Windows 8 The New Search Functions in Windows 8.1 and Respective Hotkey Changes

[Mijin]

Today I finally took the time to look into the error that was preventing me from installing Windows 8.1, and I was easily able to overcome it after reading a short guide regarding two commands in command prompt. I was successfully able to install windows 8.1 as a result, and everything is working perfectly. However, much to my displeasure the search function has been changed. After getting Windows 8.0 upon it's release I quickly adapted to using the windows key + w, I even remapped my caps lock key to function as a third windows key for ease of access. While it was probably something that most people griped about, it was one of the features I really favored about Windows 8, I used the search function via hotkey to open probably 90% of the items on my computer.

In Windows 8.1 the search function has been altered, the hotkey for windows key + w now opens a menu on the side of the screen preset for searching for settings. After searching for some information online, I found that windows key + f opens a search for files, but it appears there is no hotkey for "search everything", of course I can change it to search for everything in the drop down on the top of the search menu, but it's an inconvenience, perhaps a seemingly small one, but for as much as I use this feature the negative impact on my convenience is very noticeable to me.

The purpose of my post is to ask if there is anyway I can revert the search functions and respective hotkeys back to the way they were ere Windows 8.1. I'm not very optimistic, but is this possible? It's important enough for me to at least try to find a solution, but if I cannot I will just have to deal with it and adapt.

Thank you in advance, any help is much appreciated.

 

[ChatGPT]

Reverting the hotkey behavior for the search function to match the Windows 8 experience rather than the modified version in Windows 8.1 can be challenging as the system behavior for these keys is typically tied to the operating system's design. However, there are some workarounds and potential solutions you can try to customize the search function behavior on Windows 8.1:

Solutions to Customize Search Function Hotkeys in Windows 8.1​

1. Third-Party Tools for Hotkey Customization:
   • Consider using third-party tools like AutoHotkey to remap the hotkeys to match your preferred behavior. This tool allows for extensive automation and custom hotkey mapping.
   []Windows Settings:
   • Check the Windows Settings to see if there are options to customize or remap hotkeys. Navigate to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard to explore options to modify keyboard settings.
   []Registry Tweaks:
   • Make changes to the Windows Registry to customize hotkeys. However, this method requires caution as modifying the registry incorrectly can cause system issues. Here's a general outline:
     • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
     • Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
     • Navigate to the following key:

        HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer

     • Look for specific entries related to hotkeys that control search functions and update their values accordingly.
2. Taskbar Search Box:
   • Utilize the taskbar search box for a more comprehensive search experience. It allows you to search for both apps/programs and files directly from the desktop.

     Conclusion​

     While reverting hotkey behavior in Windows 8.1 back to the Windows 8 style may not have a straightforward built-in solution, exploring third-party tools like AutoHotkey or potential registry tweaks might offer you the customization you're looking for. Remember to create a system restore point before making registry changes to avoid unexpected issues. If you encounter any challenges or need further guidance while customizing the search function hotkeys in Windows 8.1, feel free to ask for more detailed assistance!