Cannot Search Folders in Finder

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Level 1

8 points

Cannot Search Folders in Finder

Since I upgraded from my old macbook pro to a new silicon mac, I have not been able to search the contents of a folder in Finder. An example of what I mean . . . If I am in my documents folder in finder and then type a search entry into the search box, i get no results (note: Search: "Documents" is highlighted). If i then select Search: "This Mac", then I get a ton of results (which includes documents in the "documents" folder).

Any thoughts on a solution?

Thanks!

MacBook Pro Apple Silicon

Posted on Feb 9, 2023 9:38 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Old Toad

Level 10

210,585 points

Feb 9, 2023 11:10 AM in response to sacoward

Have you installed and run any "cleaning", "optimizing", "speed-up", anti-virus or VPN apps on your Mac?

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following;

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.