Using the Explorer Window in Windows 7

The Explorer windows are powerful easy-touse tools for working with files consistently across Windows 7. Explorers give you more information and control while simplifying how you work with your files. The experience is easy and consistent, whether you're browsing documents or photos or even using the Control Panel. Key elements of the Explorer windows in Windows 7 are designed to help you get to the information you need, when you need it. Each Explorer window includes the following elements:

• Back and Forward buttons. Use to navigate between previously viewed folders.

• Address bar. Use to navigate directly to a different location, including local and network disks, folders, and web locations.

• Search box. Use to perform instant searches, which show only those files that match what you typed in the Search box for the current folder and any of its subfolders.

• Toolbar/Command bar. Use to perform file related commands. Toolbar/Command bars display only the task buttons that are appropriate for the files being displayed. There are two consistent buttons on every Toolbar/Command bar: Organize and Views.

• Navigation pane. (New!) Use to display common folders, such as Favorites, Libraries, HomeGroup (a shared network), Computer, and Network, using a Folder list tree structure.

• Libraries. (New!) Use to access common folders, such as Documents, Music, Pictures, and Videos. A library is a collection of files and folders linked from different locations, including your computer, HomeGroup, or network, into a central place. A file or folder can be stored in one location, yet linked to a library for easy access. For example, your My Documents folder located in your personal folder (the one with your account name) is linked to the Documents library.

Source of Information : Microsoft Windows 7 on Demand (2009)