Tabbed Explorer for Vista - Add Tabs to Windows Explorer

Enhancing Windows Explorer with QTTabBar

Since transitioning to Windows Vista, many users have expressed a desire for a tabbed explorer feature. Beyond this, a common request has been the reinstatement of the "Up" button, previously available in Windows XP. Reader feedback led to the discovery of a solution addressing both needs: QTTabBar, a versatile add-on compatible with both Vista and XP.

Installation Process

The installation of this application differs slightly from standard procedures, as it doesn't include a traditional installer. First, download the QTTabBar file and extract its contents to a secure location.

To begin the installation, right-click the QTTabBar.exe file and select "Run as administrator." This will launch the installation screen, which primarily registers the necessary components without altering file locations. Proceed by clicking "Next" and then "Continue."

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Following this step, a system restart is required. You can either log off and back on, or terminate and restart the explorer.exe process through Task Manager (File \ New Task).

Upon restarting Explorer, the initial appearance may remain unchanged. This is because the toolbar hasn't been activated yet. Activate the File menu by either holding down the Alt key or navigating to Organize \ Layout \ Menu.

Next, enable QT TabBar by going to View \ Toolbars and selecting it. You can simultaneously select both toolbars – one for managing tabs and another for buttons.

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Customizing QTTabBar

The default configuration of the layout and buttons may not be ideal. To personalize your experience, right-click on the button area and choose "Customize."

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This customization menu allows you to select your preferred button options, including the highly sought-after "Up" button.

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To modify the tab settings, right-click within the tab area and select "Options."

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A comprehensive range of options are available, allowing for extensive personalization of the tabbed interface. The possibilities for customization are numerous.

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Utilizing the Tabbed Interface

With the configuration complete, you can now enjoy a fully functional tabbed Explorer. Locking the toolbars prevents accidental movement, and positioning the buttons on the left side allows for greater tab expansion without interface clutter.

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Helpful Usage Tips

Toolbar positions can be adjusted by dragging them to different sides.
Right-clicking on a toolbar allows you to lock its position.
Keyboard shortcuts are available, mirroring many Firefox shortcuts.
The "Clone Tab" button facilitates the creation of new tabs.
Middle-clicking a folder opens it in a new tab.
Middle-clicking a tab closes it.
Files can be copied between tabs simply by dragging and dropping.
The Explorer File menu can be disabled within the options.
Hovering buttons over folders can be turned off in the Misc tab of the Options.
The tabs support skins for visual customization.
Consult the help file for detailed information.

Download QT Tab Bar from quizo.at.infoseek.co.jp. The developer accepts donations via PayPal; consider contributing if you find this software valuable. A development version with plugin support is also available for those seeking advanced features.