How to Fix File Explorer Tabs Not Showing in Windows 11

If you’re using Windows 11 with the 22H2 build, you should have access to the useful new feature—File Explorer Tabs. This feature allows for better multitasking by letting you open multiple tabs in File Explorer. However, many users have reported that even after updating to Windows 11 Build 22621.675 or later, the tabs are still missing. If you’re facing this issue, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you resolve it.

1. Verify You’re Using the Correct Windows 11 Build
Not all Windows 11 builds have the File Explorer tabs feature. To use this feature, you need to ensure that your PC is running Windows 11 Build 22621.675 or later.

Here’s how to check:
1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type winver and press Enter.
3. A window will open showing the version of Windows you are using. Ensure it is 22621.675 or above.

If you updated your system on or after October 18 (KB5019509), the File Explorer tabs should be available.

2. Update Your Windows 11
If your version is older than 22621.675, you’ll need to update your Windows 11 installation:
1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
2. Navigate to Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any pending updates.
4. If your PC supports the 22H2 update, it will appear, and you can install it.

Read More: How to Repair and Reset the Settings App in Windows 11

3. Restart Windows Explorer
Sometimes, the tabs don’t show up because of background processes. A simple restart of Windows Explorer might resolve the issue:
1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. In the Processes tab, find Windows Explorer.
3. Right-click on it and select Restart.

Once restarted, open File Explorer again and check for the tabs.

4. Enable Tabs in File Explorer Using ViveTool
If restarting doesn’t help, you can forcefully enable tabs using ViveTool:
1. Download ViveTool from GitHub and extract it.
2. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
3. Navigate to the ViveTool folder and run the necessary commands to enable tabs.

For a detailed guide, refer to our instructions on how to enable File Explorer tabs using ViveTool.

5. Clear File Explorer Cache
A corrupted File Explorer cache might prevent the tabs from showing. Clearing the cache can fix this:
1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on the three dots in the top-right corner and select Options.
3. In the General tab, find the Privacy section and click Clear.

6. Run the SFC Command
The System File Checker (SFC) tool can help if corrupted system files are causing the issue:
1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type SFC /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete, and restart your PC.

7. Reinstall the Windows 11 22H2 Update
If none of the above methods work, you can reinstall the 22H2 update:
1. Open Settings > Windows Update > Update History.
2. Click on Uninstall updates.
3. Find the 22H2 build and uninstall it.
4. Restart your PC and check for updates again to reinstall the 22H2 update.

By following these methods, you should be able to fix the issue of missing File Explorer tabs on Windows 11.  Learn More


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About ugamasontech

Welcome to UgamasonTech! I’m Ugama Stanley Chinedu, the passionate blogger behind this tech haven. With a deep-rooted love for technology and innovation, I explore the latest trends, reviews, and insights to keep you informed and ahead of the curve. Join me on a journey through the ever-evolving tech landscape as we uncover the future together.

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