Cortana search and File Explorer search serve different primary purposes within Windows. Cortana acts as a digital assistant accessing web, cloud services (like email), and indexed local files using natural language queries. File Explorer search focuses solely on your local files and folders, browsing directory structures and applying detailed filename/content filters to locate items. Cortana offers broader context-aware results, while Explorer provides precise file-centric controls.

Cortana is best for mixed queries like "resume from last week" which might find documents, emails, or web results. File Explorer excels when you know a file resides locally – searching within a specific folder network drive using parameters like modified date or file type. Professionals often use Cortana cross-app (Outlook, Spotify) while IT staff rely on Explorer’s granular control for local system management.

Cortana's integration offers convenience and cross-platform insights but raises privacy considerations via cloud processing. File Explorer works offline and manages local content securely, yet lacks broader context. As Microsoft evolves Windows search, Cortana-style features may merge deeper into the OS while Explorer remains essential for precise local file operations.