Windows Explorer always opens in SEARCH mode

[HisNameForever]

I have XP SP2, installing the updates as notified by MS. I have had no
previous problems with how Win Explorer behaves until the last 3 weeks. Now
every time you open a Win Explorer window it defaults to opening a search
window. I have opened Control Panel and configured the behavior of the
folders, and I have also "restored defaults" but there is no change either
way. Before this problem, when you clicked on a folder it would show the
folder's contents. Now all you get is a directory tree on the left with the
file search options showing above it. On the right side of the window you do
not see the contents of the file folder, instead, you are directed to enter
your search criteria. Opening a file folder to view data has become a
convoluted set of clicks to work around this problem. This is frustrating
and time-consuming.

 

[Nepatsfan]

I have XP SP2, installing the updates as notified by MS. I have had no
previous problems with how Win Explorer behaves until the last 3 weeks. Now
every time you open a Win Explorer window it defaults to opening a search
window. I have opened Control Panel and configured the behavior of the
folders, and I have also "restored defaults" but there is no change either
way. Before this problem, when you clicked on a folder it would show the
folder's contents. Now all you get is a directory tree on the left with the
file search options showing above it. On the right side of the window you do
not see the contents of the file folder, instead, you are directed to enter
your search criteria. Opening a file folder to view data has become a
convoluted set of clicks to work around this problem. This is frustrating
and time-consuming.

Take a look at these articles.

Courtesy of Ramesh Srinivasan, MS-MVP
Search Companion Starts If You Double-Click a Folder or Drive
http://windowsxp.mvps.org/searchwindow.htm

Courtesy of Doug Knox, MS-MVP
Fixes the problem where Search or Command Prompt opens when double clicking a
folder
http://www.dougknox.com/xp/scripts_desc/xp_folder_open.htm

Here's Microsoft's take on the situation.

Search Companion Starts If You Double-Click a Folder
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=321186

Good luck

Nepatsfan