The Windows Vista search bar is very useful and efficient. It enables you to search for your files right from the start menu and you can even use it as a Run Command bar. The only problem is that it can become quite slow over time, as files start piling up. Luckily it’s easy to speed it up again by limiting your search results. Here’s how:

1. Right-click the Start button and go to Properties
2. Click Customize
3. 
4. Then limit your search results

The options are easy to understand: the Search communications option searches files in Windows Mail and Contacts. Uncheck the box if you use neither of them.

Search favorites and history searches Internet Explorer favourites and history. So if you use a different browser, uncheck it.

Search files is obvious. I have it switched to Search this user’s files, because I don’t search other accounts. I recommend using this option, since searching the entire index can take a really long time.

If you want to use the search menu bar as a Run Command bar, leave the Search Programs box checked.

Changing the settings should speed up your searches. But keep in mind that the amount of speed increased depends on your preferences.