Microsoft Enhances File Explorer Performance on Windows 11

Microsoft has acknowledged that File Explorer on Windows 11 is currently slower than its counterpart on Windows 10. The company is now taking steps to improve its performance, focusing on both UI enhancements and deeper system optimizations. Notably, Microsoft is internally testing a significant performance boost for file operations, starting with batch file deletions.

Accelerating File Operations

When deleting dozens or even hundreds of smaller files—or a few large files at once—the speed depends on several factors, including the storage hardware (SSD/HDD) and Windows itself. The OS’s file system overhead is a critical factor, as it needs to manage tasks like updating NTFS entries, permissions, indexes, thumbnails, and metadata during file deletions.

While hardware—particularly an SSD’s random I/O speed—plays a significant role, Microsoft emphasizes that software optimizations can also dramatically improve the speed of bulk deletions. By refining how Windows handles file operations, users can experience up to a 30% faster bulk delete performance on Windows 11 following an upcoming update. Some insiders even suggest that the performance improvement could exceed 30%, with this figure being the baseline.

Microsoft shared these details during a Windows Insider meetup in the United States. The faster bulk delete functionality is expected to roll out to testers in the coming weeks. Additionally, Microsoft hinted that other file operations, such as file transfers and copies, are also being targeted for optimization to create a smoother overall experience.

Modernizing File Explorer: Faster Launch, Better UI/UX, and Reduced Clutter

Microsoft has also confirmed plans to modernize File Explorer with a focus on quality, reliability, and improved user experience. The update aims to make File Explorer launch faster, reduce flickering, and address visual issues such as “white flashes” in dark mode.

Key Improvements in File Explorer

• Quicker launch times with preloading technology, making it as fast as the Windows 10 version.
• Reduced flickering and smoother navigation for everyday file tasks.
• Case-sensitive file renaming support and improved path handling with diverse character sets.

Microsoft is also introducing a streamlined right-click menu for File Explorer. This new experience is designed to load faster and feel less cluttered by default. Additionally, power users will soon be able to configure the context menu, allowing them to customize which options appear when they right-click on files.

Another focus area is reducing File Explorer’s memory footprint while modernizing legacy features, such as the Properties tab. These enhancements aim to improve both usability and performance.

Future Enhancements and Ecosystem Impact

Looking ahead, Microsoft plans to roll out as many as 19 features by 2026, including a movable taskbar and a customizable Start menu. These updates demonstrate Microsoft's renewed commitment to improving Windows’ overall experience after years of limited focus on the platform.

It’s encouraging to see Microsoft investing in one of the most widely used operating systems with extensive backward compatibility. A better Windows not only benefits users but also strengthens the overall tech ecosystem, offering a viable alternative to competitors like Apple.