File Plugin

The File plugin searches files and folders from configured roots. Use the f keyword when you want file results instead of global app, web, or calculator results.

Quick Start

f report
f README.md
f Documents invoice
f .pdf

The first run may show indexing status while Wox scans configured roots. Results become faster and more complete after the initial index is ready.

What Gets Indexed

Open Settings -> Plugins -> File to manage roots. Wox indexes those roots and skips common system/generated directories that are not useful for launcher search.

Use a small, deliberate root list for best results:

• Good: home subfolders, project folders, document folders, mounted work directories.
• Avoid: whole system volumes, dependency caches, build output directories, VM images, and folders with huge generated trees.

Actions

Action	Use
Open	Open the file or folder with the default app
Open containing folder	Reveal the result in the file manager
Delete	Move the item to trash
Show context menu	Use the platform file menu when available

Search Tips

• Use file name fragments: f invoice q1.
• Add an extension when you know it: f proposal .pdf.
• Add a folder hint when names are common: f design README.
• If results feel too broad, narrow the configured roots instead of relying only on longer queries.

Index Status

The File plugin can show toolbar status while it prepares, scans, or syncs roots. This is normal after first launch, after root changes, or after a large file move.

If search status reports a permission problem, grant Wox access to the affected folder and let the index refresh.

Troubleshooting

A file is missing

1. Confirm the file is under a configured root.
2. Confirm Wox has permission to read the folder.
3. Wait for indexing to finish if the file was just created.
4. Restart Wox if a removable drive or network mount was attached after Wox started.

Search is slow

• Remove very large generated folders from roots.
• Keep roots focused on places you actually search.
• Check logs under the Wox data directory if toolbar status stays in one phase for too long.