Windows File Explorer helps you find, open, organize, and manage files and folders on your PC and in the cloud.

The Open tab on the File menu shows a list of files you've recently opened, and it includes links to places where you commonly store files.

Use Windows Search in the taskbar or File Explorer to quickly locate files, apps, and settings. Integrated search helps return relevant results quickly, reducing time spent navigating folders.

Learn what file name extensions are, which extensions are common in Windows, and how to view them in File Explorer.

To create installation media, go to the software download website, where step-by-step instructions can be found. On that website, you can select a version of Windows and create installation media on a …

Saving a file to OneDrive or SharePoint allows you to access it on any device and enables features such as AutoSave and Version History, which can help prevent data loss if your file closes unexpectedly.

Just right-click the file or folder in your OneDrive folder on your computer and select Share a OneDrive link. This will copy a link to your clipboard that you can paste wherever you want to send it.

If you turn on Other Windows settings, Windows also syncs some device settings (for things like printers and mouse options), File Explorer settings, and notification preferences.

Oct 14, 2025 · To change a default app, you can do either of the following: Set a default for a file type or link type In the search bar, type the file extension or protocol you wish to change, such as .txt. Select …

This article walks through simple troubleshooting steps—such as checking for updates, restarting your device, and resetting Windows—to help restore File Explorer and get it working again.