A service search network system includes a plurality of file search nodes. Each file search node has a file repository that stores files searchable by a file search request. A first and a second service search node is provided, each having a service repository for storing services that can be searched. When the first service search node receives a service search request for a particular service stored in the second service search node, the first service search node formats the service search request into a format recognized by the file search nodes such that the service request can be propagated to the second service search node via some of the file search nodes. The structure of each service search node is also described. A method of searching a specific service in a search network having file search nodes and service search nodes is also described.