Files & folders

Find, organize, copy, and recover files on your computer. Follow beginner guides for folders, ZIP archives, downloads, PDFs, and storage space. 16 topics

• 1mHow do I choose which program opens my photos or PDFs?1m · Set your permanent default app for any specific file type using Open with
• 2mHow do I merge multiple PDF files into one document?2m · Merge multiple separate PDF files into a single organized document
• 1mHow do I copy files to a USB flash drive?1m · Transfer documents and folders safely to an external USB flash drive
• 30sHow do I copy text from an image or screenshot without retyping?30s · Copy words and numbers directly from images, photos, and screenshots using built-in OCR
• 1mHow do I unzip or extract files from a zip folder?1m · Extract all compressed files from a zip archive into a normal folder
• 1mWhere did the file I just downloaded go?1m · Find your downloaded files
• 2mHow do I free up space on my computer?2m · Free up hard drive space safely
• 1mHow do I combine multiple files into one zip file?1m · Create a compressed ZIP archive
• 30sHow do I pause OneDrive syncing when my storage or internet is full?30s · Temporarily stop OneDrive from uploading files, using internet bandwidth, or filling up cloud storage
• 30sHow do I pin my most important folders for instant access?30s · Pin frequently used folders to the File Explorer sidebar
• 1mHow do I get back a file I accidentally deleted?1m · Recover a deleted file from the Recycle Bin
• 30sHow do I rename multiple files at once without typing each name?30s · Batch rename and number multiple files simultaneously
• 1mHow do I save a document or web page as a PDF?1m · Save any web page, receipt, or document as a portable PDF file without a printer
• 1mHow do I search for files by words inside them instead of just their name?1m · Find documents by text inside their contents using File Explorer search filters
• 1mHow do I show file extensions like .pdf or .docx at the end of file names?1m · Reveal hidden file extensions to identify file types and stay safe
• 2mHow do I sign or fill out a PDF without printing it?2m · Sign and fill out PDF forms without printing