Opening File Explorer in Windows 10 is a breeze and something you’ll likely do multiple times daily. All you need to do is click the File Explorer icon on your taskbar, press the Windows + E keys on your keyboard, or find it in the Start menu. This quick guide will walk you through all three methods in detail.
How to Open File Explorer in Windows 10
File Explorer is your gateway to navigate through all the files and folders on your computer. Here’s how you can open it easily using various methods.
Step 1: Click the File Explorer Icon
Locate and click on the File Explorer icon on your taskbar.
The File Explorer icon looks like a little yellow folder and is usually located at the bottom of your screen. If it’s not there, you can pin it for easy access later.
Step 2: Use the Keyboard Shortcut
Press the Windows + E keys on your keyboard simultaneously.
This method is a bit of a lifesaver if you prefer using keyboard shortcuts. The Windows key is probably the one with the Microsoft logo on it, and the “E” is for Explorer. Simple, right?
Step 3: Open from the Start Menu
Click the Start button and find File Explorer in the list or type “File Explorer” in the search bar.
You can also pin File Explorer to the Start Menu for quicker access next time. Just right-click on it and select “Pin to Start.”
After completing one of these actions, File Explorer will open, showing your Quick Access items by default. Whether you chose to click the icon, press the shortcut, or use the Start menu, you’ll have access to all your folders and files.
Tips for Opening File Explorer in Windows 10
- Pin to Taskbar: Right-click the File Explorer icon when it’s open and select “Pin to Taskbar” for one-click access.
- Create a Shortcut: Right-click on your desktop, go to New, and then Shortcut. Enter “explorer” as the location to make a quick-access shortcut.
- Customize Quick Access: Pin frequently used folders to Quick Access for faster navigation.
- Voice Commands: If you use Cortana, you can say, “Open File Explorer.”
- Use Run Command: Press Windows + R and type “explorer” to open it quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is File Explorer?
File Explorer is a file management application that’s a part of Windows 10, allowing you to browse and manage the files and folders on your computer.
Can I add File Explorer to my Start Menu?
Yes, you can right-click the File Explorer icon and select “Pin to Start” to add it to your Start Menu.
How do I open File Explorer with a command prompt?
You can open File Explorer by typing “explorer” in a Command Prompt window and pressing Enter.
Is there a way to customize the default view in File Explorer?
Yes, you can customize the default view by changing it in the View tab and then applying it to all folders via Folder Options.
Can I open multiple File Explorer windows?
Absolutely, you can open multiple File Explorer windows by repeating any of the methods mentioned above.
Summary
- Click the File Explorer icon.
- Press Windows + E keys.
- Open from the Start menu.
Conclusion
Opening File Explorer in Windows 10 is straightforward and versatile, with multiple methods catering to different user preferences. Whether you’re a mouse-clicker kind of person or a keyboard shortcut enthusiast, you have options. Remember, mastering these simple steps can make your daily tasks much more efficient. For more advanced use, take advantage of tips like pinning to the taskbar or using voice commands. The more familiar you become with these methods, the smoother your Windows 10 experience will be. So go ahead, give these tips a try, and you’ll be navigating your files like a pro in no time!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.