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

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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

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-08-19T09:07:43+00:00

    I focused on the W7-issue. Meanwhile I tried FreeCommander (freeware, interface is a bit of an overkill) and strangely enough this finds files (without having indexed)  that Explorer doesn't find. 

    I've heard about Ransack, maybe I'll give it a try.

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  2. Anonymous
    2011-08-25T00:22:17+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.

    this is rediculous why is it so difficult to search file contents in windows 7??? no we shouldn't have to go find and install some 3rd party add on or program to make this work.

    a txt document anywhere on the local disk's content's should be searchable whether or not its been indexed!! If the computer has to do a manual full disk search of every file on the hard drive it should be possible without having to search the internet for fixes, checking a dozen check boxes, or using some 3rd part solution.

    Whats going on MS?!!?!?

    why!!?!?

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  3. Anonymous
    2011-08-25T00:23:54+00:00

    no microsoft needs to fix this now!! we dont need some 3rd party software! MS fix this mess!!!

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  4. Anonymous
    2011-08-25T12:44:31+00:00

    @m_south_a and others

    Microsoft really needs to fix the search to make it reliable.

    1 tip that made it a little better is adding you full c:\ drive to the indexoptions and replace the complete index to a new location(other drive letter)

    In the mean time we have to use alternatives like:

    - FileLocator or

    • AstroGrep(if you don't have admin rights on your pc)

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