Where is that File?

Have you ever looked for that elusive file on your computer and not been able to find it? You can't remember what folder it's in. You've searched, and searched some more and still can't find it. You're ready to pull your hair out because you don't know where it is! Well, I have the answer for you.
Just as you would search the internet, you can search your computer hard drive as well. In fact, you can search your entire network. Google has an application that is a free download called Google Desktop.
I just downloaded and installed it myself, and I love it! With Google Desktop I can now search my computer for that lost file as easily as I search the internet.
Once you've installed Google Desktop it will index all your files the same way Google indexes the files on the internet. This will take some time, maybe a few hours, depending on how many files you have on your computer's hard drive. If you want to search your entire network, you'll have to install Google Desktop on each computer to have Google Desktop index those files as well. While it's doing the indexing you can use your computer as usual. You can start doing searches, but you'll see a notification that it's a partial listing and the percentage that has been completed. Once the indexing is complete, you will no longer see the notification.
When you do a search for a file, you will enter a key word or words in the Google search box at the bottom of the side bar that Google Desktop installs on your computer. As you type you'll see some suggestions pop up above the search bar. Don't see the one you're looking for? Then click on "See all ….. in a Browser" and your browser will open with all the search results that Google Desktop has found. Is this cool or what! Now you'll see all the files that match your search criteria. You'll also see an icon before each file indicating the type of file it is, be it a PDF, Word, Excel, E-mail or whatever.
Now some of you may not want another sidebar on your monitor. I use mine because I like the gadgets that can be added to it, and I use dual monitors as well. You don't have to use the sidebar. You can place the search bar in the task bar, or if you don't want it there either, just click control twice and the search bar will appear in the middle of the screen, and there you'll have it to do your search. It seems Google has thought of everything.
Now, you might ask, but is there one for my computer? I don't run Windows. The answer is probably yes. Google has a version for Linux and the Mac also. So, give it a try, it only takes a few seconds to download and install this great application. And then take a look at all the other free apps that Google has to offer. You may find one that you just can't live without.
-Ed