This browser does not support basic Web standards, preventing the display of our site's intended design. May we suggest that you upgrade your browser?

Windows 2000

Explorer Environment

Windows Explorer is used to manage files, folders, and drives. It can be used to create folders for storing information, rearrange files or folders, locate files or folders, and  delete files or folders that are no longer needed. This document describes many of the components of the Explorer dialog box and provides you with descriptions of the different functions found on the toolbar. For information on using Explorer to manage files, refer to Working with Files. 

return to topOpening Windows Explorer

There are two options for accessing Windows Explorer on campus computers -- the right click option and the Start menu option.

NOTE: The Start menu option may not always work, due to periodic Start menu reorganization.

Right Click Option

  1. On the desktop, right click MY COMPUTER
    OR
    On the Task bar, right click the START button
    The Quick menu appears.

  2. From the Quick menu, select Explore
    Windows Explorer opens.

Start Menu Option

  1. From the Start menu, select Programs » Accessories » Windows Explorer
    Windows Explorer opens.
    NOTE: The Start menu option may not always work, due to periodic Start menu reorganization.

return to topExplorer Window

This section describes the various parts of the window and their respective purposes.

Explorer Dialog Window

Part of Window Purpose
Title Identifies the current window and drive/folder being viewed
Toolbar Shortcuts for accomplishing tasks with Explorer (icons described later in this handout)
Folders/Drives Listing Displays the drives and directories available
Listing of Contents Displays the contents of the selected drive/folder
Status Bar Displays information about the selected item

 

return to top The Explorer Toolbar

The Explorer toolbar provides shortcuts for accomplishing tasks. With the toolbar, you can move from folder to folder, move, copy, or delete folders, and select the view in which you would like to read the Explorer window. The display of the toolbar is an option that you can turn on and off. 

To Display the Toolbar

  1. From the View menu, select Toolbar
     The Toolbar will appear.
    Explorer toolbar

About the Toolbar Icons

Icon Purpose
Address Selector
Address Selector 		Displays the current folder or drive. Can be used to select folders in the hierarchy or another drive.
Backward/Forward
Back and Forward buttons 		These arrows allow you to move backwards or forwards through your search, much like the BACK button on web browsers. 
NOTE: Before you can use the FORWARD button you must use the BACK button.
Explorer Views
Search/Folder/History views 		The SEARCH button allows you to search for files and folders. The FOLDERS button lets you see the Explorer dialog box in folder view. The HISTORY button lets you view files and folders that you have previously opened.
Up One Level
Up One Level 		Move up one level in the directory/drive hierarchy
Move To
Move To		 Move a file or folder into another folder
Copy
Copy		 Copy the selected file or folder and place it on the Windows clipboard
Delete
Delete 		Delete the selected file(s) or folder(s)
Undo
Undo 		Undo the most recent action
Excellence. Our Measure. Our Motto. Our Goal.