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How can I make my Windows 11 PC search for content within files/documents?

Anonymous
2023-10-24T03:35:57+00:00

Hello,

When I had my Windows 10 computer, I saved on it an MS Word Document, basically a comprehensive list of contacts and their phone numbers. Then, if ever I received a phone call while I was at my PC and the caller ID was a number I did not recognize, while the phone was still ringing I could type the number into my Windows 10 task bar Search box and if my MS Word document of contacts immediately showed up on the search results, I knew the call was from someone I know and I would answer the call. I didn't even have to open the document to know the calling phone number was in the document. The point is that Windows 10 task bar Search box would search file contents and do it lightning fast.

However, with Windows 11, my task bar Search box searches only for filenames or folder names, not text content in the documents. This really is a setback in functionality.

Is there a way to make my Windows 11 task bar Search box search for text within documents like Windows 10 did?

I have looked online and some non-Microsoft recommendations seem weird or don't apply to what I see in my Settings so I am unwilling to experiment using their advice.

Again, I am focusing on the task bar Search box method of searching.

I found a thread from 2022 where people are asserting that this lesser functionality than what Windows 10 had is a known thing and, if still unresolved, then what is currently being done about it?

Thank you.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage

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  1. Anonymous
    2023-10-25T00:13:54+00:00

    I saw that you reported that this did not resolve your problem. What I can advise you is to write in the Windows feedback hub to make the suggestion to reinstate this function.

    In the desktop, press Windows + F keys and the feedback hub will open. You're going to have better luck someone from Microsoft seeing your request than here.

    I hope this will help you.

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  2. Anonymous
    2023-10-25T00:47:55+00:00

    I saw that you reported that this did not resolve your problem. What I can advise you is to write in the Windows feedback hub to make the suggestion to reinstate this function.
    In the desktop, press Windows + F keys and the feedback hub will open. You're going to have better luck someone from Microsoft seeing your request than here.

    I hope this will help you.

    I opened that feedback hub and operated it as best as I could, although to get the Submit key to highlight for clicking on it I had select from items that did not apply. Maybe they will respond. Who knows.

    Thank you.

    2 people found this answer helpful.
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  3. Anonymous
    2023-10-24T04:15:24+00:00

    Hello , sorry about your problems. My name is Marco and I will do my best to help you.

    Indeed, this function no longer seems to work under Windows 11, however there are other alternatives.

    It is a powerful tool that allows you to search for files containing certain text in any folder or directory on Windows 11. You can even search an entire drive for files containing certain text that you want to search.

    https://sourceforge.net/projects/grepwin/

    _________________________________________________

    Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

    2 people found this answer helpful.
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  4. Anonymous
    2023-10-25T00:55:07+00:00

    I hope for you!

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