One of the biggest problem areas I find with non-savvy Windows users is how to properly browse their files and execute them with the proper application.
In our office, the primary application everyone uses is a word processor, in our case, Corel WordPerfect. This works great when the user is opening or working with WordPerfect files, however it is not the proper way to look for files on your computer. I can't even count how many times people have had problems opening files because they are using WordPerfect as their file browser. One person was trying to use WordPerfect to open Windows Media files; it's not going to happen.
There are two ways main ways to browse through files and folders in Windows. This can be achieved via Windows Explorer and/or My Computer. My Computer and Windows Explorer are in essence the same window on your screen, just with a different view.
The main differences between these are that Windows Explorer has two panes, while My Computer has one pane. You can toggle between these pains by clicking the Folders icon at the top of the screen.
My Computer encompasses all your drives. My Computer can be expanded or minimized in Windows Explorer.
Let's briefly take a look how to access Windows Explorer and My Computer:
*Keep in mind that in computers, there are usually multiple ways to achieve any one task.
Windows Explorer:
1. The first way is to go to Start, All Programs, then select Windows Explorer. Depending on the way your system is setup, you may not see this option here. No problem, look at the next option.
2. The second way is to right-click on the Start key in the bottom left hand corner of your screen. After doing so, you click Explore. Now you will have Windows Explorer open.
3. The third way, which is also my preferred way, is by using the Windows key. The Windows key is the key on your keyboard that has an emblem of the Windows logo on it.
* To open Windows Explorer, first hold down the Windows key, and then press E on your keyboard. Now Windows Explorer will be open. Keep in mind that some computer manufactures do not supply a Windows key on their keyboards. If this is the case, you can use one of the other options above.
* The Windows Key has many uses. It can be a great shortcut to completing various tasks. I recommend learning more about if you're not already familiar with it.
My Computer:
* There is typically an icon your desktop labled My Computer. If you have this, simply double click it.
* Another way to access My Computer is to click on the Start button on your taskbar (lower left hand corner of your screen). After the menu pops up, you should see an option for My Computer on the right pane. Just single click, and My Computer will now be open.
Now that we know how to open and access My Computer and Windows Explorer, how do we know when to use which? It really comes down to personal preference, but here is what I recommend. (I use the two pane Windows Explorer for all my file navigation needs).
I suggest you use My Computer when need specific access to a particular folder or file. Say you just need to see the contents of a folder, or navigate to that folder to open a file. My Computer is a great option.
With that said, if you need to copy files/folders, move files/folders, delete files/folders, or create new folders, then I highly recommend the use of the double pane Windows Explorer.
Let's look at some of the basics we can achieve using Windows Explorer. Keep in mind there are several ways to do the same thing, but we'll focus on the easiest.
Creating a Folder:
To create a new folder, click on the drive letter you want to create the new folder in. For example, under My Computer you can select the C: drive. Then you will click on file at the top of the screen, go to New, and then select new folder. A new folder will appear, allowing you to give it a new name.
Don't forget you can create folders inside folders. Simply double click within the folder you wish, then follow the same steps above.
Deleting a Folder:
To delete a folder, click on it once, it will now be highlighted. Now go to File at the top of your screen and select delete. It will confirm if you want to delete it. After you press Yes, it will be sent to the recycle bin.
Moving or Copying Files/Folders:
First select the file or folder you want to move by clicking it once. Then go to the top of you screen and select edit. You are given two options, you can either copy to folder, or move to folder. Select which scenario you want, and then it will let you navigate to the area you want to move or copy it to, then select ok. Your files/folders are now transferred.
Even though it says Copy to Folder, you can still use this command to copy an entire folder.
Summary:
My Computer and Windows Explorer are fine tools for navigating and managing your files in Microsoft Windows. Third party companies sell software which claim to be easier, but after taking the time to learn these tools, it will be like a walk in the park.
Greg Ashbaugh is the owner of AshbaughOnline.com, a technology site consisting of tech related news, reviews, and tutorials. When Greg is not working on the site, he works full time as an IT Systems Administrator for one of the largest organizations in the United States.
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