A data file management and search method based on file attributes is disclosed. At least one data file, externally imported or generated by a user, is retrieved. Attributes of the data file are edited, a virtual catalog corresponding to the data file is generated, and a catalog tree is built according to the data file and the virtual catalog. The virtual catalog and the data file are displayed by a user interface. A search operation is performed based on a search command to locate at least one required virtual catalog or data file among multiple data files and virtual catalogs. A basic operation is implemented on the located virtual catalog or data file.