How to Switch Tabs in Windows 11 File Explorer

Switching tabs in Windows 11 File Explorer lets you jump between different folders quickly without opening new windows. File Explorer’s tabbed interface, first introduced in Windows 11 builds like the one released in October 2021, puts navigation controls right at the top of each window.

This means you can have several folders open in a single File Explorer window, much like web browser tabs. This makes it much easier to copy files between locations or compare documents.

Instead of juggling multiple File Explorer windows, you simply click on the tab for the folder you want to view. This guide shows you exactly how to move between these tabs.

Switch between multiple tabs with File Explorer in 🪟 Windows 11

As mentioned, Windows 11’s latest File Explorer has tabs on its title bar to help you work across multiple folder locations at once.

Here’s how to switch between tabs when multiple are open in File Explorer.

First, open File Explorer or use the shortcut key combination: Windows key + E.

While File Explorer is open, press CTRL + T to open a new tab.

You can also click the Add new tab (+) button on the title bar. Alternatively, right-click on a folder and select Open in new tab, as shown below.

When multiple tabs are open, you can switch between them using your mouse or keyboard. To use your mouse, click the tab you wish to view.

For keyboard shortcuts, press CTRL + 1 through 9 to jump to one of the first nine tabs, ordered from left to right.

Press CTRL + Tab to switch to the next tab on the right.

Press CTRL + SHIFT + Tab to switch to the previous tab on the left.

That should cover it!

Conclusion:

• To switch between tabs in 📁 File Explorer, you can use keyboard shortcuts like Ctrl+1 through 9 to access the first nine tabs, or use the Ctrl+Tab and Ctrl+Shift+Tab combination to navigate between tabs.
• The introduction of tabs in 📁 File Explorer in Windows 11 enhances productivity and enables simultaneous work across multiple folder locations.
• We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into efficiently navigating and utilizing the tab feature within 📁 File Explorer.