How to Change Default File Explorer
In today’s digital age, the file explorer is an essential tool for navigating and managing our files and folders. However, the default file explorer that comes with your operating system may not always meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for a more user-friendly interface, additional features, or simply a change of pace, changing the default file explorer can be a straightforward process. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to change the default file explorer on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Changing the Default File Explorer on Windows
On Windows, changing the default file explorer is a relatively simple task. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open the File Explorer and click on the “File” menu at the top-left corner.
2. Select “Change folder and search options” from the dropdown menu.
3. In the “Folder Options” window, go to the “File Explorer” tab.
4. Under the “Open files and folders” section, click on the “Choose default programs” link.
5. In the “Default Programs” window, scroll down and select “Windows Explorer” from the list of programs.
6. Click on the “Set this program as default” button and then click “OK” to confirm the change.
Changing the Default File Explorer on macOS
On macOS, changing the default file explorer is a bit more complex, as Apple doesn’t provide a built-in option to do so. However, you can use third-party file explorers like ForkLift or Pathfinder to replace the default Finder. Here’s how to change the default file explorer on macOS:
1. Download and install a third-party file explorer like ForkLift or Pathfinder.
2. Open the third-party file explorer and configure it to your liking.
3. Right-click on any file or folder and select “Get Info” from the context menu.
4. In the “Open with” section, select the third-party file explorer you installed.
5. Click on the “Change All” button to set the third-party file explorer as the default for all files and folders of that type.
Changing the Default File Explorer on Linux
On Linux, changing the default file explorer is a straightforward process, as most distributions allow you to do so through their system settings. Here’s how to change the default file explorer on Linux:
1. Open the system settings or control panel on your Linux distribution.
2. Look for the “Default Applications” or “File Manager” settings.
3. In the file manager settings, select the desired file explorer from the list of available options.
4. Click “Apply” or “OK” to save the changes.
By following these steps, you can easily change the default file explorer on your Windows, macOS, or Linux system. Whether you’re looking for a more feature-rich experience or simply want to try something new, switching to a different file explorer can greatly enhance your productivity and satisfaction with your computer.
