How to Search for Files in Windows 11
File search in Windows 11 scans your hard drive for documents, photos, and videos by name, file type, or the text stored inside them. You can open this tool instantly by pressing Win+S on your keyboard or clicking the search box on the taskbar .
Windows 11 also lets you use specific filters in the File Explorer search bar , such as typing date:last tuesday to find files you worked on that day or searching by file size.
Search for files using the Taskbar ’s search bar for quick PC and web results, or open File Explorer and type your query into the top-right search box for local file searches. You can find files by name, content, or date.
Using the Taskbar Search
Using the Taskbar search box is the fastest way to search files Windows 11 on your computer. You just click the magnifying glass icon on your taskbar and type what you need. Windows checks your local folders, cloud storage, and the web at the same time to show matching results instantly.
- Click the Search icon on your Taskbar .
- Type the name of your document or a keyword.
- Look at the Best match section to see your results.
Click the Search icon on your Taskbar . Type the name of your document or a keyword, then check the Best match section for your results.
This feature also lets you find settings or apps. Type what you need, and Windows shows the most relevant items.
Searching in File Explorer
Searching in File Explorer lets you look for files in Windows 11 within specific folders instead of scanning your whole PC. You open File Explorer, pick a folder like Documents or This PC, and type your search into the box in the top right corner to find exact matches.
- Open File Explorer from your Taskbar or by right-clicking the Start button.
- Choose a specific folder on the left side, such as Documents or This PC.
- Type your keyword in the search box located in the top right corner of the window.
Open File Explorer from your Taskbar or by right-clicking the Start button. Choose a specific folder on the left side, such as Documents or This PC.
For more advanced searches, power users can turn to the Command Prompt (a text-based interface), which requires administrator privileges (an account type that can make system-wide changes) to locate files by their exact path.
dir C:\Users\GenericUser\Documents /s /bSummary
Searching for files in Windows 11 is a convenient process. Use the Taskbar for a quick check of your PC and the web. Use File Explorer for a deeper look into your local drives. Keeping your files organized helps these search tools work even better for you.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
I am looking for documents that I have saved on this computer. For some reason Windows 11 was downloaded without my knowledge or request. The documents that I have saved are EXTREMELY important to me. PLEASE explain (in plain English) how I go about getting to my saved folders. I am not tech-know savy and this situation is EXTREMELY frustrating.
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