How to Access the File Explorer in WSL- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Open File Explorer in WSL: A Comprehensive Guide

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a fantastic feature that allows you to run a GNU/Linux environment directly on Windows. One of the most common tasks when working with WSL is navigating through files and directories. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to open the File Explorer in WSL, making it easier for you to manage your files and directories.

1. Accessing File Explorer in WSL

There are several methods to open the File Explorer in WSL. The most straightforward way is to use the built-in command prompt. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Open the Windows Terminal or Command Prompt.
2. Enter the following command: `wsl.exe`
3. Press Enter, and the WSL environment will open.
4. Now, you can use the `explorer` command to open the File Explorer:

explorer

After executing the command, the File Explorer will open, and you will be able to navigate through your WSL files and directories.

2. Using Keyboard Shortcuts

Another way to open the File Explorer in WSL is by using keyboard shortcuts. If you are using a Windows keyboard, you can press the following keys to open the File Explorer:

• Windows Key + E

This shortcut will open the File Explorer in the default directory, which is usually your home directory in WSL.

3. Accessing File Explorer from the Desktop

If you prefer to access the File Explorer from your Windows desktop, you can create a shortcut. Here’s how to do it:

1. Right-click on your Windows desktop and select “New” > “Shortcut.”
2. In the “Type the location of the item” field, enter the following path: `wsl.exe`
3. Press Next, and then type a name for the shortcut, such as “WSL File Explorer.”
4. Press Finish, and the shortcut will be created on your desktop.
5. Double-click the shortcut to open the File Explorer in WSL.

4. Using the Start Menu

You can also open the File Explorer in WSL by searching for it in the Start menu. Here’s how to do it:

1. Click on the Start button in the lower-left corner of your screen.
2. Start typing “wsl.exe” in the search bar.
3. When you see the “Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)” option, click on it to open the WSL environment.
4. Once the WSL environment is open, use the `explorer` command to open the File Explorer.

Conclusion

Opening the File Explorer in WSL is a straightforward process, and you can choose the method that best suits your needs. Whether you prefer using the command prompt, keyboard shortcuts, or the Start menu, you can easily navigate through your WSL files and directories. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to manage your files and directories more efficiently in the WSL environment.