To find a file in Windows, select Search on the taskbar and type a name or keyword, or search in File Explorer. In File Explorer, start from Home for a broad search, or open the drive or folder where you expect the file before searching to narrow the results. If a file does not appear, check whether its location is included in Windows Search indexing.
Choose where to search
| Method | Search scope | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Taskbar Search | Results can include files on the PC and in OneDrive; the Documents filter narrows displayed results to documents. | Starting a search without opening a folder first. |
| File Explorer Home | Search for relevant files across the PC and cloud. | A broad file search in File Explorer. |
| File Explorer in a selected folder or drive | The selected location and its child folders. | Limiting results to a likely location. |
where command |
Files matching a name pattern; recursive searching is available. | Locating a file by filename pattern from the command line. |
The sources do not establish a universal speed advantage for any one method. Search results and speed depend in part on indexing scope.
Find a file with taskbar Search
- Select Search on the taskbar.
- Type the file name, part of the name, or a relevant keyword.
- Review the results. To focus on documents, use the Documents filter.
Taskbar Search can surface files from the PC and OneDrive. A cloud file may not be stored locally, so seeing a result does not necessarily mean the file is available offline.
Search in File Explorer
- Open File Explorer.
- For a broad search, choose Home. To limit the search, open the drive or folder where you expect the file.
- Enter a file name or keyword in the search box.
- Review the matching files in the chosen scope.
When you select a folder or drive first, File Explorer searches that location and its child folders. Starting from Home is more appropriate when you do not know where the file is kept.
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Why Windows may not find a file
Windows Search uses an index of files and their properties to help return results. The index’s coverage depends on its mode and configured locations, so a search may not include every drive, folder, or cloud-only file.
Check the indexing mode and locations
Open Settings > Privacy & security > Searching Windows to review Windows Search settings. Microsoft’s documented modes are:
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
- Classic: indexes Documents, Pictures, Music, and the desktop by default.
- Enhanced: searches more broadly.
Indexing locations and mode can be configured in Windows search settings. If a file is missing from results, check whether its folder is included; changing the scope may affect what Windows indexes and how it searches.
Try a narrower File Explorer search
If a broad search is difficult to interpret, search from the drive or folder where the file is likely stored. This changes the search scope to that location and its subfolders.
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Locate a file by name from Command Prompt
Windows includes the where command for locating files that match a search pattern. For example, to search drive C and its subdirectories for a file named report.docx, enter:
where /r C: report.docx
This is a filename-pattern lookup, not a replacement for searching inside file contents through the graphical interface. Microsoft Learn documents the command’s recursive search option.
Rank #4
- Fluid Typing Experience: Laptop-like profile with spherically-dished keys shaped for your fingertips delivers a fast, fluid, precise and quieter typing experience
- Automate Repetitive Tasks: Easily create and share time-saving Smart Actions shortcuts to perform multiple actions with a single keystroke with the Logi Options+ app (1)
- Smarter Illumination: Backlit keyboard keys light up as your hands approach and adapt to the environment; Now with more lighting customizations on Logi Options+ (1)
- More Comfort, Deeper Focus: Work for longer with a solid build, low-profile design and an optimum keyboard angle that is better for your wrist posture
- Multi-Device, Multi OS Bluetooth Keyboard: Pair with up to 3 devices on nearly any operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Googlebook OS) via Bluetooth Low Energy or included Logi Bolt USB receiver (2)
Windows 10 and Windows 11 support
Microsoft’s file-finding guidance covers Windows 10 and Windows 11. Microsoft states that Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. That support status is separate from whether file search continues to work on an existing Windows 10 PC.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Microsoft references
- Microsoft Support: Find your files and apps in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Search indexing in Windows
- Microsoft Learn: where
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