Google Desktop Search is a Google browser plug-in that creates a searchable index of your PC hard drive. It can also create a searchable index of any drive you are able to reach on a local network, including those with password-protected folders, if you are willing to give the plug-in the password.

Google Desktop search searches text in your files, email, photos, music, chats and the Web pages you've viewed. Google Desktop Search can improve your productivity.

1. Stay organized and gather information like weather, news, and pictures from the Web by using Google Desktop Search.

2. Adapt to the vertical Google Gadgets side bar and keep all the Google Gadgets, including Google Desktop Search, organized and easy to access.

3. Find the elusive email or file you just know you created, but can't remember when you created it or where it is filed.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get started with Google Desktop Search for free

You can download Google Desktop Search for free without a Google account and start finding those missing documents, images, emails or chat sessions within minutes.

I recommend: Download the Google Desktop for Vista, XP, Linux or Mac and select whether you want the main program or if you want any of the Google Gadgets that are available with it. For help with Google Desktop Search, check out the Getting Started page which gives pointers on how to use the search feature.

Get some additional Google Desktop Search training

Although Google Desktop Search is quite similar to how you most likely perform online or system-based searches already, you may find it helpful to see how the tool installs and works in order to know all the possible features available, such as searching deleted files and being warned about visiting a site that might be secretly trying to steal your information.

I recommend: Video Professor has an short introductory tutorial and Google Desktop search information that can get you started. Check out the short video by Don Schechter on how to install and use Google Desktop.

Delve in with more Google Desktop Search information and helpful resources

Hire a Google Desktop search consultant for Google Desktop search advice and the application setup help you need. You'll pay for their services, but it may be worth it to your company to save time learning to use the tools.

I recommend: You can obtain basic Google Desktop search information through Google's Desktop Help page. Neutrino Consulting can help answers any questions you may have about Google Desktop and its search capabilities.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The Google Desktop search box can appear always on top, in the bar at the bottom of your screen, or on a side bar. You can also shift to Google Desktop search from an ordinary Google Web search page.