Seeker 3.11.0.1

Seeker is a really fast file search application that can be used on Desktop Search. It doesn't send search queries to online search engines.

It has implemented a powerful search algorithm. It looks a little bit like Windows Search but it comes with some extra options. I guess you are used with the Windows Search behavior so I am going to write about the special options.

I like about this application the fact that it can search text inside a document and that's not all. If the application can find that text inside a document or text file it can replace that text with another one that you will have to input.

I like very much the preview engine when the search is returning the quoted text. This is a very useful option for users who want to replace very quickly some text and want to see the modifications.

The user interface is easy to use and people that are familiar with Windows Search won't have any trouble using this program. It is a single dialog based window so you will learn to use it in no time.

The report mode can be organized in several modes. There you can find the Detailed File List report, the Structured report, the Summary report and the Summary report with file list.

The 'Options' area is very easy to set up. Basically you have there a list of filetypes that the search will return. For *.doc/*.dot (Microsoft Word Document) and *.xls/*.xlt (Microsoft Excel Worksheet) you will need to have this programs installed because Seeker is using some special headers required from those applications. Those special headers are slowing down the search but even then the application is faster that Windows Search utility.

The search configuration can be saved in order to use it again in the future. The settings are very easy to restore. You can also save logs about all your searches.

Pluses: a really easy to use application, powerful search engine with fast reporting, support for text search inside a document, multiple types of reports, easy to configure.

Drawbacks / flaws: you will have to use * as a wildcard for every search in order to obtain the right answer. This is required only for the filename search. It might be a little harsh for users who aren't accustomed to using wildcards.

In conclusion: a really nice application that can successfully replace the old and sometimes unreliable Windows Search. It has another advantage: you won't have to spend a penny for this application because it is completely free.

version reviewed: 3.11