In the world of the Android operating system, file managers play the role of a fundamental tool, without which full device management is impossible. Standard system tools are often limited in functionality, not providing access to system folders or convenient tools for working with archives. This is where SX File Explorer (SX File Explorer) comes in - a powerful application that has gained popularity among advanced users due to its lightweight and wide range of capabilities.
Many users face difficulties when trying to organize the chaotic storage of their smartphone or tablet. Cluttered files slow down your device and make it difficult to find the documents or media you need. Using specialized software, such as SX File Explorer, allows you to restore order in a matter of minutes. In this article, we will look in detail at how to install, configure and effectively use all the functions of this tool.
The main goal of this guide is to turn a seemingly complex utility into an understandable and convenient tool for daily use. We will look at not only basic copy and move operations, but also advanced functions such as working with root access, connecting to cloud storage and managing network drives. Are you ready to optimize your work with your data?
Installation and initial configuration of the interface
The installation process of the application does not require complex manipulations and takes only a few minutes. The user just needs to go to the official store Google Play, enter the name of the app in the search and click the install button. However, after the first launch, it is important to correctly configure the appearance and basic parameters for comfortable work. The application interface is minimalist, but hides many settings available through the side menu.
When you first launch SX Explorer automatically scans the device's internal memory, displaying the main directories. For beginners, it is recommended to immediately switch the file display type. This can be done by clicking on the icon with three dots in the upper right corner and selecting View. Display options are available here: a list, tiles or a detailed list with dates and sizes.
Particular attention should be paid to setting the color theme and font size, especially if you plan to often work with text documents or small system files. The adaptive interface allows you to adjust the application to any vision preferences. You can also enable the display of hidden files in the settings, which is critical for accessing the configuration files of some applications.
For quick access to frequently used folders, add them to “Favorites” by holding your finger on the directory name and selecting the corresponding star icon.
- 📱 Download the application from a reliable source (Google Play or the official developer website).
- ⚙️ Go to the settings and select your preferred theme (light or dark).
- 👁️ Activate the display of hidden files in the settings menu for complete control over the system.
- 📂 Set up file sorting by name, date or size for easy searching.
Basic operations with files and folders
The main purpose of any file manager is data manipulation: copying, moving, deleting and renaming. B SX File Explorer these actions are implemented intuitively, but have their own characteristics that increase work efficiency. To perform any operation on a file, you must first select it with a long press, after which a toolbar will appear at the bottom of the screen.
The bulk selection function allows you to work with hundreds of files at the same time. You can select a group of photos, documents or videos and perform one action on them. For example, move all downloaded images from a folder Downloads to a specially created directory Photos in one click. This saves a huge amount of time compared to standard managers.
When moving large amounts of data, the system displays a progress bar and the transfer speed. If you are working with an SD memory card, make sure it is securely inserted into the slot before starting the operation. The writing speed to external drives is usually lower than to the internal memory of the device.
☑️ Algorithm for safely moving files
Deleting files in SX Explorer also has its own nuances. By default, deleted data goes to the application trash, from where it can be restored within a certain time. This serves as additional insurance against accidental loss of important information. However, to free up space on the device, the recycle bin must be emptied manually through the corresponding menu section.
Working with archives and data compression
One of the strengths SX File Explorer is the built-in support for working with archives of various formats. You don't need to install third-party utilities like WinRAR or 7-Zip, since all the necessary functionality is already integrated into the application. Popular compression formats are supported, making this tool a universal solution for data archiving.
To create a new archive, just select the required files, click the operations menu and select the item Compress. In the window that opens, you can specify the name of the archive, select a format (for example, .zip or .rar) and set a password to protect confidential information. The presence of a password ensures that even when transferring the archive to third parties, access to the content will be limited.
Unpacking archives is similarly simple. When you click on an archive file, the application offers to view its contents or extract files to the current or specified folder. SX Explorer correctly processes multi-volume archives and files with a damaged structure, trying to recover the maximum amount of data. This is especially useful when working with files downloaded from untrusted sources.
| Archive format | Creation support | Unpacking support | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZIP | Yes | Yes | The most popular format, high compatibility |
| RAR | Yes | Yes | High compression ratio, password support |
| 7Z | Yes | Yes | Maximum compression, open source |
| TAR/GZ | No | Yes | Often used in Linux systems |
What what to do if the archive does not open?
If an error occurs when trying to unpack, check the integrity of the file. It may have not been downloaded completely or may have been damaged during transmission. Try downloading it again.
Connecting cloud storage and network resources
The modern user stores data not only on the device, but also in the cloud. SX Explorer allows you to integrate popular cloud services directly into the application interface, creating a single file system. This eliminates the need to switch between different applications to access files on Google Drive, Dropbox or Yandex.Disk.
To connect the service you need to go to the sidebar menu, select the “Cloud” section and add a new account. After authorization, the cloud storage folders will be displayed along with the local directories of the smartphone. You can copy files from your phone to the cloud and back using standard drag-and-drop operations or the context menu.
In addition to clouds, the application supports working with network storage via the SMB i FTPprotocols. This allows you to access files on your home computer or network attached storage (NAS) directly from your phone while on the same Wi-Fi network. The function is indispensable for streaming video from a computer to a TV or tablet without first copying files.
⚠️ Attention: When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, use caution when accessing network resources. Attackers can intercept unencrypted traffic. It is recommended to use protocolSFTPinstead of the usualFTPfor secure data transfer.
Advanced functions: Root access and system settings
For users who have received root access on their device, SX File Explorer opens up the possibilities of deep system integration. The application can work in superuser mode, allowing you to edit system files, remove pre-installed software (bloatware) and change the OS configuration. However, such actions require high qualifications and caution.
When you enable root mode in the application settings, access to the root directory appears /system. This is where critical components of the operating system are stored. Changing file permissions (chmod) or deleting them may cause the device to not work (bootloop). Always create backup copies before making changes to the system partition.
The built-in text editor allows you to open and modify configuration files with the extension .xml, .prop or .ini. This is useful for fine-tuning system settings that are not accessible through the standard Android settings menu. For example, you can change the pixel density of the screen or disable certain Google services.
# Example of a path to a system file for editing
/system/build.prop
The storage analysis function helps visualize memory usage. The app creates a graph showing which file types take up the most space. This allows you to quickly find and delete forgotten videos or caches of heavy games, freeing up gigabytes of free space.
Root mode gives full control over the system, but an error in editing system files may lead to the need to flash the device.
Problem solving and data security
During operation, users may encounter various problems, such such as lack of rights to write to a memory card or the inability to open a certain file. In Android version 11 and higher, access to the file system is limited by the security policy Scoped Storage. SX Explorer requests special permissions for working with external drives, which must be granted manually in the system window.
If the application does not see files on the SD card, check the permission settings in the Android menu itself. Go to Settings → Applications → SX Explorer → Permissions and make sure that access to the storage is allowed. Memory cards may require additional authorization through the system folder selection interface.
Data security is also a priority. The application allows you to hide confidential files or encrypt them. The Hide Files feature makes them invisible in normal browsing mode, and can only be accessed through a special section with a password or fingerprint. This is a reliable way to protect personal photos and documents from prying eyes.
⚠️ Attention: The Android operating system interfaces and Google security policies are updated regularly. If you cannot find the described setting, check that the application version is up to date and check the official documents of your version of Android.
Why does copying to a memory card not work?
On new versions of Android, direct access to the root of the SD card is blocked. You need to give permission to the application to manage a specific folder on the card through the system dialog.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to use SX Explorer to work with system files?
Using the application is safe if you are working in normal user mode. Risks arise only when you enable root access and edit files in the folder /system. In this case, responsibility for the performance of the system lies with the user.
Does the application support work with FTP servers?
Yes, SX File Explorer has a built-in FTP client and server. You can connect to a remote server or turn your phone into an FTP server to transfer files from your computer over Wi-Fi without using cables.
Is it possible to recover deleted files through this application?
The application has a built-in trash can where deleted files are stored until it is cleared. However, if the file was deleted past the recycle bin (for example, using the Shift+Delete key combination in the emulator or during a crash), recovery is only possible using specialized data recovery utilities.
Why does the application ask for so many permissions?
A file manager by its nature requires access to all storage sections to perform its functions. Permissions to access media, files and multimedia are necessary for the correct display and management of the content of your device.
Does the app have a built-in player for video and music?
Yes, SX Explorer there is a built-in basic media player that allows you to play audio and video files directly from the manager interface. However, for complex formats or equalizer settings, it is better to use specialized players.