Windows XP
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.
NOTE: Some of these instructions refer to MY COMPUTER
on the Desktop. Instead of the text MY COMPUTER, you may see your username followed by the computer name.
Opening 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
-
On the Desktop, right click MY COMPUTER » select Explore
OR
On the Taskbar, right click START » select Explore
Windows Explorer opens.
Start Menu Option
-
From the Start menu, select All Programs » Accessories » Windows Explorer
Windows Explorer opens.
NOTE: The Start menu option may not always work, due to periodic Start menu reorganization.
Explorer Window
This section describes the various parts of the window and their respective purposes.
| Part of Window | Purpose |
| Title Bar | Identifies the current window and drive/folder being viewed |
| Standard Buttons Toolbar | Shortcuts for accomplishing tasks with Explorer (icons described later in this handout) |
| Address Toolbar | Displays the location of the selected folder |
| Folders/Drives List | Displays the drives and directories available |
| List of Contents | Displays the contents of the selected drive/folder |
| Status Bar | Displays information about the selected item |
The Standard Buttons Toolbar
The Standard Buttons toolbar provides shortcuts for accomplishing tasks. With the toolbar, you can move from folder to folder 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:
-
From the View menu, select Toolbars » Standard Buttons
The Toolbar will appear.
About the Toolbar Icons
| Icon | Purpose |
|---|---|
Back/Forward |
These arrows allow you to move backwards or forwards through your folders, much like the BACK button on web browsers. NOTE: Before you can use the FORWARD button, you must use the BACK button. |
Up |
Move up one level in the directory/drive hierarchy. |
Search |
SEARCH allows you to search for files and folders in a specified location. |
| Folders  |
When FOLDERS is selected, the a list of folders is displayed on the left side of the window. |
Views |
Allows you to select how the icons are displayed. |
