Explorer++: A Powerful Windows Explorer Alternative

The Importance of Efficient File Management

A significant portion of a typical computer user’s time is dedicated to web browsing. Following this, file management often occupies a considerable amount of time, particularly for those not engaged in specialized computer work. Utilizing appropriate tools can substantially improve both the speed and ease of these tasks.

While Windows Explorer, the default file manager in Windows, is adequate – and has improved with versions like Windows 7 – numerous alternative tools offer compelling advantages. Explorer++ stands out as a noteworthy Windows Explorer alternative worthy of consideration.

Exploring Explorer++: A Portable Solution

Explorer++ can be downloaded from its official source as a relatively small ZIP file. Being a portable software application, it requires no installation; simply extract the contents of the ZIP file and execute the program to begin using it.

Explorer++ is equipped with a wealth of features that surpass the capabilities of the standard Windows Explorer. Let's examine some of the key elements that establish its value as a superior file management solution.

Core Features and Interface

Upon launching, Explorer++ presents a familiar interface, initially displaying all drives connected to your computer – akin to the "Computer" screen in Windows Explorer.

A sidebar on the left provides a traditional folder tree view. The main window at the bottom showcases details about the currently selected items, while the status bar delivers pertinent information.

Tabbed Browsing: A Game Changer

Perhaps the most impactful feature of Explorer++ is its implementation of tabbed browsing for folders. This significantly streamlines file movement, copying, and organization.

Standard tab operations are fully supported, including duplication, locking, and binding tabs to specific folders. Furthermore, Explorer++ minimizes clutter in the right-click context menu, adding only an option to open a folder in a new tab, with all other functions accessible through menus and shortcuts.

Enhanced Functionality and Efficiency

Within Explorer++, opening a folder grants access to a range of powerful options via the file menu – and corresponding shortcuts. These include saving directory listings, copying file paths, and launching a command prompt directly within the folder.

For instance, saving a directory listing is as simple as pressing Alt+F, then L. Quickly moving or copying selected files can be achieved with Ctrl+Shift+M or Ctrl+Shift+C, respectively, followed by selecting the destination folder, bypassing the need to navigate to it first.

Additional Tools and Capabilities

Explorer++ offers a variety of other useful commands. It can, for example, split large files into smaller chunks – such as 50MB segments – to accommodate the file size limitations of certain cloud storage services. This function is found under Actions > Split file.

Conversely, it can also merge these split files back into their original form. The application also provides a secure file deletion feature, overwriting disk space to prevent data recovery.

Customization and Integration

Explorer++ can be utilized as a supplementary file browser alongside Windows Explorer, or as a complete replacement. These preferences can be easily adjusted through Tools > Options.

You can also specify the folder Explorer++ displays upon startup. Beyond Explorer++-specific settings, you can modify general file and folder behaviors, such as displaying file extensions or enabling single-click folder opening.

A Powerful and Versatile Alternative

Explorer++ is a highly effective application that can complement Windows Explorer or serve as a standalone file browser. Its tabbed browsing, bookmarking capabilities, and extensive command and search options make it a compelling alternative to the default Windows file manager.

If a complete replacement seems excessive, it can also function as a valuable secondary file manager. Its portability and installation-free nature make it particularly useful in situations where enhanced functionality beyond Windows Explorer is required.

Further Exploration

For those who prefer to enhance Windows Explorer, numerous add-ons are available. If Explorer++ piques your interest, exploring five more file managers before making a final decision is recommended.

Ultimately, the choice rests on your preference: a customized Windows Explorer or one of the many feature-rich alternatives?