How to Use Tabs in File Explorer in Windows 11 (Like a Web Browser)

Windows 11 finally brings a long‑awaited feature: tabs in File Explorer. Just like in Chrome, Edge, or any modern browser, you can now open multiple folders in a single window — keeping your desktop clean and making file management much faster.

This guide shows you how to use tabs efficiently and work like a pro.

Step 1: Open File Explorer

This opens the main file management interface in Windows.

1. Press Windows + E on your keyboard.

2. File Explorer will open instantly.

Step 2: Open a New Tab

Tabs let you open multiple folders in one window.

1. Click the plus (+) button at the top of File Explorer.

2. A new tab will appear next to your current one.

3. Pro Tip: Press Ctrl + T to open a new tab instantly.

Step 3: Switch Between Tabs

Tabs work exactly like browser tabs.

1. Click any tab at the top to switch to it.

2. Use Ctrl + Tab to cycle through tabs quickly.

Step 4: Close a Tab

You can close tabs individually without closing the entire window.

1. Hover over a tab.

2. Click the X button on the tab.

3. Or press Ctrl + W to close the active tab.

Step 5: Move Files Between Tabs

Tabs make file transfers much easier.

1. Open two folders in separate tabs.

2. Drag a file from one tab into another tab.

3. The target tab will open automatically.

4. Drop the file into the folder.

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• How to Automatically Empty the Recycle Bin in Windows

Important Note

Tabs are available only in Windows 11 22H2 and later. Older builds of Windows 11 do not include this feature.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Proceed at your own risk.

How to Rename Multiple Files at Once in Windows Instantly

 

Illustration created by AI

1. Select Your Files: Open the folder containing the files you want to rename. Highlight all of them by clicking and dragging your mouse, or simply press Ctrl + A on your keyboard to select everything at once.

2. Trigger the Rename Action: With the files highlighted, press the F2 key on your keyboard. Alternatively, you can right-click on the first file in your selection and choose Rename.

3. Type the New Name: Type the new name you want for your files (for example, "VacationPhoto") and press Enter.

Stop wasting hours renaming your downloaded files or holiday photos one by one! Windows will instantly rename every single selected file and automatically add a neat number next to each one. It’s the ultimate time-saver for a messy folder!

Disclaimer: For educational and informational purposes only. Proceed at your own risk. The author is not responsible for any system errors, data loss, or hardware damage. Always back up important files before making changes to your PC.

How to Use Windows Search to Find Any File Instantly

 Windows Search is a powerful tool that helps you locate documents, apps, and settings in seconds without browsing through folders.

1. Click the Search icon on your Taskbar or press the Win + S shortcut.

2. Start typing the name of the file, folder, or application you are looking for.

3. Results will appear in real-time as you type.

4. Use the filters at the top (Apps, Documents, Settings) to narrow down your search.

5. Click the file to open it, or select Open file location on the right to see where it is stored on your drive.

Disclaimer: For educational and informational purposes only. Proceed at your own risk. The author is not responsible for any system errors, data loss, or hardware damage. Always back up important files before making changes to your PC.