Windows 11 File Explorer Search Filter Functionality

Question

In prior versions of File Explorer (e.g. Windows 7) you could easily search files using Filters. In Pictures using Search Filters like "Date Taken" or "Tags" by placing the cursor in the search window and pressing enter. If you chose the Date filter a calendar/date range pop up would facilitate that. More importantly if you selected the Tag option a list of all Tags in my Pictures folders would pop up to choose from. How do you do that in Windows 11? If this advanced filter functionality has been removed, there should at least be some way of getting the list of all the tags I've created in my photo folders under Pictures. I'm hoping ditching my PC and getting a MAC isn't my only option to manage my photos. I'm amazed that Microsoft would move this type of useful functionality. I see even when searching documents the Filter options in File Explorer were Authors, Type, Date Modified and Size - now name only.

Answer 1

Hello DebLSG,

Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

In Windows 11, the File Explorer indeed has undergone some changes compared to previous versions like Windows 7, especially in terms of search and filter functionality. While Windows 11 may not have the exact same filter options as in Windows 7's Pictures library, such as "Date Taken" or "Tags" popping up as a list when using the search filter, there are still ways to search and manage your photos effectively.

Searching for Files with Filters in Windows 11

1. Basic Search:
   • You can start a search by typing keywords into the search bar in File Explorer.
   • The search results will display files and folders that match your query.
2. Advanced Search Options:
   • While Windows 11 may not have the same pop-up filters as Windows 7, you can still use advanced search options by typing specific search operators in the search bar. For example, you can use "date:" followed by a date range to search for files by modification date.
   • You can also use other properties like "type:", "size:", and even "author:" (for documents) to narrow down your search results.

Managing Tags in Windows 11

• Viewing and Managing Tags:
  • Windows 11 doesn't have a built-in way to view all tags in a pop-up list as in Windows 7. However, if you have previously tagged your photos, you can still search for them using the tag names in the search bar.
  • To add or manage tags in Windows 11, you might need to use third-party software or file management tools that support tagging.
• Using Third-Party Software:
  • There are various third-party applications available that can help you manage tags, metadata, and other properties of your photos. These applications often provide more advanced and customizable options for tagging and searching your photos.

Alternative Methods for Managing Photos

• Using OneDrive and Cloud Integration:
  • Windows 11's File Explorer is deeply integrated with OneDrive, allowing you to sync and manage your photos across multiple devices. You can use OneDrive's web interface or its mobile app to search and manage your photos by tags and other criteria.
• Using Dedicated Photo Management Software:
  • Consider using dedicated photo management software such as Adobe Lightroom, Microsoft Photos, or Google Photos. These applications provide powerful tools for organizing, editing, and searching your photos by various criteria, including tags, dates, and locations.

Enabling Content Search in File Explorer

If you want to search for file content in Windows 11, you can enable this feature by following these steps:

1. Press "Win + X" and select "Run" from the menu.
2. In the Run window, type "control" and press "Enter" to open the Control Panel.
3. Switch to "Small icons" view and click on "File Explorer Options".
4. In the File Explorer Options window, go to the "Search" tab.
5. Check the box labeled "Always search file names and contents (this might take several minutes)" and click "Apply" then "OK".

Please note that enabling content search may increase the time it takes to perform searches, as the system will need to index file contents.

Here're some official documentation from Microsoft, introducing the advanced search feature. You can take as a reference:

Advanced search options - Microsoft Support

Advanced search keywords - Microsoft Support

While Windows 11 may have different search and filter options compared to Windows 7, there are still various methods and tools available to help you manage and search your photos effectively. With the right approach, you can continue to enjoy a seamless photo management experience without needing to switch to a different operating system.

Best Regards,

William.Y | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Answer 2

Thanks for all the information, but it doesn't solve my main problem of getting a list of all the tags I've used in "Pictures" so when I add a new photo I can select (or even key in) a tag I've already used.