The MSN Search Toolbar, introduced on a trial basis five months ago allows users to search not only by file names but also by the contents of documents, e-mails, calendar entries, pictures and PowerPoint presentations. The new version expands the types of files supported and lets users customize how the program sorts different files -- by date, size, author or sender, among other options. Users can search more than 200 different file types, including Excel, PowerPoint, MP3, GIF and JPG files.

Microsoft's new desktop search, can be downloaded from http:/desktop.msn.com.

While Google, Yahoo and Microsoft are competing on the Windows desktop, Apple Computer Inc. has also increased search capabilities for its Macintosh computer operating system. The latest Mac OS, called Tiger, includes a fast desktop search tool called "Spotlight." Google has plans for a desktop search for the Macintosh computer operating system