Windows File Explorer is an essential tool for navigating and managing files and folders on a Windows operating system. However, its default features may not always be adequate for professional or advanced users. One such feature that is frequently requested is the ability to add tabs to File Explorer. Tabs allow users to organize and switch between multiple folders within the same window, reducing clutter and improving productivity. While Windows File Explorer does not offer a native tabbed interface, there are several third-party solutions available, such as QTTabBar.

QTTabBar is a free and open-source tool that adds tabs and other advanced features to Windows File Explorer. The installation process is hassle-free, and the application integrates seamlessly with File Explorer. Once installed, here’s how to add tabs to Windows File Explorer with QTTabBar:

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Launch File Explorer by pressing the Windows key + E, or by clicking on the File Explorer icon on the taskbar.

Step 2: Enable QTTabBar

After installing QTTabBar, it should load automatically when you open File Explorer. If it doesn’t, go to the File Explorer menu bar and select View > Options > QTTabBar.

Step 3: Add a New Tab

To add a new tab, click on the plus (+) icon next to the existing tab. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + T or right-click on a folder and select “Open in New Tab”.

Step 4: Switch Between Tabs

To switch between tabs, click on the desired tab or use the keyboard shortcuts Ctrl + Tab (to cycle forward) or Ctrl + Shift + Tab (to cycle backward).

Step 5: Close Tabs

To close a tab, click on the X icon on the tab or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + W.

Step 6: Customize QTTabBar

QTTabBar offers many customizations to tweak the interface to your liking. You can change the tab color, grouping, sorting, and more by going to the QTTabBar menu > Options.