This tutorial is for the newbies who find it very difficult to search hidden files. Many times we just hide files in random locations but later forget the location, file name etc. Even if you have no clue about the file name or location, you can still find the file using the built-in Windows search system. Windows search feature allows you to look for all files, including hidden files from it’s interface and provides various options to customize and refine your search.

Search Hidden Files in XP or Vista

1. Go to Start >> Search >> click on All files and folders
2. Type the name of the file and provide the drive to look in (if you remember)
3. To find the file quickly, you can also customize the search with the modified date, file size info
4. Click on More advanced options and check the box next to Search hidden files and folders
5. Click Search to start searching the file and the search system will display the result within seconds
6. You are done.

There are several Windows search tricks available to implement to get better and exact results.

• Lets say you just remember that the file name starts with “College”, you can the make the search with “College*“. Adding a * to the end of the search keyword lets the system to find files that starts with “College”.
• From Advanced Options, check the box next to “Search Subfolders” to include the deep level folders in the search result
• Providing an estimated file size would allow the system to show limited search results with more accuracy
• Provide an estimated modification or file creation date to make the search even more accurate and fast
• If you remember a word or phrase in the file, provide it, so that system can search the file faster