10:58+00:00

If you're frustrated with Search (a.k.a. Desktop Search), you are not alone. Click the Start button and type in Search and click on the command "Change how Windows searches". Now click on the Advanced button and select File types tab. Scroll down and locate your file type (in your case **.php)**and make sure that the radio button "Index Properties and File Contents" is selected for the file type.

Come out of the form by clicking the OK button but do not yet close the form where you clicked the Advanced button.

Next, you may need to modify the indexing locations. If the folder wherein your files are located is not known to the search indexing, then search doesn't even bother to look there (a source of frustration for many users). Perhaps your files are on a different disk or partition unbeknown to the indexing engine. Using the expand icon and select/deselect options, make sure that at least the folders of interest are included to the Indexed Locations. Hope this helps.

samc1

Was this answer helpful?

100+ people found this answer helpful.
0 comments

162 additional answers

Sort by: Oldest
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2011-04-09T03:04:45+00:00

    As mentioned before in this thread forget Windows 7  Search and use an alternative.

    I use and cannot praise enough:

    "File Locator Lite"

    also known as

    "Agent Ransack"

     both identical except the business/Corporate world prefer the former name.

    I use it all the time! It's free (can buy the pro version) - download it and try it.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  2. Anonymous
    2011-05-01T11:19:01+00:00

    Regarding disabling WINDOWS SEARCH via program and features - all I know is that the operating system appears to rely on this capability and Microsoft staff are best placed to answer the specifics concerning any consequences. I leave it alone.

    If I understand your question "What's the emoticon for throwing your hands up?". My answer is  frustration - spend an hour reading others frustration in the windows 7 search function and you will begin to understand. I tried ALL the suggested MS fixes to no avail and I have work to do and cannot afford to "stuff around" any longer trying to fix a problem which appears clearly to be in Microsoft's court.

    In my case the indexed search function was totally broken and my decision was easy. But now I doubt that I would trust it to find critical data when using it on a new installation / machine.

    BUT it appears to work for some and all I can say is if it works for you congratulations and good luck.

    I really don't know why MS makes things more difficult.  I have been sitting here for a couple of hours now trying to help someone on W7 to find the Search for Files and Folders way like I'm using it on XP?  NO LUCK!  MS should make things easier not more difficult!!!! and by that wasting time.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  3. Anonymous
    2011-05-01T11:23:49+00:00

    Regarding disabling WINDOWS SEARCH via program and features - all I know is that the operating system appears to rely on this capability and Microsoft staff are best placed to answer the specifics concerning any consequences. I leave it alone.

    If I understand your question "What's the emoticon for throwing your hands up?". My answer is  frustration - spend an hour reading others frustration in the windows 7 search function and you will begin to understand. I tried ALL the suggested MS fixes to no avail and I have work to do and cannot afford to "stuff around" any longer trying to fix a problem which appears clearly to be in Microsoft's court.

    In my case the indexed search function was totally broken and my decision was easy. But now I doubt that I would trust it to find critical data when using it on a new installation / machine.

    BUT it appears to work for some and all I can say is if it works for you congratulations and good luck.

    I really don't know why MS makes things more difficult.  I have been sitting here for a couple of hours now trying to help someone on W7 to find the Search for Files and Folders way like I'm using it on XP?  NO LUCK!  MS should make things easier not more difficult!!!! and by that wasting time. 

     

    All I want to do is search for All files and folders e.g.:  a*.* then sort according to size delete duplicates.  What a mission?  Please send and answer to *** Email address is removed for privacy ***

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments
  4. Anonymous
    2011-05-01T22:56:42+00:00

    My view has been expressed just above. Know when an alternative to a Windows 7 option may be better for you.

    FileLocator Lite (free) - also known as Agent Ransack.

    It's lean fast, reliable, very powerful and a professional piece of software.

    It will do what you want and much more.

    Was this answer helpful?

    0 comments