Windows Search 4.0 for Developers
As with previous versions of Windows Search, Windows Search 4.0 provides search capabilities for most common file and data types—such as e-mail, media files, contacts, calendar appointments, documents, and other third-party formats. The system's search capabilities can be extended in a number of ways.
System search APIs can be used to provide fast search capabilities within third-party applications, such as a search box placed directly within the application frame or window.
System indices can be queried to provide value-added services, such as new data views or document flow services.
The common file dialog can be used to add search and file-tagging support when users need to open or save files.
IFilters and protocol handlers can be included to enable custom or proprietary file formats or data to show up in a regular desktop search.
Thumbnail Extractors and Preview Handlers support thumbnails and full previews in Search Explorer.
Property handlers can be used to support metadata writeback to file formats in Windows Search.
Download the Windows Search SDK to explore sample applications that can be developed using Visual Studio, C#, and .NET technology. You'll need to download the Windows SDK for Windows Vista and .NET Framework for the Windows Search libraries. The Windows Search SDK contains a variety of useful code samples as well as an interoperability assembly for developing with managed code. For additional information, refer to Development Platform Overview.
