Where did my downloaded files go?

don't see the "search for new files" option

[eljefe3]

I had my computer in the shop and when I got it back the shop had put on a download app which was supposed to speed up the process. I then tried to delete this program, but whenever I tried to download something I couldn't due to an error that said download program not installed so can't continue. I reloaded the app and proceeded to download a few big files.

Now when I try to find them I can't using the xp search for files and folders option. I remember on the old OS you could look for new files added, but I can't seem to find that option here with only " search for modified files" being the only option.

I then tried to find all files of this size but the search could not find them either, so I'm at a loss at to where these 20 mb files might be hiding.

Any suggestions?

[coopster]

The default XP setup doesn't lend itself very handy for power users, it comes out of the box setup for the average user. First thing I like to do is make sure you aren't hiding any files or folders:

Start > Control Panel > Folder Options 
Click on the View tab and Show Hidden Files and Folders

While you're at it, you may want to remove the check from

Hide Extensions for known file types

. I like to see the extensions.

Now when you open up a Search, you need to

Change Preferences

. Click on the

Change files and folders search behavior

. Use the

Advanced

option.

[longen]

Download another file, a small one, and it will likely default to the same folder as the previous downloads.

[vkaryl]

First place to look: Desktop. Most download "fixers" use Desktop as default.... (apologies if you've done so, and I just restated the obvious!)

Also: in My Documents, you will sometimes find a folder named "My Downloads". Try that....