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How to Find a File

One of the most frequently asked questions in tech support units is "How do I find a file?" Here's how.

Windows Vista:

1 Click on the Start Menu icon
2 type the item you want into 'Start Search' box
3 results appear in the start menu area

Alternately, you can select the 'Search' button on the Start Menu then enter your query in the Search Box or explore an 'Advanced Search'. Results appear as you type. You'll also notice in the left hand frame a list of folders appear, these can be used to navigate your computer - for example click on the entry for your User Name to go to common folders (most users store their games, photos and documents in these folders). Conveniently, a User Name button is also on your Start Menu for quick access.

Windows XP:

1 Go to Start
2 select Search
3 click on 'For Files or Folders'
4 enter as much as you know of the file name in the search box
5 open the drop down menu under 'Look in:' and select the area to search
6 click the Search button