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How to Use Undo and Redo in Windows 11 File Explorer

Richard
Written by
Richard
Feb 4, 2026 Updated Jun 19, 2026 2 min read
How to Use Undo and Redo in Windows 11 File Explorer
How to Use Undo and Redo in Windows 11 File Explorer

Made a mistake in Windows 11 File Explorer, like deleting a file or moving a folder accidentally? You can quickly fix it using Undo and Redo.

Undo reverses your most recent file management action in Windows 11 File Explorer. Redo reapplies an action you just undid. These commands help manage files when performing many steps. Windows 11 File Explorer can undo up to 100 of your last actions.

Windows 11 File Explorer's Undo function lets users reverse an action immediately after performing it by pressing Ctrl+Z. If a user accidentally undoes a desired action, they can use the Redo function by pressing Ctrl+Y.

⚡ Quick Answer

Press Ctrl+Z to undo your last action in File Explorer, such as deleting a file. To reapply an action you just undid, press Ctrl+Y to redo it. These shortcuts help you quickly fix mistakes.

What Is File Explorer?

File Explorer is the app you use to see and organize all your files and folders on Windows 11. You can copy, move, delete, or rename files with a few clicks.

What Are Undo and Redo?

Undo

Undo takes back your last action. Deleted the wrong file by accident? Undo brings it back. This saves you time hunting for something you’ve lost.

Redo

💡Tip
Redo does the opposite of Undo. If you press Undo by mistake, Redo puts the action back. What happens? The change you just reversed happens again.

These two commands help you fix mistakes fast without stress.

How to Use Undo and Redo in File Explorer

  1. Open File Explorer on your computer.
  2. Delete, copy, move, or rename a file or folder.
  3. To undo the action, right-click in the File Explorer window. Select Undo from the menu. Or press CTRL + Z on your keyboard.
  4. To redo an action you just undid, right-click again. Pick Redo from the menu. Or press CTRL + Y.

You can easily undo or redo actions in Windows 11 File Explorer, like deleting, copying, moving, or renaming files and folders.

Undo command in File Explorer
Undo command in File Explorer

Right-click menu showing the Undo command

Redo command in File Explorer
Redo command in File Explorer

Right-click menu showing the Redo command

Quick Tips

  • Press CTRL + Z to undo your last action fast.
  • Press CTRL + Y to redo an action you just undid.
  • These commands work for deleting, moving, copying, and renaming files.

Summary

Undo and Redo are super helpful tools in Windows 11 File Explorer for fixing mistakes quickly. They let you reverse or repeat actions with just a few clicks or keyboard shortcuts, saving you time and hassle when you accidentally delete or move something.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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