SEARCH-MS File – What is .search-ms file and how to open it?


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SEARCH-MS File Extension

Windows Saved Search File – file format by Microsoft

SEARCH-MS is a file extension for Windows Saved Search Files. It is used to save search queries in Windows operating systems, allowing users to quickly and easily access frequently used searches.

SEARCH-MS File Definition

A SEARCH-MS file, also known as a Windows Saved Search File, is an XML-based file that stores a saved search query in the Windows operating system. It allows users to easily access and re-execute specific searches without having to manually enter the search criteria again. SEARCH-MS files are typically located in the “Searches” folder within the user’s profile directory.

Functionality and Usage

When a user performs a search in Windows Explorer, or other search-enabled applications, they can choose to save the search query as a SEARCH-MS file. This file contains information about the search criteria, such as the search terms, filters, scope, and other settings. By double-clicking on a SEARCH-MS file, users can instantly re-execute the saved search, displaying the results in the same location where the original search was performed. This functionality provides a convenient way to quickly retrieve and refine search results.

Understanding SEARCH-MS Files

SEARCH-MS files, or Windows Saved Search Files, are created when a user saves a search performed in Windows File Explorer or Cortana. These files store the search criteria and parameters, allowing users to quickly re-run the same search without having to manually enter the criteria again. SEARCH-MS files are typically text-based and may be inspected using a text editor. They contain information such as the search term, file types included, and exclusion criteria.

Opening SEARCH-MS Files

SEARCH-MS files are not intended to be opened directly by users. Rather, they are designed to be used within the Windows operating system to restore previously saved searches. To open a SEARCH-MS file, simply double-click on it in File Explorer. This will automatically run the saved search and display the results in a new File Explorer window. Alternatively, users can right-click on a saved SEARCH-MS file and select “Run as administrator” to execute the search with elevated privileges.

File Format and Compatibility

A .SEARCH-MS file is a saved search file used by Windows’ search functionality. It contains search parameters and settings, allowing users to quickly and easily retrieve specific files, folders, or other items from their computers. These files are saved in a proprietary format and are not compatible with other search applications. Typically, .SEARCH-MS files are created automatically when a user performs a search in Windows Explorer or uses the search bar in the taskbar.

Usage and Functionality

When a user performs a search in Windows, the search parameters and settings are saved as a .SEARCH-MS file in the following location: C:\Users\<Username>\Searches. The file name is automatically generated and includes the search term(s) used. By double-clicking on a .SEARCH-MS file, users can quickly re-run the same search query, saving them the need to manually enter the search parameters again. Additionally, these files can be moved, copied, or shared with other users, allowing them to access and use the saved search parameters.

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