QDS File – What is .qds file and how to open it?
QDS File Extension
Windows Directory Query File – file format by Microsoft
QDS (Windows Directory Query File) is a file extension developed by Microsoft for Windows operating systems. It is used to store directory query results for faster access and improved performance when browsing or searching for files and folders.
Definition and Purpose
A QDS file, short for Windows Directory Query File, is a data file created and used by Microsoft Windows to store user-defined search queries. It contains parameters, filters, and criteria specified by the user to tailor search results for specific files, folders, or content within the Windows operating system.
Functionality and Usage
QDS files serve as a convenient method to save and reuse complex search parameters. When a user performs a search and wants to preserve the specific criteria used, they can choose to save the query as a QDS file. This allows for easy access to the same search parameters in the future without having to manually recreate them. By double-clicking a QDS file, users can initiate the saved search, which will run according to the defined criteria and display the corresponding results. QDS files are particularly useful for frequently performed searches or for finding files based on specific criteria that may be difficult to recall or recreate manually.
Opening QDS Files in Windows
QDS files, also known as Windows Directory Query Files, are data files used by the Windows File Manager and Windows Explorer to define specific search criteria for locating files on a system. To open a QDS file, follow these steps:
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In File Manager or Windows Explorer: Navigate to the QDS file you want to open. Select the file and press Enter. The search criteria defined in the QDS file will be applied, and the results will be displayed in the File Manager or Windows Explorer window.
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Using the Command Prompt: Open the Command Prompt window by typing “cmd” in the Start menu search bar and pressing Enter. Navigate to the directory where the QDS file is located using the “cd” command. Execute the following command:
dir <path_to_QDS_file> /S
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Additional Information
QDS files are typically used to automate file search tasks. They can define criteria such as the file name, file path, file size, and file creation date. By creating and opening QDS files, users can quickly and easily locate specific files on their system without having to manually search through folders. It’s important to note that QDS files are not executable files and do not contain any harmful code.
QDS File Format
QDS files, or Windows Directory Query Files, are specific file formats created by Microsoft for use with the Query Directory function of the FILEMAP API. The QDS file saves a snapshot of the current user’s directory and stores information about the files and subdirectories within that directory. This information includes details such as filename, file size, file date, and file attributes.
QDS files are typically created when a user performs a directory query using the FILEMAP API. The query results are then stored in a QDS file, which can be used later to quickly retrieve the information without performing another directory query. This can be beneficial for applications that need to store and access directory information for later use.
Usage of QDS Files
QDS files are used by various applications and utilities to store and retrieve directory information. Windows Search, for instance, uses QDS files to index files for efficient searching. File managers and backup software may also utilize QDS files to store directory information for later access or recovery purposes. Additionally, QDS files can be used to compare directory structures and identify changes made to files over time.