Everything File Search: Instant Indexing + Advanced Syntax to Replace Windows' Built-in Search
Everything is an extremely lightweight file search software developed by Voidtools. It can index an entire Windows computer in seconds and locate any file or folder with instantaneous speed. Because it only indexes filenames and monitors disk changes in real-time, its memory and CPU usage are negligible, making it an ideal replacement for the native Windows Search to achieve a fluid "type-as-you-search" experience.
Software Introduction
- Developer: David Carpenter / Voidtools
- Current Stable Version: 1.4.1.1027 (Released 2025-05-23)
- Supported Platforms: Windows XP → Windows 11 (32-bit / 64-bit)
- License: Freeware for personal use, can be used in commercial environments (see Voidtools license terms)
Core Feature Highlights
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| ⚡Blazing-Fast Indexing | Utilizes the NTFS Master File Table (MFT) to index millions of files in seconds, with automatic incremental updates upon restart. |
| 🔍Instant Search | Displays results as you type, with millisecond-level filtering. Supports wildcards, regex, boolean logic, and dozens of filter functions. |
| 📂Real-Time Monitoring | File creations, deletions, and modifications are immediately reflected in the results list without needing a manual refresh. |
| 🪶Extremely Low Footprint | Runs in the background using only a few MB of memory and almost negligible CPU usage. |
| 🌐File Sharing | Built-in HTTP/ETP server allows for quick sharing of search results over a local network. |
| 🔄Portable/Installer Dual Mode | Officially provides both installer and green portable versions to suit system maintenance or use on a flash drive. |
| 🛠️Security Updates | The latest version fixes a DLL hijacking vulnerability and enhances localization language packs. |
Download Information
Download Link:
We also provide:
- Direct Downloads (Installer / Portable, 32-bit & 64-bit)
- Multi-Cloud Mirrors: Baidu Netdisk, 123Pan, Alibaba Cloud Drive, etc., for high-speed access across different network environments.
Usage Recommendations
Automatic Privilege Escalation on First Launch It's recommended to run Everything as an administrator once to register it as a service. Afterward, it can be used with standard privileges while ensuring the real-time indexing feature works correctly.
Master Advanced Search Syntax
-
regex: to enable regular expressions. -
size:>1gb to filter for large files. -
modified:2025-06-01..2025-06-24 to filter by a date range.
For more advanced syntax, refer to the official documentation page.
-
Optimize Resource Usage The default settings are already very efficient. For further trimming, you can disable "Content Indexing" or limit the disk partitions being monitored.
Sync Bookmarks and Filters Export your bookmarks and filter rules as EFU / CSV files to quickly replicate your workflow across multiple computers.
Changelog Excerpt (1.4.1.1027)
- Improved: Updated all localization files.
- Security: Enhanced protection against DLL hijacking.
- Fixed: Several minor stability issues.
For the complete changelog, see the official text file.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What are the advantages of Everything compared to the built-in Windows Search?
A: Everything only indexes filenames, making it vastly faster than the content/attribute-based Windows Search. It also uses minimal resources and provides real-time results, making it an essential tool for high efficiency. - Q: Can Everything search file content?
A: Yes, using thecontent: keyword is supported, but this feature can significantly slow down searches and should be used judiciously. - Q: How well does Everything work on FAT32, exFAT, or removable drives?
A: For non-NTFS partitions, Everything uses a polling method, which is slightly slower. Performance can be improved by checking the corresponding volume in the 'Indexes' settings.