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Search Special Characters in Windows Explorer: 2 Easy Ways
Use a syntax or a third-party tool
3 min. read
Updated onSeptember 23, 2024
updated onSeptember 23, 2024
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While we know that Windows doesn’t allow using special characters in file names, most are unaware that it also can’t natively search for them using the standardSearch Fieldmethod. So, how do you search for special characters in Windows (File) Explorer?
This is slightly tricky, but once you get the hang of the process, searching for files/folders with special characters in all iterations of Windows won’t be a problem anymore.
How do I search for special characters in File Explorer?
1. Use a syntax
With these two syntaxes, you can search for special characters or their combination in Windows Explorer. Each works in specific instances, so try them both and use whichever works.
Also, the~=”X”will helpfind duplicate files, especially in instances where a program adds(2),(3)or(4)as a suffix to the file name. If we were to simply search for(2), it would show all files/folders that have2in their name.
But as soon as we use~=”(2)”, Windows Explorer will now only list results with(2)in the file/folder name.
Besides, if you want to search for files/folders with special characters in a specific folder, head to it, and then use the search field in there.
2. Use a third-party search tool
In addition toEverythingbyVoidTools, there are several otheradvanced search tools for Windowsthat can be used since searching for special characters can slow down your PC or cause theerror_no_more_search_handles.
You now know both options to search for special characters in Windows Explorer. Remember, the syntax method works best for a few searches, but if you regularly work with such files, a third-party tool likeEverythingis a better way to go!
Before you leave, discover expert-recommendedsearch tips for Windowsto find files/folders quicker than ever before!
For any queries or to share which method worked best for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:File Explorer,file opener
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
