Do you know that Windows Xp can’t find hidden and system files because the Search companion does not search for hidden or system files by default. Because of this, you may be unable to find files, even though they exist on the drive. Search tool in Windows XP searches for hidden and system files in a different way. If you want to see search result for hidden or system files in Windows XP follow this steps:
1. Click on Start Menu, then click on Search.
2. Click on All files and folders, and then find click More advanced options on the left side of the search tool window.
3. Then select the Search system folders and Search hidden files and folders check boxes.
NOTE: You need to configure your computer not to hide protected operating system files to find files with both the hidden and system attributes.