File properties: any way to get this feature back like it was in XP?

Hi. I have an issue with the new way in which Windows 7 handles file metadata or, rather, doesn't. I have searched the forums, I have scoured the internet, I have over twenty browser tabs open that have only increased since I installed Windows 7 a couple of weeks ago and started looking for a solution. This is something I absolutely need and I can't stop looking until I find it, nor can I close my tabs since they are all searches worded in different ways leading to this and that page or message board which, so far, have been dead ends, but perhaps will lead to a solution somewhere down the road. I'm telling you all of these details to let you know how important it is to me and what a hindrance it's becoming.

When I installed Windows 7, I discovered that it does not display or allow the editing of file properties but for a few scant types of files. I know that .jpg shows more information in the property details than .txt, for instance. However, more to the point, I have literally tens of thousands of program-specific files with nondescript filenames and obscure extensions. I used to go into file properties and add the metadata for them such as Title, Author, Category and Comments, but now I can't add, edit or view any of it, nor can I even identify what the files even are.

This was a feature of XP I used constantly and the filenames in question were automatically generated as randomized strings of alphanumeric characters. To be sure I would never end up with duplicates, I left the filenames alone and simply edited Title (entering the item's name there), Category and Comments. When I was using XP, it was most convenient not to mess with the filenames and go about it this way, instead. Another really good use for this was, when I downloaded files or programs, I would go into the file summary and paste the U.R.L. into the Comments box and whatever other pertinent information I might want to include. That helped me many times when I had to go back in a pinch and find where I'd got it from or solve problems.

When I "upgraded" to Windows 7, I had no idea I would be losing a feature I depended on so greatly. I absolutely have no idea what other option would work for me than to find some kind of fix or program to handle my files the way XP used to.

The small bit of information I can offer which might be pertinent is that I believe the files whose properties can no longer be viewed/edited as they used to be are stored in NTFS. Also, I read something about it being possible to make an ifilter for this? That bit went quite over my head, though.

Would anybody be able to direct me to anything that would fix this issue for me or design a new operating system for me according to my exact specifications, please? Thank you very much for your time.