Are you tired of being stuck with the default file manager on your operating system? Do you wish you had more control over how you manage your files and folders? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take you through a comprehensive guide on how to change the default file manager on your computer, regardless of whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Why Change The Default File Manager?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of changing the default file manager, let’s explore why you would want to do so in the first place. The default file manager that comes with your operating system is often limited in its features and functionality. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider switching to a third-party file manager:
Limited Customization Options : Default file managers often have limited customization options, which can be frustrating if you have specific needs or preferences. Third-party file managers, on the other hand, offer a wide range of customization options, allowing you to tailor the interface and functionality to your liking.
Slow Performance : Default file managers can be slow and clunky, especially when dealing with large files or folders. Third-party file managers are often optimized for performance, providing a faster and more seamless experience.
Lack of Advanced Features : Default file managers often lack advanced features, such as file encryption, compression, and scripting capabilities. Third-party file managers, on the other hand, offer a wide range of advanced features that can help you manage your files more efficiently.
Choosing An Alternative File Manager
Before we dive into the process of changing the default file manager, let’s take a look at some of the popular alternative file managers available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Windows
- File Explorer Alternative: Total Commander – Total Commander is a popular file manager for Windows that offers a wide range of features, including file compression, encryption, and scripting capabilities.
- File Explorer Alternative: Directory Opus – Directory Opus is a powerful file manager for Windows that offers advanced features, such as file encryption, compression, and customizable interfaces.
MacOS
- Finder Alternative: Forklift – Forklift is a popular file manager for macOS that offers a wide range of features, including file compression, encryption, and customizable interfaces.
- Finder Alternative: Path Finder – Path Finder is a powerful file manager for macOS that offers advanced features, such as file encryption, compression, and customizable interfaces.
Linux
- Nautilus Alternative: Nemo – Nemo is a popular file manager for Linux that offers a wide range of features, including file compression, encryption, and customizable interfaces.
- Nautilus Alternative: Dolphin – Dolphin is a powerful file manager for Linux that offers advanced features, such as file encryption, compression, and customizable interfaces.
Changing The Default File Manager On Windows
Now that we’ve explored why you might want to change the default file manager and looked at some popular alternative file managers, let’s take a step-by-step look at how to change the default file manager on Windows.
Step 1: Download And Install The Alternative File Manager
The first step is to download and install the alternative file manager of your choice. In this example, we’ll use Total Commander.
- Download the Total Commander installer from the official website.
- Run the installer and follow the prompts to install Total Commander.
Step 2: Set Total Commander As The Default File Manager
Once Total Commander is installed, you need to set it as the default file manager.
- Right-click on the Start button and select System.
- Click on Default apps on the left-hand side of the window.
- Scroll down to the Choose default apps by file type section.
- Click on the Choose default apps by protocol link.
- Scroll down to the Folders section and click on the Choose a default button.
- Select Total Commander from the list of available file managers.
- Click OK to save the changes.
Changing The Default File Manager On MacOS
Changing the default file manager on macOS is a bit more complex than on Windows, but still relatively straightforward.
Step 1: Download And Install The Alternative File Manager
The first step is to download and install the alternative file manager of your choice. In this example, we’ll use Forklift.
- Download the Forklift installer from the official website.
- Run the installer and follow the prompts to install Forklift.
Step 2: Set Forklift As The Default File Manager
Once Forklift is installed, you need to set it as the default file manager.
- Open the Terminal app on your Mac.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
defaults write com.apple.finder NSFileManager -string com.binarynights.ForkLift - Restart your Mac to apply the changes.
Changing The Default File Manager On Linux
Changing the default file manager on Linux is relatively straightforward, and the process varies depending on the Linux distribution you’re using.
Step 1: Download And Install The Alternative File Manager
The first step is to download and install the alternative file manager of your choice. In this example, we’ll use Nemo.
- Open a terminal window and type the following command to install Nemo:
sudo apt-get install nemo - Press Enter to install Nemo.
Step 2: Set Nemo As The Default File Manager
Once Nemo is installed, you need to set it as the default file manager.
- Open the File Associations window by typing the following command and pressing Enter:
xdg-mime default nemo.desktop inode/directory - Close the terminal window to apply the changes.
Conclusion
Changing the default file manager on your operating system can greatly improve your productivity and workflow. With the right file manager, you can customize the interface and functionality to suit your specific needs, and take advantage of advanced features such as file encryption, compression, and scripting capabilities. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, this article has provided a step-by-step guide on how to change the default file manager and take control of your files and folders.
Why Do I Need To Change My File Manager?
Changing your file manager can greatly improve your productivity and overall user experience. The default file manager that comes with your operating system may not have all the features you need, or it may not be customizable to your liking. By changing your file manager, you can get features such as customizable layouts, advanced search functionality, and integration with other apps and services. Additionally, some file managers are more secure than others, offering advanced encryption and access control.
By switching to a different file manager, you can also get rid of any limitations or restrictions that may be holding you back. For example, some default file managers may not allow you to customize the layout or add custom columns, which can make it difficult to organize your files efficiently. By changing your file manager, you can take control of your file organization and workflow, and make it more efficient and effective.
Is It Difficult To Change My File Manager?
Changing your file manager is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps. You don’t need to have any advanced technical knowledge or skills, and you can usually do it without any assistance. Most file managers offer a simple installation process, and once you’ve installed the new file manager, you can start using it right away. Additionally, many file managers offer a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to get started, even if you’re not familiar with the software.
That being said, you may need to take some time to get accustomed to the new file manager’s interface and features. You may need to read the user manual or watch some tutorial videos to learn how to use the advanced features. However, most file managers are designed to be user-friendly, and you can usually start using them right away. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to take full advantage of your new file manager’s features and capabilities.
What Are Some Popular Alternative File Managers?
There are many popular alternative file managers available, each with its own set of features and capabilities. Some popular options include Total Commander, Directory Opus, and FreeCommander. These file managers offer advanced features such as customizable layouts, advanced search functionality, and integration with other apps and services. They also offer a high degree of customizability, allowing you to tailor the interface and features to your specific needs and preferences.
Additionally, there are also many open-source file managers available, such as Dolphin and Nautilus. These file managers are free to use and distribute, and they often have large communities of developers and users who contribute to their development and provide support. They may not have all the features of commercial file managers, but they can still offer a high degree of functionality and customizability.
Will I Lose My Files If I Change My File Manager?
No, changing your file manager will not affect your files in any way. Your files will remain intact and will still be accessible even after you switch to a new file manager. The file manager only provides a way to organize and manage your files, it does not store them. Your files will still be stored on your hard drive or cloud storage, and you can access them using any file manager or other application.
However, you may need to re-organize your files and folders to take advantage of the new file manager’s features. For example, you may need to re-create your folder structure or re-organize your files into different categories. But your files themselves will not be affected, and you can still access them just like before.
Can I Use Multiple File Managers At The Same Time?
Yes, you can use multiple file managers at the same time, depending on your needs and preferences. You may want to use one file manager for general file management, and another for more specialized tasks such as file compression or encryption. Some file managers may offer features that are not available in others, so you may want to use multiple file managers to take advantage of their unique features.
However, using multiple file managers can also lead to confusion and disorganization. You may need to keep track of which file manager you used to organize your files, and you may need to switch back and forth between different file managers depending on your needs. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to choose one file manager that meets your needs and stick with it, rather than using multiple file managers at the same time.
Will Changing My File Manager Affect My Operating System?
Changing your file manager will not affect your operating system in any significant way. The file manager is a separate application that runs on top of the operating system, and it does not modify or replace any system files or settings. The operating system will continue to function as normal, and you will still be able to use all its features and applications.
However, some file managers may require additional software or libraries to be installed, which can affect your operating system’s performance or stability. Additionally, some file managers may have compatibility issues with certain operating system features or applications, so you may need to troubleshoot these issues if you encounter them.
Can I Go Back To My Default File Manager If I Don’t Like The New One?
Yes, you can always go back to your default file manager if you’re not satisfied with the new one. Most file managers offer an easy uninstallation process, and you can usually remove them without affecting your system or files. Once you’ve uninstalled the new file manager, your default file manager will be restored to its original state, and you can continue using it as before.
However, you may need to re-organize your files and folders to match the default file manager’s layout and structure. Additionally, you may lose any customizations or settings you made in the new file manager, so you may need to re-configure them if you decide to go back to the default file manager.