Windows 11: Manage Multiple Folders with File Explorer Tabs
Group multiple folders together using explorer tabs. Open Explorer with Win+E and create a new tab with [+] in the top tab row or Ctrl+T. Each tab displays a separate folder within a single window, allowing you to move between copy sources and destinations without confusing them.
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Who this guide is for and what to prepare
- Users who want to streamline daily operations with Windows 11
- Users who want to try out the feature in a way that allows them to restore the settings.
What you need
- Save the file you are working on and try it with test data that does not include personal information.
- Closing the tab doesn't delete the file, but it doesn't close the window while copying/moving. Separate confirmation will be displayed for places that require administrator privileges.
Purpose and prerequisites
Group multiple folders together using explorer tabs. Open Explorer with Win+E and create a new tab with [+] in the top tab row or Ctrl+T. Each tab displays a separate folder within a single window, allowing you to move between copy sources and destinations without confusing them.
Closing the tab doesn't delete the file, but it doesn't close the window while copying/moving. Separate confirmation will be displayed for places that require administrator privileges.
Configure the feature
Open Explorer with Win+E and create a new tab with [+] in the top tab row or Ctrl+T.
- Open Explorer with Win+E and create a new tab with [+] in the top tab row or Ctrl+T
Try it out and see the results
Enter the folder path in the address bar on each tab. Drag tabs to change their order and move them using Ctrl+Tab/Ctrl+Shift+Tab. Each tab displays a separate folder within a single window, allowing you to move between copy sources and destinations without confusing them.
Create 3 tabs with Ctrl+T and open Documents, Downloads, and Images. Go back and forth with Ctrl+Tab and Ctrl+Shift+Tab, then drag the tabs to change their order. Use copy and paste for important files, open them at the destination, and then organize the source.
Open Explorer with Win+E, download the first tab, and make the tab you created a document with Ctrl+T. You can move the file you want to move by pressing Ctrl+X on the original tab, or by clicking on the destination tab and pressing Ctrl+V. If you want to keep a copy, use Ctrl+C. By looking at the path in the address bar before pasting, you can reduce the chance of accidentally entering another folder with the same name.
- Enter the folder path in the address bar on each tab. Drag tabs to change order and move with Ctrl+Tab/Ctrl+Shift+Tab
- Each tab displays a separate folder within a single window, allowing you to move between copy sources and destinations without confusing them.
Turn it off and restore the previous setup
Close the current tab with Ctrl+W or tab x. If you want to separate the windows, right-click the folder and use [Open in new window].
- Close the current tab with Ctrl+W or tab x. If you want to separate windows, right-click the folder and use "Open in new window"
Limitations and requirements
- Closing the tab doesn't delete the file, but it doesn't close the window while copying/moving. Separate confirmation will be displayed for places that require administrator privileges.
- If the settings are fixed on an organization-managed PC, check with the administrator instead of using unofficial methods to circumvent the policy.
Frequently asked questions
Will the folder be deleted when I close the tab?
This operation only closes the tab you are viewing, and does not delete folders or files.
How to use copy and move differently?
Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V copy, Ctrl+X and Ctrl+V move. Check the path of the destination tab before pasting.
Official sources and verification date
Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.