Utilizing the Explorer Tab Utility for Effective Management of Windows Explorer Tabs

Since the arrival of Windows 11, users have been eagerly anticipating the introduction of tabs in the File Explorer—a feature that Microsoft has now finally delivered. However, the implementation leaves much to be desired when compared to tabbed file managers on other operating systems. Users have experienced issues with tab management, like smoothness in opening tabs and the occasional unpredictability in rearranging them. Enter Explorer Tab Utility, an innovative solution designed to enhance the tabbed browsing experience within Windows File Explorer.

What is the Explorer Tab Utility?The Explorer Tab Utility is a lightweight, open-source tool that revolutionizes your file management experience in Windows 11. It allows you to manage multiple directories seamlessly—opening each one in a separate tab, similar to how web browsers function when handling different websites. This way, users no longer have to contend with a cluttered desktop filled with multiple windows, making for a more streamlined and productive workflow.

The advantages are substantial: not only does the Explorer Tab Utility enable you to open different folders within a single window, but it also allows for easy tab manipulation. Switch between tabs effortlessly, set custom hotkeys for quick navigation, and maintain a clean workspace—all of these features contribute to a more efficient file management system.

Step 1: Download and Install the Explorer Tab Utility

Navigate to the Explorer Tab Utility’s GitHub page. Click on ‘Releases’ in the ‘Getting Started’ section to access the latest versions of the utility.

On the Releases page, look for the ‘Assets’ section and select the version suitable for you. For the majority of users, ‘ExplorerTabUtility_v2.1.0_x64_NetFW4.8.1.zip’ is recommended.

Alternatively, you can also launch Command Prompt from the Start menu and enter the command winget install w4po. ExplorerTabUtility to install the tool directly via the command line.

Once the.zip file has been downloaded, extract its contents and double-click on ‘ExplorerTabUtility.exe’ to open the application. Skip this step if you have installed it through Command Prompt.

You should now see Explorer Tab Utility operating, visible in the taskbar’s overflow section where hidden icons appear.

Step 2: Managing Tabs with Explorer Tab Utility

Open File Explorer, and you’ll find it’s functioning as expected. Initiate another instance, and you should notice it now opens as a tab rather than a new window—signifying your new tab management solution is operational.

Switch between tabs by clicking the desired tab. It’s as easy as a mouse click!

To rearrange tabs, click and drag them left or right according to your preference. Add new tabs quickly by clicking the ‘+’ icon located to the right of existing tabs.

Want to separate a tab into its own window? Simple! Just click and drag it out of the current window. The reverse is also an option; drag an existing window into another to merge them into tabs.
Keep navigating with convenience! Right-click on a tab reveals options for closing tabs and reopening recently closed ones that may have slipped through your fingers.

To open several folders as tabs simultaneously, select all desired folders and double-click one of them.
Explore smarter! Customize hotkeys for rapid access to specific folders or those with frequently used files by right-clicking the program icon in the taskbar and selecting ‘Settings’.

Upon accessing the settings, view default shortcut keys for various tasks. To modify a shortcut, click on it and enter your desired key combination. Disable unnecessary shortcuts via the toggles on the left.

Additionally, you can specify whether certain hotkeys should function globally (outside File Explorer) using the dropdown selection feature.

Already have shortcuts you don’t need? Feel free to delete them using the designated buttons. You can also import, export, and save your hotkey configurations without hassle.

Important Considerations

If you want the Explorer Tab Utility to launch automatically when your computer starts, right-click its icon in the taskbar and select ‘Add to startup’.This saves you the hassle of manual startup each session.
Some antivirus programs might mistakenly flag Explorer Tab Utility as malware, but rest assured, this is a false positive. As an open-source tool, you can inspect and even modify its underlying code. VirusTotal results confirm its safety.
The development team continuously enhances Explorer Tab Utility, so keep an eye out for exciting updates and added functionalities in the future!
If you wish to revert to the default tabs experience of Windows Explorer, removing Explorer Tab Utility can be easily done through the ‘Apps’ section of Settings or ‘Programs and Features’ in the Control Panel.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Explorer Tab Utility?

The Explorer Tab Utility is a third-party tool designed to enhance tab management within Windows File Explorer by allowing users to open multiple directories in tabs, similarly to how web browsers operate.

2. How do I install Explorer Tab Utility?

You can install Explorer Tab Utility by downloading it from its GitHub page or via Command Prompt using the command winget install w4po. ExplorerTabUtility.

3. Will my antivirus flag the Explorer Tab Utility?

Some antivirus programs may flag Explorer Tab Utility as malware due to its nature as a third-party application. However, this is typically a false positive, as the tool is open-source and safe to use, confirmed by VirusTotal scans.

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