Search Function Problem in XP

[corkyg]

I have XP Pro on three different systems. The Search function (files and folders) works perfect in two of the but not in the third.

What happens is, after Start, Search, the two pane box pops up. If I list a file and press "search," a small box pops up in the right pane telling me to follow the steps in the left pane, and nothing happens searchwise.

Any ideas as to what might be going on and how to fix it? I can't find anything in the KB about troubleshooting the Search function.

 

[corkyg]

Off to Phoenix on business - this problem exists also on a friend's computer, and I really need some sort of clue as to what it is and why. Not having a search function is no fun at all. So - this is a glorified bumpity bump.

 

[corkyg]

OK - back from Phoenix and still no answers. Guess I will post it over in the highly technical forum.

 

[corkyg]

OK - it got locked in highly technical - I guess that is only highly technical in terms of hardware - but Am I the only person in the whole forum who has experienced this - on 2 out of 5 computers now. ???

 

[corkyg]

OK - I finally resolved the problem just by trying a lot of things including the last resort. I ran SFC /SCANNOW, and it found nothing. I matched every option and checkbox with the systems that work. Finally, I decided to reinstall Windows XP over itself as an upgrade. It worked! The search function is back to normal. Now I know what to do with one other system I take care of.

 

[lkstafford]

corky,

sorry I nor anyone else had answers for you - I had my own different problems with XP search {it is a very bad } file management tool and I got some great suggestions but finally resorted to a great freeware search program another member suggested.

I commend you for sharing your "fix" despite the fact none of us could help - thanks

 

[corkyg]

Thanks Ikstafford. If you don't mind, what is the freeware alternative that you decided to use? That would be a good asset in the toolbox. I agree that the XP Search function is not too great. Too much effort and resources go to managing things like that stupid little dog.

 

[lkstafford]

Corky,

Credit goes to member - c0rv1d43 - for this alternative. Agent Ransack - quick - efficient - free!! Lacks the "beauty" of XP programs.

http://www.agentransack.com/

Hope you find it usefull