9. How to use File Explorer in Windows 11

File Explorer is an essential Windows 11 tool that allows users to access, manage, and organize their files and folders. This chapter of our e-book will guide you on how to effectively use File Explorer in Windows 11.

Opening File Explorer

To open File Explorer, click the folder icon in the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. If you don't see the icon, you can open File Explorer by pressing Windows key + E on your keyboard.

File Explorer Interface

When you open File Explorer, you will see an interface divided into three main parts. The sidebar on the left shows quick access locations such as Desktop, Downloads, Documents, and Pictures. In the middle, you will find the content of the selected location in the sidebar. On the right, you will see the details pane that shows information about the selected file or folder.

Navigating File Explorer

To navigate between files and folders, you can click the locations in the sidebar or the content in the middle. If you want to go back to the previous folder, you can use the back button at the top. You can also type the folder path in the address bar at the top.

Managing Files and Folders

In File Explorer, you can create, rename, move, copy, delete, and search files and folders. To create a new folder, right-click on the location where you want to create the folder and select 'New' > 'Folder'. To rename a file or folder, right-click on it and select 'Rename'. To move or copy a file or folder, right-click it, select 'Cut' or 'Copy', navigate to the location where you want to move or copy and right-click and select 'Paste'.

To delete a file or folder, right-click on it and select 'Delete'. The file or folder will be moved to the Recycle Bin. If you want to permanently delete the file or folder, you can press Shift + Delete on your keyboard. To search for a file or folder, you can type the name in the search box at the top right.

Viewing and Sorting Files and Folders

In File Explorer, you can change the way files and folders are displayed. To change the view, click on the 'View' button at the top and select the desired view such as Large Icons, Small Icons, List, Details, etc. To sort the files and folders, click on the 'Sort by' button at the top and select the desired option such as Name, Modified date, Type, Size, etc.

File and Folder Properties

To view the properties of a file or folder, right-click on it and select 'Properties'. In the properties window, you can see detailed information about the file or folder, such as type, size, location, creation date, modification date, etc.

In summary, File Explorer is a powerful and versatile tool that allows you to manage your files and folders efficiently in Windows 11. With practice, you will become an expert in using File Explorer.

We hope this chapter has been helpful to you. In the next chapter, we'll talk about how to use Cortana, Windows 11's virtual assistant.

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