For many Windows users, searching for files can become a time-consuming task, especially when dealing with large storage drives and years of accumulated documents, images, and downloads. By optimizing Windows’ built-in search and indexing features, and combining them with smart maintenance habits, you can locate files in seconds instead of minutes. Intermediate Windows users can take advantage of these techniques to improve daily productivity and avoid the frustration of endless browsing.
Why is indexing important for faster searches?
Windows Search works by indexing file names, properties, and even some content, depending on settings. Without indexing, the system must scan folders manually during each search, which can be slow. By ensuring important locations are indexed, searches return results almost instantly. For example, if you frequently access a project folder on your D: drive, adding it to the index allows searches within that folder to appear immediately, even when filtering by file content.
How to check and customize Windows indexing options
1. Press Windows + S and type “Indexing Options”, then press Enter.
2. In the Indexing Options window, review which locations are indexed. By default, common folders like Documents and Pictures are included.
3. To add or remove locations, click Modify. Tick boxes next to folders you want indexed and untick those you rarely search.
4. For advanced control, click Advanced. Here you can rebuild the index (useful after major file reorganizations) or change the file types Windows indexes.
A practical example: If you store active work projects in E:\Work\Current, add that folder to the index and remove the Downloads folder if it’s mostly temporary files. This prevents wasted indexing effort and reduces background processing.
What are the best ways to search effectively in File Explorer?
Once indexing is optimized, you can use File Explorer’s search box more efficiently by applying search filters:
– Search by file type: Type kind:pdf to only display PDF files.
– Search by date: Use datemodified:this week to find recently changed files.
– Search by size: Type size:>100MB to find large files.
– Combine filters: kind:video AND datemodified:this month to find recent videos.
Filters work best in indexed locations, where results appear instantly, but they can also help in non-indexed folders, though with slower results.
How can Glary Utilities help in file search and cleanup?
Even with indexing, cluttered drives can slow down both your search speed and overall PC performance. Glary Utilities offers several tools that complement Windows’ built-in search:
– Quick Search: A lightweight tool that instantly finds files by name without opening File Explorer.
– Disk Cleaner: Removes unnecessary temporary files that waste storage and expand search results with irrelevant data.
– Duplicate File Finder: Locates and removes duplicate files, reducing indexing size and search clutter.
By regularly cleaning up files and keeping the index focused on essential locations, searches become both faster and more relevant.
When should you rebuild the index?
Rebuilding is useful if search results seem incomplete or outdated, especially after big folder reorganizations or drive migrations. This forces Windows to rescan and store updated file information. To do this, go to Indexing Options, click Advanced, then select Rebuild under Troubleshooting. Keep in mind that indexing can take time, so it’s best done when you’re not heavily using the computer.
Final thoughts on efficient searching
A well-maintained index, combined with smart search filters and regular cleanup using tools like Glary Utilities, can transform the way you locate files in Windows. By investing a few minutes into setup and occasional maintenance, you save hours in the long run and keep your workspace free from digital clutter.