Is there a log file of Windows (file) Explorer searches?


  1. Posts : 2
    Windows 7 Business
       #1

    Is there a log file of Windows (file) Explorer searches?


    Long story short--I was having a search issue where Windows 7 search was not locating files which I knew existed. The reason for the search was to identify duplicates of the file and insure I was using the latest version.

    I got no results doing a search of C: and subdirectories.

    Searched the internet for solutions and found information on rebuilding the index and few other potentially helpful tips.

    I rebuilt the index and rebooted the computer. Entered the search terms and still no luck.

    After the reboot and a lot of head scratching, I realized I had a typo in the search term. I wanted to check and see if my earlier failed searches were just user error or the search was broken and the various actions actually fixed it.

    I know Windows saves the search history (RECENT SEARCHES), but no idea if it has a log of searches over time. I have not been able to find such a log.

    Searching the internet, I find numerous references to clearing the search history and/or turning it off, but nothing about viewing it. Those descriptions don't seem to point to the actual log that would be cleared.

    Greatly appreciate any insight.

    PS: I lied--this was not short.
    Last edited by txmxer; 30 Aug 2018 at 11:35. Reason: correction
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 3,615
    Win 10 x64, Linux Lite, Win 7 x64, BlackArch, & Kali
       #2

    Hi txmxer,

    Welcome to SevenForums!

    I don't believe there is a log of your searches from the searchbox or from IE window.

    If you wish to locate duplicate files, CCleaner is an excellent choice.
    How do I use CCleaner’s Duplicate File Finder? – Piriform Support
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 6,021
    Win 7 HP SP1 64-bit Vista HB SP2 32-bit Linux Mint 18.3
       #3

    Hi txmxer,

    Snick said:
    If you wish to locate duplicate files, CCleaner is an excellent choice.
    How do I use CCleaner’s Duplicate File Finder? – Piriform Support
    I have used this on many occasions, it works brilliantly!

    I hope this helps!
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 2
    Windows 7 Business
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Thanks for the replies. I do have CCleaner and it's a great program.

    I assume there is a record of the searches somewhere mainly because there is the "recent files" log that pops up. In Windows 7, I think it's the 3 most recent searches and in Windows 10, I think it is 7(?).

    Anyway, this has to be a record somewhere. If you click on the search box even after rebooting, you will see these values. It could only retain the last 3 values, but I doubt it. We wouldn't need CCleaner if Windows was big on wiping out temp files and history logs.

    At this point, it's just a curiosity. Hopefully we will get an answer at some point.
      My Computer


 

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