How to Enable Checkboxes in Windows 11 File Explorer

This guide shows you how to turn checkboxes on or off in File Explorer for Windows 11.

Windows lets you add checkboxes in File Explorer to make selecting many files at once much easier.

Why use checkboxes?

Checkboxes are very helpful if you use a touchscreen or a tablet. Even if you use a regular mouse, you might find this method easier than the traditional way of picking multiple files.

What happens when you enable them?

Small boxes will appear next to every file and folder. You just click the boxes to pick the items you need. This makes selecting a large group of files much faster.

If you change your mind, you can follow these same steps to turn them off.

How to enable checkboxes in File Explorer

Follow these steps to turn on your checkboxes:

1. Open File Explorer..
2. Look at the top of the window. Click the View button on the toolbar.
3. A menu will drop down. Find Show and click the arrow next to it.
4. Click Item check boxes from the list.

Once you do this, you will see small checkboxes next to your files and folders. You do not need admin privileges to change this setting.

Summary

Adding checkboxes to File Explorer makes picking multiple files much simpler. This works great for touchscreen users and anyone who wants a clear, visual way to manage their files. Turning this feature on or off is quick, and you can change your mind at any time.