How to Enable Checkboxes in Windows 11 File Explorer
Checkboxes in Windows 11 File Explorer add a small tick box next to every item so you can select multiple files and folders without holding down the Ctrl key. This built-in option speeds up how you copy, move, or delete batches of files, especially if you use a touchscreen or prefer clicking over keyboard shortcuts.
You can turn on these checkboxes directly inside File Explorer in just two clicks, without downloading extra software.
Click View, then Show, and finally Item check boxes in File Explorer to enable checkboxes. This adds small squares next to files and folders, allowing for easy multi-selection. The setting can be toggled on or off anytime without administrator privileges.
How to enable checkboxes in File Explorer
You can enable checkboxes Windows 11 File Explorer options by opening any folder, clicking the View button in the top toolbar, hovering over Show, and checking the box for Item check boxes. This adds small check boxes next to your files and folders, letting you pick multiple items with your mouse without holding down the Ctrl key.
- Open File Explorer .
- Click the View button in the top toolbar.
- Hover over Show in the dropdown menu.
- Click Item check boxes to select it.
You’ll see the boxes right away. No admin privileges are needed for this change.
How to disable checkboxes
Users can hide item checkboxes in Windows 11 File Explorer if the boxes are distracting. To hide them, follow the same steps used to enable checkboxes. Clicking "Item checkboxes" again removes the checkmark, making the checkboxes disappear from the file view.
Troubleshooting persistent checkboxes
If checkboxes stay visible in Windows 11 even after you turn them off, try restarting the Windows Explorer process via Task Manager .
Advanced Fix: Using the Registry Editor
You can enable checkboxes Windows 11 through the Registry Editor (a database storing low-level system settings) if the standard menu options do not work. This method lets you force the setting on by changing a specific value in the system database. Make sure you follow the path carefully because mistakes in the registry can cause system problems.
The Windows Registry Editor controls File Explorer checkboxes. Locate the "AutoCheckSelect" setting; changing its value to 1 turns on checkboxes, while 0 turns them off. A computer restart makes these changes active.
Tablet Mode vs. Desktop Mode
Windows 11 automatically adjusts the interface for touch devices. In Tablet Mode, checkboxes are often enabled by default to make selection faster for fingers. If you switch to a desktop setup, you might prefer to turn them off to save screen space.
Summary
Using item checkboxes in Windows 11 File Explorer speeds up file management, whether you use a mouse or a touchscreen.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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