I use this feature to quickly use a search engine without having to switch to my browser. The power lies in its ability to handle arguments by pressing after typing the Runner shortcut. Runner creates shortcuts that are executed as they would from the “Run” window. The most extensible features of Launchy are its plugins. The end-result of indexing all these folders is a comprehensive, searchable keyboard-based program launcher. This directory also includes shortcuts to every Control Panel item so that they’re indexed as well. Whenever software adds shortcuts to my desktop, I move them into this folder. I also added a folder of shortcuts that sits on my desktop. Launchy lists the most relevant result, and a quick launches it.īy default, it indexes all the items in the Windows Start Menu. Pressing + brings up the main window, from which one can type in the (partial) name of any Start Menu item. It indexes specified directories, and provides easy access to any applications, shortcuts or files in those directories without having to touch the mouse. Launchy is an application launcher with the polish and look of modern software that has not forgotten its command-line roots. I’ll run through two of them here: Launchy and AutoHotkey.

I frequently get asked questions about some of the desktop utilities I use.

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