Tool to find files in Windows 64 bit

Question

I need a tool to find files (by name pattern, or by content) under Windows, that supports correctly the 64 bit environment.

The embedded search tool in Windows 7 is great for indexed content, but does not work well if you have to find files in system folders and program files (e.g, all the instances of a DLL in the system). 32 bit third party tools often don't work well in the 64 bit environment, due to the redirection of system32 and program files.

What tool can I use?

Answer 1

dir <startpath>\<searchpattern> /s

So if I wanted to search for foo.dll on the entire c: drive, I'd use:

dir c:\foo.dll /s

For all files starting with foo under my user directory:

dir c:\users\myUserName\foo* /s

Answer 2

If you don't mind paying, Filelocator might be what you're looking for.

Answer 3

For a free alternative, the File Manager Q-Dir, has an excellent file find capability if command line execution is not to your liking.

For a paid alternative, I have been using the PowerDesk series of File Managers from v.4 to the newest which is v.8. Don't care for the customer service at all but the product has been a boon to me.