How to Minimize File Explorer Window: A Quick Guide

By Michael | Last Updated May 21, 2025

Whether you're managing files, opening folders, or simply multitasking, knowing how to minimize the File Explorer window can save you time and keep your desktop organized. In this quick guide, we’ll cover multiple ways to minimize File Explorer window on Windows 10/11.

• Method 1: Use the Minimize Button
• Method 2: Use a Keyboard Shortcut
• Method 3: Right-click from the Top Blank Area
• Cannot Minimize File Explorer Window, How to Fix
• Bonus Tips: How to Minimize Ribbon in File Explorer on Windows 10/11

Method 1: Use the Minimize Button

You can go to the top-right corner of the File Explorer window, then click the underscore icon which is located next to the maximize and close buttons. After that your File Explorer window is minimized to the taskbar in no time.

Method 2: Use a Keyboard Shortcut

If you prefer using the keyboard, here are two shortcuts:

Alt + Space, then press N. This will bring up the window control menu, and N means to minimize the window.

Windows +D. This shortcut enables you to minimize all open windows. If you want to expand them, just go to press it again.

Method 3: Right-click from the Top Blank Area

You can go to the top blank area and then press a simple right-click. After that, you can choose Minimize option from the context menu.

Cannot Minimize File Explorer Window, How to Fix

If this error happens, you can try the below solutions:

Solution 1: Exit Full-Screen Mode

If the full-screen mode is activated, you cannot find the window controls. You can press the F11 to disable the full-screen mode. After that, click the top-right corner of File Explorer to minimize the window.

Solution 2: Restart File Explorer

If File Explorer makes no response, you can press Ctrl + Shift+ Esc to open Task Manager. Then tab the Processes tab and find Windows Explorer. After that, Right-click it and choose Restart from the drop-down menu.

Solution 3: Clear File Explorer History

The corrupted history files can sometimes disable certain UI elements, including the minimize button. Thus, you can try to clear File Explorer History to fix the issue.

Bonus Tips: How to Minimize Ribbon in File Explorer on Windows 10/11

If you want to minimize the Ribbon in File Explorer, how to do? You can press the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + F1 to realize the goal. Or tap small up arrow to minimize the ribbon.

You can also click the Customize Quick Access Toolbar icon on the top left, then select Minimize the Ribbon from the list.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to minimize File Explorer with ease and how to fix File Explorer cannot minimize issue. You’re ready to take control of your desktop experience.

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