When you first open your smartphone on Android, among the pre-installed applications you will definitely find “Explorer”, “Files” or Files by Google. Many users do not even suspect that this is a powerful tool for working with files - not just a folder for photos, but a full-fledged manager with hidden capabilities. Without it, it is impossible to manually transfer documents, clear the application cache, or find long-forgotten downloads.

In this article, we will look at what it is, how it differs from the standard “File Manager” on Explorer for Android, how does it differ from the standard “File Manager” on iPhone, and why even experienced users often miss its key functions. You will learn how to use it to free up memory, hide personal files, connect to cloud storage, and even recover accidentally deleted data - all without installing additional apps.

And we will also compare the built-in explorer with popular alternatives like Solid Explorer or FX File Explorerso that you can choose the best option for your tasks. If you think that a file manager is only needed for viewing photos, you will be surprised how useful it is in everyday use of a smartphone.

What is Explorer on Android and why do you need it?

Explorer (or file manager) on Android is a system application that allows you to interact with the file system of the device. Essentially, this is an analogue of “Windows Explorer” or Finder na MacOS, but adapted for mobile devices. With it you can:

  • 📁 View and sort files by type (images, videos, documents, audio).
  • 🔍 Search for specific files by name or creation date.
  • 🗑️ Delete, copy, move or rename files.
  • 🔗 Connect to cloud services (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive).
  • 📱 Manage internal memory and SD card (if installed).

B Unlike iOS, where access to the file system is highly limited, Android gives the user almost complete control. For example, you can manually move music to a folder /Musicso that it appears in the player, or clear the application cache without completely deleting it. This is especially useful if you often work with documents, download files from the Internet, or transfer data. between devices.

It is important to understand that Explorer is not a browser —it does not open web pages, but works only with local and network files. However, some advanced managers (for example, MiXplorer) can connect to FTPservers or even mount network drives. turning your smartphone into a mini-PC.

📊 Which file manager do you use on Android?
Standard (Files by Google)
Solid Explorer
FX File Explorer
Other
I don’t use

Where to find File Explorer on Android and how to open it

On most smartphones, File Explorer is installed by default, but its name may differ depending on the manufacturer and version. Android. Here's where to look for it:

  • 📱 Stock Android (Pixel, Motorola, Nokia): The application is called Files by Google (blue folder icon with a white checkmark).
  • 🤖 Samsung: My file or Samsung My Files (orange folder).
  • 📱 Xiaomi/Redmi/Poco: Files or File Manager (yellow folder icon).
  • 🔗 Huawei/Honor: Files or File Manager (blue icon with white sheet).

If you do not find the application on the main screen, try:

  1. Open All applications (swipe up from the bottom of the screen).
  2. Enter into search for “files” or “explorer”.
  3. If it is not there, install it from Google Play (for example, Files by Google from the developer Google LLC).

On some firmware (for example, on ColorOS from Oppo or Realme) the explorer can be hidden in the settings. To find it, go to Settings → Additional settings → File manager. Also, some manufacturers integrate it into the section Storage.

💡

If your smartphone does not have a built-in explorer, do not rush to install the first one you find from the Play Market. First, check if it is hidden in the “Tools” or “Google” folder on the main screen.

Basic functions of the standard explorer on Android

Even a basic file manager from Google or the smartphone manufacturer offers more options than it seems. Let's look at the key functions that are useful in everyday use:

Function Description How to use
Storage & Performance Deletes unnecessary files (cache, duplicates, old downloads). Open section “Cleaning” or “Storage” → select files to delete.
Search for files Quick search by name, type or date. Tap on the magnifying glass icon in the top menu → enter a query.
Archiving Creating and unpacking ZIP/RARarchives. Select files → “Compress” or “Extract.”
Cloud storage Connect to Google Drive, Dropbox etc. Click “Cloud” or “Add storage” in the side menu.
Hidden files View system folders (for example, .nomedia). Enable the "Show hidden files" option in the settings.

One of the most useful but underrated features is storage analysisFor example, Files by Google there is a "Cleaning" section that shows which applications are taking up the most space and suggests removing unnecessary data (e.g. cache Telegram or downloaded movies from YouTube). This helps to free up several gigabytes of memory in just two taps.

Another hidden feature is transfer files without Internetin some explorers (for example, Mi File Manager) has a function Nearby Share or Quick Sharethat allows you to send files to other devices via Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth without using mobile traffic.

💡

Standard Explorer on Android can replace several specialized applications: a memory cleaner, an archiver, and even a cloud client. Most users install third-party utilities, not realizing that the necessary functions are already built-in.

How to use File Explorer: step-by-step guide for beginners

If you have never worked with a file manager on a smartphone, here are the basic actions that will be useful from the first day:

Copying files|Moving files|Deleting unnecessary data|Search by name|Creating a new folder-->

1. Copying and moving files

To copy a file (for example, a photo from a folder DCIM to Downloads):

  1. Press your finger on the file → select “Copy” (or “Select” if you need several files).
  2. Go to the target folder → click “Paste.”
  3. To move (rather than copy), select “Cut” instead of “Copy.”

2. Deleting unnecessary files

To free up space:

  1. Open the “Storage” section or “Categories” → select “Downloads”, “Cache” or “Duplicates”.
  2. Select unnecessary files (with checkmarks) → click “Delete”.
  3. To completely clear the application cache, go to Settings → Storage → Data applications.

3. Search for files

If you don’t remember where you saved the document:

  1. Tap on the search icon (magnifying glass) in the upper right corner.
  2. Enter part of the file name or its type (for example, .pdf).
  3. Explorer will show all matches, even in archives or cloud folders.

4. Creating a new folder

To organize your files:

  1. Open the folder where you want to create a new one (for example, Downloads).
  2. Click by three dots (menu) → “Create folder.”
  3. Enter a name (for example, “Working documents”) → “OK.”

If you often work with files, we recommend enabling showing hidden folders in Explorer settings. This will allow you to see system directories (for example .thumbnails for thumbnail images) and configuration files (for example .nomediathat hides a folder from the media scanner).

What is a .nomedia file?

File .nomedia is an empty text file that tells Android to ignore the contents of the folder when scanning media. For example, if you place it in your music folder, the tracks will not appear in the player, but will remain on the device. This is convenient for hiding personal files without encryption.

Hidden capabilities of Explorer: what it can do, but does not advertise

Many functions of file managers are hidden deep in the settings or are accessible only through non-obvious gestures. Here's what you can do, but few people know:

  • 🔒 Protecting folders with a password: Some explorers (for example, Samsung My Files) allow you to set a PIN code for individual folders. To do this, select the folder → “Protect” → set a password.
  • 📤 Sending files to PC: There is a "Send to device" function, which generates Files by Google there is a “Send to device” function that generates QR code to quickly transfer files to your computer via browser.
  • 🗃️ Compression without an archiver: You can create an ZIParchive directly in Explorer by selecting the files and selecting “Compress”. This is convenient for sending several documents by mail.
  • 🔄 Recovering deleted files: Some versions (for example, on Xiaomi) have a “Trash”, where files are stored for 30 days after deletion. To restore, open the “Trash” → select files → “Recover.”
  • 📡 FTP server on a smartphone: Advanced managers like Solid Explorer can run FTP serverto manage smartphone files via PC local network.

Google Explorer (Files by Google) has a hidden “Secure Folder” function that encrypts files and requires a PIN code or fingerprint for access. It is hidden in the “Collections” → “Secure Folder” section. This is one of the most reliable ways to hide confidential data without third-party applications.

Another little-known feature is viewing file properties. If you hold your finger on any file and select “Details” (or “Properties”), you will see detailed information: size, creation date, resolution (for images), bitrate (for video) and even photo data (camera model, geolocation, etc.). This is useful if you want to sort files by date or find the heaviest documents. EXIF-photo data (camera model, geolocation, etc.). This is useful if you want to sort files by date or find the heaviest documents.

💡

To quickly find the largest files, sort the contents of the folder by size. In most explorers, to do this, you need to click on the three dots in the menu → “Sort” → “By size (descending).”

Third-party explorers: when to install and which ones to choose

The built-in file manager is suitable for basic tasks, but if you need advanced functions, you should consider third-party applications. They offer:

  • 🔧 Dual-panel mode (as in Total Commander on a PC) for convenient file transfer.
  • 🌐 Support for network protocols (FTP, SFTP, WebDAV, SMB).
  • 🔐 File encryption (for example, Cryptomator in Solid Explorer).
  • 🎨 Dark theme and customization (changing icons, color schemes).
  • 🤖 Root access for working with system files (only for advanced users).

Here is a comparison of popular alternatives:

Application Advantages Disadvantages Price
Solid Explorer Two-panel interface, cloud support, FTP, encryption. Paid version (149 ₽ for unlocking all functions). Free + purchases
FX File Explorer Root access, built-in text editor, support SFTP. Advertising in the free version. Free + purchases
MiXplorer Multifunctional, support SMB, built-in PDF viewer. Difficult for beginners. Free
Total Commander Verified time, plugin support, FTP client. Outdated design. Free

Is it worth installing a third-party explorer? It depends on your tasks:

  • 📱 For the average user: The built-in manager is sufficient.
  • 💼 For working with documents: Suitable Solid Explorer or FX.
  • 🔧 For administration: MiXplorer or Total Commander with root access.

If you decide to install a third-party application, be sure to check the permissions it requests. Reliable explorers (for example, from Google or Solid) ask for access only to the storage, while suspicious ones may require access to contacts or SMS.

💡

Third-party explorers are only justified if you need specific functions (for example, working with FTP or root access). For most tasks, the built-in manager is enough, especially on modern versions of Android.

Security: how not to lose data when working with Explorer

The file manager provides ample opportunities, but also higher risks. An error when deleting or moving files can result in data loss. Here's how to avoid problems:

⚠️ Attention: Never delete folders with names Android, data or system —this can damage your smartphone. Also, do not change files with the extension .apk (installed applications) or .odex (system libraries).

1. Backup before changes

Before bulk deleting or moving files:

  • Copy important data to SD card or to the cloud.
  • Use the "Export" function in Explorer to create a backup.
  • For contacts and messages, use Google Account (automatic synchronization).

2. Enable the Recycle Bin

If your Explorer supports the Recycle Bin (for example, on Xiaomi or Samsung), be sure to activate it in the settings. This way, deleted files will be stored for 30 days and can be restored.

3. Check file extensions

Do not open files with suspicious extensions (for example, .apk from unknown sources or .exe -they are not intended for Android). Viruses are often disguised as harmless documents.

4. Encrypt confidential data

If important documents (passport scans, bank statements) are stored on your smartphone, use:

  • Built-in “Secure Folder” in Files by Google.
  • Third-party solutions like Cryptomator or Solid Explorer with encryption.
  • Archive with password (format ZIP with encryption AES-256).
⚠️ Attention: If you connect your smartphone to public Wi-Fi and use an FTP server in Explorer, disable it immediately after transferring files. Otherwise, your data may become available to other users network.

It is also worth regularly checking the explorer permissions in the Android settings. To do this, go to Settings → Applications → Files → Permissions and make sure that the application does not have access to SMS, calls or geolocation for no reason.

Frequent problems with Explorer and how to solve them

Even the standard file manager sometimes works incorrectly. Here are the most common problems and their solutions:

1. Explorer does not open or crashes

Possible reasons and solutions:

  • 📱 Application cache: Go to Settings → Applications → Files → Storage → Clear cache.
  • 🔄 Update: Update the application via Google Play.
  • 🔧 Reset settings: In the same application settings, select “Reset settings”.
  • 📴 Reinstallation: Delete updates ("Delete updates" button) or reinstall the explorer.

2. Files on the SD card are not displayed

If SD card is connected, but the files are not visible:

  • 🔌 Reconnect the card (remove and insert back).
  • 📁 Check if the files are hidden (turn on display of hidden folders in the settings).
  • 🖥️ Connect your smartphone to the PC and check the card through the computer.
  • 🔄 Format the card (after copying the data!) if it is damaged.

3. You cannot delete or rename a file

If the file is not deleted:

  • 🔒 Check if it is write-protected (for example, files on SD card with a switch Lock).
  • 📂 Try to remove it via PC by connecting your smartphone via USB.
  • 🛠️ Use a third-party explorer with root access (only for experienced users!).

4. Explorer

If the application is slow:

  • 🧹 Clear the cache (see point 1).
  • 📊 Check the free space on your device (less than 10% of free space slows things down).
  • 🔄 Turn off automatic media scanning in the Explorer settings.
⚠️ Attention: If after connecting SD cards Explorer offers to format it, do not agree right away. First, check the card on another device - the problem may be with the smartphone and not with the media. Formatting will delete all data!

If none of the methods help, try using an alternative explorer (for example, Files by Google) to check whether the problem is with the application or with the device's file system.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about File Explorer on Android

🔍 Is it possible to recover files deleted through File Explorer?

If your Explorer has a "Recycle Bin" (for example, on Xiaomi or Samsung), files are stored there for 30 days. To restore:

  1. Open the "Recycle Bin" section in Explorer.
  2. Select the required files.
  3. Click "Recover."

If there is no Recycle Bin, try data recovery apps (for example, DiskDigger or Recuva via PC). Please note that the chances depend on how much data was written to the device after deletion.

📁 How to hide a folder in Explorer?

There are several ways:

  1. Renaming: Add a period to the beginning of the folder name (for example, .secret). It will become hidden, but will be visible when you turn on the display of hidden files.
  2. File .nomedia: Create an empty file in the folder with the name .nomedia —it will disappear from the gallery, but will remain in Explorer.
  3. Password protection: In explorers like Samsung My Files or Solid Explorer you can set a PIN to the folder.
📱 Why does Explorer not see the internal memory?

Possible reasons:

  • 📵 Lack of permissions: Go to Settings → Applications → Files → Permissions and enable storage access.
  • 🔧 System failure: Restart your smartphone.
  • 🛠️ Damaged file system: Connect the device to the PC and check the disk for errors (via chkdsk in Windows).

If the problem persists, try resetting Explorer settings or installing an alternative manager.

🔄 How to transfer files from Android to PC via Explorer?

Transfer methods:

  1. USB cable: Connect your smartphone to the PC, select the “File Transfer” mode (MTP) and copy the data through Windows Explorer.
  2. Wi-Fi (FTP): B Solid Explorer or FX File Explorer start an FTP server and connect to it from a PC via a browser or FileZilla.
  3. Cloud: Upload files to Google Drive or Dropbox via Explorer, then download them to your PC.
  4. QR code: In Files by Google select files → “Send to device” → scan the code from your PC.
🔒 Is it possible to delete through File Explorer virus?

Explorer will help you find and delete suspicious files, but does not guarantee complete cleaning. Actions:

  1. Open Explorer and check the folders Download, DCIM for unknown files (especially with the extension .apk or .jsx).
  2. Delete suspicious files (do not touch system folders!).
  3. Install antivirus (for example, Malwarebytes) for deep scanning.
  4. If a virus blocks access, boot your smartphone into Safe Mode (hold the power off button → "Safe Mode") and check again.

If the virus has damaged system files, you may need to reset to factory settings.