How to Use File Explorer Tabs in Windows 11

Master multitasking in Windows 11 by organizing your workflow with File Explorer tabs. Learn to create, manage, and close tabs efficiently.

1. Open a new tab. Launch File Explorer from the taskbar or via the Start menu. Click the plus (+) icon located in the top tab bar to instantiate a new, blank instance of File Explorer.
2. Switch between active tabs. Click on any visible tab header in the File Explorer title bar to switch your active view. Use keyboard shortcuts to cycle through your open tabs in sequence.
3. Rearrange tab order. Click and hold the left mouse button on a tab header. Drag the tab to the left or right along the bar to reposition it relative to your other open tabs.
4. Close current tabs. Click the small 'x' button on the right side of the active tab header to close it. Alternatively, use the keyboard shortcut to close the currently focused tab immediately.
5. Duplicate existing tabs. Right-click any tab header to open the context menu. Select 'Duplicate tab' to spawn a new tab that mirrors the current directory and view settings of your active window.