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. The path varies depending on which version of Files is installed:
Files Stable (Microsoft Store)
%LocalAppData%\Packages\49306atecsolution.FilesUWP_et10x9a9vyk8t\LocalStateFiles Stable (Sideload)
%LocalAppData%\Packages\Files_1y0xx7n9077q4\LocalStateFiles Preview (Microsoft Store)
%LocalAppData%\Packages\49306atecsolution.FilesPreview_et10x9a9vyk8t\LocalStateFiles Preview (Sideload)
%LocalAppData%\Packages\FilesPreview_1y0xx7n9077q4\LocalStateHow 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. However, we’re aware of several memory leaks that can cause usage to accumulate over extended sessions.
To mitigate this, consider disabling the option to keep Files in the background from Settings → Advanced → Leave app running in the background when the window is closed. Note that turning this off may result in slower launch times for Files. We’re investigating these leaks and looking for a long-term solution.
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 buildpreview: Beta/preview builddev: 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!