Windows 10: Two instances of File Explorer Search results pointing to two different drives and paths -...

Microsoft Answers Volunteer Moderator Ramesh Srinivasan has replicated my issue and suggested moving on the Microsoft Feedback Hub, which simply forwards to this web page. https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_10-files/two-instances-of-file-explorer-search-results/82da06f5-2cf3-41d2-bc83-8570ec81afb1?messageId=2814817e-cbf5-41cd-bd29-d858fad3ab1bMost succinct statement of issue is "See attached image for statement of this issue: File Explorer Search results include files not within folder s

:)

 

Two instances of File Explorer Search results pointing to two different drives and paths - change a file name in one File Explorer instance Search results spontaneously appears on the other instance.

Windows 10 22H2 build 19045.3086

I have two copies of photos on two separate drives, so two distinct paths:

E:\scans\#Reflective\Wineway\TIF masters

H:\*******\#scans\#Reflective\Wineway\TIF masters

I have two instances of Windows Explorer up, with identical Search selections, each pointing to the different drives within the \TIF masters directories. This yields the same set of four filenames, but one of the matching filenames is being used on different pictures on each instance – a mistake I was made aware of when using GoodSync which pointed this issue out to me.

Here’s what’s wrong – if I rename one of the pair of same-filename images in one of the instances of File Explorer Search results, it immediately is added to the other instance of File Explorer Search results… which is pointing to a completely different drive and pathname. If the Folder Path column is set the results shown in the File Explorer Search results where it incorrectly appears shows the path to the other File Explorer instance Search path! See attached screen capture to see the result.

So, if the Search criteria I use is NOT identical for each File Explorer instance – yet yielding the same set of filenames – this does not happen. This appears to be a bug in File Explorer’s Search programming.

 

Two instances of File Explorer Search results pointing to two different drives and paths - change a file name in one File Explorer instance Search results spontaneously appears on the other instance.

An index rebuild and several reboots later...

I have done as suggested, with the results being the same.

Perhaps I am asking the wrong question. See attached image for statement of this issue: File Explorer Search results include files not within folder searched, nor its path, not even its drive.

 

Two instances of File Explorer Search results pointing to two different drives and paths - change a file name in one File Explorer instance Search results spontaneously appears on the other instance.

Hello ,

Good to see you in Microsoft Community.

Did this occur recently, or has it been going on for a while? If it was recent, did you have any special actions (such as installing system updates, hardware changes, etc.) before that?

Firstly, please check the properties of each of the 2 paths: right-click on the folder > Properties. Then take a screenshot of it and attach it to your next reply.

Or have you enabled mutual synchronization of the two folders for backup? You can Perform a clean boot (microsoft.com) to rename again and see if there is same situation, this is a troubleshooting step. In this mode, we can further confirm whether it is caused by system problem or third-party software or personalized settings. So, please be patient.

Disclaimer: A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background program is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem.

These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by-step so that it will help you get you back on track.

And try the steps below:

1. Restart Windows Explorer
   
   Please save your work and opened apps, then run Command Prompt as an administrator ("Win" logo key + "Q", type "cmd", select "Run as administrator"), and type the following commands one by one.
   
   
2. Clear File Explorer History: In File Explorer, go to the "View" tab, click on the "Options" button, and then select "Change folder and search options." In the "General" tab, click on the "Clear" button under the "Privacy" section to clear the File Explorer history.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Rebuild the Search Index: Windows maintains an index of files to improve search performance. Sometimes, rebuilding the search index can resolve search-related issues. Here's how you can do it:
   

a. Open the "Indexing Options" by searching for it in the Start menu.

b. Click on the "Advanced" button in the "Indexing Options" window.

c. In the "Advanced Options" window, go to the "Index Settings" tab and click on the "Rebuild" button.

d. Confirm the action and let Windows rebuild the search index. This process may take some time.

If anything is unclear, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Best Regards,

| Microsoft Community Support Specialist