How to Search Local Files with Windows 11 Copilot
You can now search your local files directly using Windows 11 Copilot.
Windows 11 Copilot acts as your PC’s intelligent assistant, allowing you to find files stored on your computer using simple, spoken, or typed commands.
This powerful capability became available starting with Copilot build 1.25034.133.0, transforming how you interact with your digital documents.
Instead of navigating complex folder structures, you simply ask Copilot to find what you need, whether it’s a specific document name or even content within a file.
Open Copilot, navigate to Settings, and enable “File search” and “File read” permissions. Then, simply type a natural language query describing the file you need into the Copilot chat window.
Why Use Copilot to Search Files?
Copilot’s file search is all about natural language. You can type as if you’re talking to a person, describing what you need instead of trying to remember exact file names. It understands tons of file types, like .png, .jpeg, .svg, .pdf, .docx, .xlsx, .csv, .json, and .txt files.
What Permissions Do You Need?
Before you can search files with Copilot, you’ll need to enable a couple of permissions. Go to Copilot Settings and turn on ‘File search’ and ‘File read’.
How to Enable File Search in Copilot
- Open the Copilot app on your Windows 11 computer.
- Click on the Settings button in the app.
- Look for the Permission settings section.
- Enable File search by toggling it on.
- Enable File read by toggling it on.
You can let Windows 11 Copilot search your local files by turning on a couple of settings in the app.
How to Search Files Using Copilot
Once you enable ‘File search’ and ‘File read’ permissions, you can start searching. Use Copilot as you normally would. Type what you’re looking for in natural language. For example, you might type “Find my budget spreadsheet from last month” or “Show me all PDFs about project planning.”
Summary
Windows 11 Copilot’s file search makes finding your documents easy by letting you ask for files using normal words, and it works with lots of different file types.
- Natural Language Search: You can describe files using everyday words instead of remembering exact names.
- Wide File Format Support: The feature works with images, documents, spreadsheets, and many other file types.
- Easy Setup: Enabling file search takes just a few clicks in Copilot Settings.
- Saves Time: Finding files quickly means you spend less time searching and more time working.
- AI-Powered: The AI understands what you want, giving you more accurate results.
By using Copilot’s file search, you can work faster and more efficiently in Windows 11.
Can Copilot search files on my computer?
You can search for people, files, images, messages, SharePoint sites, and more.
How do I turn off Copilot search in 🪟 Windows 11?
To turn off Copilot search, you can use the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc). Navigate through User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Copilot and select ‘Turn off Windows Copilot’. If you don’t have Group Policy Editor, you can also disable it using the Registry Editor.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!