XP - Not Full File Search

XP Help File, re: to search for a file or folder may have found my answer as to why ALL my files don't come up on a search:
" (Alert Graphic) Important! "
"If you do not see ALL FILES AND FOLDERS, you have probably changed your default search behavior. "

I am not seeing the option presented in HELP: "Click Change Preferences. Click Change Files and Folders Search Behavior "
HELP continues, "When was it modified?" "Size?" "Advanced Options "
Can someone assist with directions to reset defaults for search?
Thanks in advance.

 

Like you, I'm sadly disappointed with the search feature of XP. It's nowhere near as efficient or sociable as the old Win9x version.

You probably need to make sure the "Search Hidden and System files" box is checked. Where it's located depends on how you have elected to confibure the Search applet. look around, scroll all fields, you'll find it.

I can't guarantee it'll stay checked for next time. I can't guarantee much of anything with this XP search.

I have two physical drives and I can't get it stopped from defaulting to searching both drives every time. Just a big pain.

I finally created a shortcut to a Saved Search that allows searching only the C: drive by default. Jeez, a person shouldn't have to do that.

 

Zeph-I have the option to 'show all files' checked, but as the HELP text informs, I am not getting a full file search because I inadvertently did something to the default settings. I hope I don't have your problem - like Chinese takeout, an hour later, you're hungry again. Peace