OS X: How to include system files in Finder search results

Use the System Files option in when searching for files in the Finder to include search results from areas such as the System and Library folders.

First, add the System Files Option as an available search criteria.

  1. Press Command-F to open a search window.
  2. From the Kind pop-up menu, choose Other.
  3. Select (check) System Files in the sheet that appears.
  4. Click OK.

You can now search for System Files by selecting this option when searching from the Finder.

  1. Start a new search by typing a term in the search field of the Finder window.
  2. Choose "System files" from the first criteria pop up menu. 
  3. Choose "Are included" to search include System files in the search results.
  4. Choose a search scope that includes an system files area. For example, choose "This Mac" to search the entire computer, which includes the System and Library folders.

In the example below, the Helvetica LT font contained in the /System/Library/Fonts folder is found by including System files in the search.

Finder search window showing Helvetica in search results

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