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    Windows Guides
    Intermediate
    1 min read 6 stepsJanuary 26, 2026Verified January 2026

    How to Use File Explorer

    Master File Explorer to browse, organize, and manage all files on your Windows PC.

    In this guide (6 steps):

    1. 1.Open File Explorer
    2. 2.Navigate using the sidebar
    3. 3.Use the address bar
    4. 4.Change the view
    5. 5.Search for files
    6. 6.Use tabs
    1

    Open File Explorer

    ~15s
    Press ⊞ Win+E or click the folder icon on the taskbar to open File Explorer.
    2

    Navigate using the sidebar

    ~15s
    Use Quick Access, This PC, Desktop, Documents, and Downloads in the left panel to navigate.
    3

    Use the address bar

    ~15s
    Click the address bar to type a direct path or folder name to jump to any location.
    4

    Change the view

    ~15s
    Use the View menu to switch between Icons, List, Details, and Tiles views depending on your needs.
    5

    Search for files

    ~15s
    Use the search box in the top-right to search within the current folder or across your PC.
    6

    Use tabs

    ~15s
    In Windows 11, press Ctrl+T to open a new tab in File Explorer for side-by-side file management.

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    Official Resources

    Microsoft SupportHow-To Geek — WindowsGCFGlobal — Windows Basics

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

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    How to Use File Explorer — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure