You can now set this versatile file explorer as your default on Windows 11

Files Modern Explorer Lede 4
Files Modern Explorer Lede 4 (Image credit: Future)

What you need to know

  • Third-party file explorer Files recently received an update.
  • The update adds the ability to set Files as the default file manager on Windows 11 or Windows 10.
  • The app also gained support for a new shortcut to copy file paths as well as several other new features.

The update to Files adds some other useful features, including the ability to use CTRL+SHIFT+C to copy a file path.

Here's everything that's new in Files:

  • Added Ctrl+Shift+C shortcut to copy file path
  • Added an option to set Files as the default file [manager]
  • Show file operation progress on taskbar & continue operations when minimized
  • Added individual options for amount of clicks to open files and folders
  • Added group by path option for libraries
  • Respect default app for zip files
  • Use proper tab name on the home page
  • Added caching to load thumbnails faster
  • Added options to import/export settings
  • Improved reliability of the search experience
  • Added support for choosing custom icons

The full changelog for the app also lists the bug fixes it received.

We reviewed Files back when it was in preview. It's due for a re-review, as it received a major update to align with Windows 11.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a news writer and apps editor for Windows Central with 11+ years of experience. A Nottingham Trent journalism graduate, Sean has covered the industry’s arc from the Lumia era to the launch of Windows 11 and generative AI. Having started at Thrifter, he uses his expertise in price tracking to help readers find genuine hardware value.

Beyond tech news, Sean is a UK sports media pioneer. In 2017, he became one of the first to stream via smartphone and is an expert in AP Capture systems. A tech-forward coach, he was named 2024 BAFA Youth Coach of the Year. He is focused on using technology—from AI to Clipchamp—to gain a practical edge.