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Frequently Asked Questions

How to Locate the Log File

If Files launches successfully, the easiest way to access the log file is directly from Settings → About → Open log location. If you’re unable to open the UI, you can locate the log manually using File Explorer. Your username and the paths of your files are masked in the log, so it can be shared when reporting an issue.

The path varies depending on which version of Files is installed:

Files Stable (Microsoft Store)

%LocalAppData%\Packages\49306atecsolution.FilesUWP_et10x9a9vyk8t\LocalState

Files Stable (Sideload)

%LocalAppData%\Packages\Files_1y0xx7n9077q4\LocalState

Files Preview (Microsoft Store)

%LocalAppData%\Packages\49306atecsolution.FilesPreview_et10x9a9vyk8t\LocalState

Files Preview (Sideload)

%LocalAppData%\Packages\FilesPreview_1y0xx7n9077q4\LocalState

How to Improve Performance

The default settings are designed to deliver the best performance across different environments. We’ve identified several areas with potential for further optimization and are actively working on improvements behind the scenes.

How to Reduce Memory Usage

Resource consumption naturally increases when opening new tabs or navigating to different locations. Memory usage should drop again after letting Files sit idle for a little while.

How to Open Files from Command Line

To open Files from command line, run the following command: files-<branch>.exe, replacing <branch> with the version of Files you have installed:

  • stable: Production build
  • preview: Beta/preview build
  • dev: Development build

You can also use the path parameter to open a folder inside of Files, for example: files-stable.exe "C:\Users\YourName\Documents".

Is it possible to use other context menus (Nilesoft, File Explorer etc)

While it’s technically possible for us to support the File Explorer context menu, it wouldn’t provide the best experience. For example, menu options like changing the layout, copying, pasting, creating new files, viewing properties, and sorting are all linked to File Explorer and wouldn’t work if invoked from Files. Additionally, there are many unique features in the Files context menu that you won’t find in File Explorer. Support for third party context menus can be added provided the third party makes the necessary changes to integrate with Files. If there’s a specific feature you’re missing, please feel free to open a feature request, and we’ll be happy to take a look!