How to Find Programs in Windows 8

Last Updated: September 30, 2021

Computers and devices running on Windows 8 have a unique appearance and design compared to devices running earlier versions of Windows. Windows 8 programs and applications can be located by either searching the Modern Interface or accessing the Desktop.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:
Searching with the Charms Bar

1
Press the WIN + C keys at the same time using your keyboard. This will display the Charms menu.
2
Click on “Search,” then type the name of the program you're searching for.
3
Click on the program when it displays in search results.

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:
Using the Desktop Search Bar

1
Press the WIN + D keys at the same time to access the Windows 8 desktop.^{[1]
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2
Press the WIN + R keys at the same time, then type your search criteria into the dialog box.
3
Press “Enter” to execute your search. Windows 8 will search for installed programs and apps that match your search criteria.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:
Using the Desktop File Explorer

1
Press the WIN + D keys at the same time to access the Windows 8 desktop.
2
Click on the “Folder” icon displayed in the taskbar. This will open a new session of File Explorer.
3
Click on the “Search libraries” field, then type the name of the program you're searching for.
4
Select the program when it displays in search results.^{[2]
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Method 4

Method 4 of 4:
Finding and Browsing All Apps

1
Right-click on your Windows 8 desktop from the Start screen.
2
Click on “All Apps” displayed at the bottom right corner of your screen. A list of all installed programs will display on-screen in alphabetical order.
3
Select the program when it displays in search results.