How do I use the new File Explorer in Windows 11?

Windows 11 introduces a refreshed File Explorer with a new design and some additional features. Here’s how to use the new File Explorer in Windows 11:

1. Open File Explorer: Click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar, or press the Windows key + E on your keyboard to launch File Explorer.
2. Navigate through files and folders: Use the navigation pane on the left side to access Quick Access, OneDrive, This PC, and Network locations. Click on a folder to view its contents in the main pane. You can also use the address bar at the top to enter a specific path or search for files and folders.
3. New context menus: Right-click on a file or folder to access the new context menu, which offers a cleaner design and quick access to commonly used actions, such as Cut, Copy, Paste, Rename, and Delete. You can also click “Show more options” to access the classic context menu with additional options.
4. Use the command bar: At the top of the File Explorer window, you’ll find a command bar with buttons for common actions like Cut, Copy, Paste, Rename, Share, and more. This replaces the ribbon interface found in previous versions of Windows.
5. Customize the view: You can change the way files and folders are displayed by clicking the “View” button in the command bar. Choose between different view modes like List, Details, Tiles, and Large icons. You can also enable or disable the preview pane, navigation pane, and details pane from the View menu.
6. Sorting and grouping: Click the “Sort by” button in the command bar to sort your files and folders by various criteria, such as name, date, type, or size. You can also use the “Group by” option to organize your files and folders into groups based on these criteria.
7. Search for files and folders: Use the search bar in the top-right corner to search for files and folders within the current directory. Type your search query and press Enter to see the results.
8. Manage files with drag and drop: You can move or copy files and folders by selecting them and dragging them to a new location in the navigation pane or another File Explorer window.
9. Create new folders and files: Click the “New folder” button in the command bar to create a new folder. To create a new file, right-click on an empty space, select “New” from the context menu, and choose the desired file type.
10. Access file and folder properties: Right-click on a file or folder and select “Properties” from the context menu to view and edit its properties, such as attributes, security settings, and sharing options.

The new File Explorer in Windows 11 offers a more modern and streamlined user experience while retaining the familiar functionality of previous versions. The simplified interface and updated context menus make it easier to manage your files and folders efficiently.