How To Add File Explorer To Taskbar In Windows 11

The File Explorer is an important component of the Windows operating system. Because it is the default file browser in Windows, we often need to open it to access files on the computer.

Windows 11, like its predecessors, offers multiple ways to open the File Explorer. You can use the easy Windows logo + E hotkey, use the search, or click on the File Explorer icon on the taskbar to launch it. However, at times, you might accidentally remove the File Explorer icon from the taskbar.

If you would like to launch File Explorer by clicking on its icon on the taskbar, but it is missing, you might want to add the File Explorer icon back to the taskbar for quick and easy access.

Follow the directions below to add the File Explorer icon to the Windows 11 taskbar.

Method 1 of 2

Add File Explorer to the Windows 11 taskbar

Step 1: Launch the File Explorer using search or simultaneously pressing Windows logo + E keys.

Step 2: Once the File Explorer is launched, its icon will appear on the taskbar. Now, right-click on the File Explorer icon on the taskbar and then click the Pin to taskbar option to add the File Explorer icon to the Windows 11 taskbar.

You may now click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar to launch it.

Method 2 of 2

Add File Explorer to the taskbar via search in Windows 11

Step 1: In the Start or taskbar search field, type File Explorer to see its entry in the search results.

Step 2: Right-click on the File Explorer entry in the search results and then click the Pin to taskbar option to add File Explorer to the Windows 11 taskbar.

Remove the File Explorer icon from the Windows 11 taskbar

Step 1: Right-click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar and then click the Unpin from taskbar option to remove File Explorer from the Windows 11 taskbar.