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

[txmxer]

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.

 

[Snick]

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

 

[Paul Black]

Hi txmxer,

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!

 

[txmxer]

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.