Windows search always fails

Yes, it's all about taking the question and request in context. I, too, would look for some other software if I thought mine didn't have the abilities I needed to do something. However, the OP is asking for a third party solution because they are having issues with the built-in search finding their files, causing them to think it is not able to perform such simple tasks. The point here is that the built-in search should have no problems finding these files, so there is obviously another issue going on. Suggesting third party apps for this doesn't fix the issue here, rather provides a workaround that doesn't address the problem with the OP's computer. If we follow the vein of logic of just adding another piece of software to fix this problem, that would be akin to the air filter on your car being clogged with a piece of paper and you boring a hole in the side of intake hose and running another filter to get it to work rather than resolving the issue by removing the paper blocking the filter. There's no need to add superfluous parts or software to something when the answer can be as simple as using/fixing what you already have. But, you can only lead a horse to water. Somehow this has turned into a thread about why you should or shouldn't use a third party app here when the OP hasn't even clarified on the issue at hand.

The built-in tool works.

Whether a user wants to spend the time to ascend the learning curve to take advantage of its capabilities is another question entirely.

I chose not to spend the time and found another solution that required no ascent.

ignatzatsonic said:

The built-in tool works.

Whether a user wants to spend the time to ascend the learning curve to take advantage of its capabilities is another question entirely.

I chose not to spend the time and found another solution that required no ascent.

The built-in tool works beautifully for me. Whether looking for files by filename, or looking for specific content in indexed folders.

I agree, there's always a learning curve. Might as well learn the stuff that comes with your OS than some third-party thing. I notice that a lot of times around here - the first reply to how to make something work is often a plug for a third-party utility or something.

I agree with the OP that W7 search is abysmal.
It is possible that I don't understand how W7 search works, but the help function sheds very little light.
The boolean functions in W7 are very limited. Agent Ransack is better, but it's not perfect either.
One of the biggest problems in W7 is that I usually get way too many results. In XP, I can search for a folder or a certain type of item. If I only want .docs or only .jpgs or only folders or files with arca in the file name, or arca in the internal text, I can do that. Not in W7.
If I'm wrong about that, I'm eager to learn. I've tried, but most of what I get is tripe about how good W7 search is, but little in the way details.

Search in Windows 7

Advanced search techniques

Learn How to Use Windows 7′s Advanced Search Operators - How-To Geek

Using Advanced Query Syntax To Find Files in Windows 7 - Alan's World of IT - Site Home - TechNet Blogs

Mastering Windows Search using Advanced Query Syntax

FliGi7 said:

I don't know anything about Agent Ransack nor have I been talking about it. You're the only person comparing the two right now so you'll have to disagree with your own creation of comparison. I'm talking about Windows 7 search being able to find files in a directory without any problems, just as the OP was asking. The only reason we began talking about other software is because you suggested unnecessary software for this issue and stated fallacies about features that Win7 search didn't have, when in fact it does. If you'd like to create another thread to tout whatever third party search app you like over the built-in search, then please feel free, but this thread isn't about that.

No need to get heavy handed. I just tried to provide a meaningful post to help the OP with an alternative search program.

Without 3rd party utilities you're only scratching the surface of what your computer can do, e.g. Process Explorer instead of Task Manager, Notepad++ instead of Notepad etc.

Agent Ransack is a good tip if Windows Search isn't doing what you want.

I've been using Agent Ransack/File Locator Lite for a couple of years now.
I know how Windows Search works so it's not functional ignorance that stops me using it.
Some like the Windows Imaging capability, some hate it.
Use what utility suits you.

Kari said:

Windows Search 3 - File Locator 0

How do you get Windows Search to find all email addresses in a group of files?