If this sounds like your week
When Windows Search gets in the way
IT teams distributing software to desktops often need an MSI artifact rather than a per-user web installer. Windows Search is built in but cannot be configured as the AutomataLabs.SearchSentinel package with this overlay and index behavior. locked-down machines cannot tolerate ad hoc installers during onboarding.
Where tooling usually breaks
Why local-first matters
index.db, config.json, and logs stay under %APPDATA%\SearchSentinel instead of a vendor-hosted workspace. Search queries are not uploaded for AI enhancement, analytics, or ad targeting. You buy the app once and keep the search index as a local workstation asset.
Technical proof points
- MSI target - WiX en-US - AutomataLabs.SearchSentinel - WebView2 downloadBootstrapper - Windows app enumeration - COM shortcut resolution - ShellExecuteW