Site-wide quick search (Cmd+K / Ctrl+K) Free

The quick search overlay lets visitors press Cmd+K (Mac) or Ctrl+K (Windows and Linux) anywhere on your site to search your document library — they don’t have to be on a library page. It is a single toggle under Documents → Settings → Features, and it is included in the free plugin.

How do I enable the overlay?

1. Go to Documents → Settings → Features.
2. Turn on Site-wide ⌘K / Ctrl-K quick search overlay.
3. Save your changes.

From then on, pressing the shortcut on any page of your site opens a search overlay over the current page. Visitors type their query, see matching documents from your library, and jump straight to what they need without navigating away first.

When should I use the overlay instead of a search block?

Both search your document library — the difference is where the search lives.

• Use the overlay when documents are central to your site and visitors search often — an intranet, a client portal, a resource hub. Regulars learn the shortcut and reach any document from wherever they are.
• Use the search block or [filedeck_search] shortcode when you want a visible search box in a specific place, such as the top of a documents page. A visible box is more discoverable for first-time visitors, who may not know keyboard shortcuts exist.

The two work well together: place a search block on your main library page for discoverability, and enable the overlay as the fast path for people who visit regularly.

FAQ

Does the overlay work on every page?

Yes. Once the toggle is on, the shortcut works site-wide — visitors can be on any page, not just a page with a document library on it.

Is this a Pro feature?

No. The quick search overlay is part of the free plugin. For a comparison of what each tier includes, see Free vs Pro.

What does the shortcut actually search?

Your FileDeck document library — the same library your search blocks and library pages use.

Can visitors still search without the keyboard shortcut?

Yes. Libraries have instant search built in, and you can place a search box anywhere with the [filedeck_search] shortcode or its matching block.