Microsoft is rolling out a set of long-awaited enhancements to File Explorer as part of the latest Windows 11 Dev preview builds, introducing improvements aimed at speeding up performance on a wide range of devices. The update reflects Microsoft’s continued push to modernize Windows system tools while optimizing them for newer hardware trends, including handhelds and tablets.
One of the key additions is a new File Explorer preloading feature. This capability keeps essential components of File Explorer ready in the background so that the app can launch more quickly when needed. While File Explorer typically opens instantly on modern desktop PCs, users on lower-powered devices often experience slower load times. Microsoft says the new preload system is designed specifically to help these users, reducing initial startup lag and ensuring a smoother experience.
The company notes that the feature will not be mandatory. Users who prefer to keep background processes minimal will have the option to disable File Explorer preloading entirely. This ensures that power users and system administrators retain full control over resource consumption, especially on systems where background activity is tightly managed.
The change follows a similar optimization Microsoft quietly rolled out to its Office suite earlier this year. In that update, Word introduced a silent startup task that reduced launch times by preparing some processes in advance. With File Explorer now receiving parallel treatment, Microsoft appears committed to applying this performance strategy across multiple core applications.
These improvements come at a time when Windows 11 is increasingly being adopted on compact devices such as portable gaming PCs and touchscreen tablets. These form factors often have lower thermal and power limits compared to full desktops, making optimized system tools more important than ever. Faster access to File Explorer can help streamline workflows for users who rely on portable Windows machines for content creation, productivity, or everyday tasks.
As testing continues through the Dev Channel, Microsoft is expected to refine the preload behavior, assess real-world performance feedback, and determine the most effective configuration before a broader rollout. Although preload features may seem subtle, they represent a deeper shift in how Windows prioritizes responsiveness and user experience.
File Explorer remains one of the most frequently used tools in the Windows ecosystem, and these changes signal that Microsoft is taking steps to modernize its foundation while maintaining compatibility with a diverse range of hardware.
