What Is Windows Explorer?

Windows Explorer, also known as Windows Shell, is an application used to manage files within the Windows operating system. It contains a graphical interface that appears on the monitor and allows the user to control the computer.

In the Beginning

It was first introduced into the Windows 95 operating system as a replacement for the Windows 3 file manager. It was patterned after the Macintosh Finder file manager.

Access

Windows Explorer can be accessed in three ways: from the "Start Menu" in the bottom left corner of the desktop, by double-clicking the "My Computer" icon and by pressing the "Windows Key" plus the "E" key on the keyboard.

Windows Shell

Windows Explorer allows for the display of the "Control Panel," "Start Menu," "Desktop Icons" and "Taskbar." These functions are referred to as the Windows Shell.

Updated

Having back and forth navigation arrows, a favorites menu and allowing the user to view past directories that were accessed, Windows Explorer patterned its updated interface to match that of the web browser, Internet Explorer.

Location

An address bar within Windows Explorer allows the uses to input file paths and be taken directly to that location. It could also be used an URL bar for web pages.