Microsoft Updates Windows Desktop Search

By Greg McNevin

August 28, 2008: Microsoft has rolled out version 4 of its Windows Desktop Search application, improving on somewhat cumbersome previous versions with better performance, faster sorting and preview functions.

Originally released as part of the MSN Toolbar then re-released as a standalone application for Windows 2000, XP and Server 2003 in preparation for the launch of Windows Vista, Windows Desktop Search indexes all files, email, bookmarks and more to enable users to rapidly find just about anything on their computers.

The software has had a few unfortunate episodes, such as its accidental release on the Windows Update Service where it had some severe impacts of Windows 2003 machines on corporate networks, however, the new version has reportedly resolved this issue.

Version 4 promises to be more efficient, use less resources and more stable. More specifically it offers a greater number of Group Policy settings, fast sorting and grouping of results in Windows Explorer, encrypted document support, better remote query support, item preview support for XP’s Windows Explorer and other improvements for, among other things, online email.

Windows Desktop Search 4 is available for free download now.

Comment on this story