Microsoft’s Windows 11 File Explorer still clunky? My favorite alternative just got a slick upgrade — with real‑time visual feedback on file operations

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As a researcher following the adoption of Windows 11, it’s clear Microsoft has faced challenges getting users to switch, even after over four years since its launch. My analysis points to two main reasons: the fairly strict hardware requirements and some design choices that haven’t resonated with everyone.

Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 next week, on October 14, 2025. Many users are switching to Windows 11, while others are opting for Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates to continue receiving support for Windows 10 for one more year.

Microsoft is offering its Extended Security Update (ESU) program at no cost to users in the European Economic Area. Unlike elsewhere, these users don’t need to connect their PCs to a Microsoft account and sync settings to receive these important security updates.

Files, a popular alternative to Windows 11’s File Explorer, recently received an update to version 4.0.12 in its preview release. This update includes a new “Discover” section and makes the “Cancel” button in the Status Center easier to find and use.

The updated Discovering Phase now keeps users informed about the progress of file operations through the Status Center. Earlier versions didn’t show any progress updates, which often left users wondering if something was wrong or if the process had stopped.

To make things easier to understand, we’ve moved the Cancel file operation button in the Status Center into a menu. This helps create a more user-friendly experience.

Here’s everything you need to know about the update, including new features and fixes:

Files v4.0.12: What’s new

Added New ‘Discovering’ Phase to Status Center

The Status Center now shows you when it’s searching for files during an operation. Before, there was no indication it was working, which could make it seem like nothing was happening.

Improved ‘Cancel’ Button Placement in Status Center

We’ve moved the ‘Cancel’ button for file operations from the Status Center into a dropdown menu. This makes the interface easier to understand and use.

Files v4.0.12: Fixes

Fixes

  • Fixed an issue where release notes were mirrored in RTL.
  • Fixed an issue where the home button didn’t work when viewing tags.
  • Fixed an issue with opening items from search results in Columns View.
  • Fixed an issue with opening certain network locations.
  • Fixed an issue where pinned folder icons didn’t load until restarting Files.

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2025-10-06 14:39