Why does windows explorer (not internet explorer) open an internet connection to 65.55.11.179 when I initiate a file search? Seems a little intrusive to me1 person needs an answerI do too

Because it's searching Microsoft's Knowledge Base for your answer. That IP address belongs to Microsoft.MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!

Yes I know it is a Microsoft IP but it is a file search for an item on my computer's drives which has nothing to do with Microsoft's Knowledge Base. There absolutely no reason to forward my search parameters to Microsoft.

It isn't forwarding your "search parameters" to Microsoft. That's just paranoia talking. At some point early on when you first used Help or Search you were asked if you wanted to include online resources and you said "yes". If you are truly concerned about this, don't use XP's search function at all. It isn't very good anyway. Use the free Agent Ransack instead which is far better and won't do anything to make you uncomfortable. http://www.mythicsoft.com/agentransack/ There are lots of other real things to fret about. If you are running out of them, I'll be glad to give you part of my list. ;-)MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!

Right