Microsoft Admits Windows 11 File Explorer Is Slower, Promises 30% Faster File Deletion

Microsoft has acknowledged that File Explorer in Windows 11 is slower than its predecessor and says it is actively working on improvements designed to boost performance across file management tasks.

The company revealed the plans during a recent Windows Insider meetup in the United States, according to a report from Windows Latest. Among the changes currently being tested is a significant speed increase for bulk file deletion, one of the areas where users have reported sluggish performance.

Microsoft Targets Faster Bulk File Deletion

Microsoft says it is internally testing optimizations that could make batch file deletion operations more than 30% faster on Windows 11.

The company described the 30% figure as a baseline improvement, meaning some users could experience even greater performance gains depending on their hardware configuration and workload.

The enhancement is expected to reach Windows Insiders in the coming weeks before eventually rolling out to the broader Windows 11 user base through future updates.

Why File Deletion Can Be Slow

Deleting files may seem like a simple task, but several factors influence how quickly Windows can complete the operation.

Storage hardware remains an important factor. SSDs and HDDs with faster random input/output performance generally handle large numbers of small files more efficiently. However, hardware is only part of the equation.

Windows itself introduces additional overhead during file deletion. When a file is removed, the operating system must update NTFS file system entries, permissions, indexes, thumbnails, metadata, and other related information. These background processes can slow down deletion tasks, particularly when dealing with hundreds or thousands of files.

Broader Improvements Planned for File Operations

The company is not limiting its efforts to file deletion alone.

Microsoft says it is also exploring ways to improve other common file operations, including file transfers and copying. The broader objective is to make Windows 11 feel smoother and more responsive throughout the operating system.

The initiative highlights Microsoft’s growing focus on deeper system-level performance enhancements rather than concentrating solely on user interface refinements.

Additional Windows 11 Changes on the Way

The performance improvements arrive alongside several other Windows 11 updates currently in development.

Microsoft recently confirmed plans to make the right-click context menu faster and more customizable, addressing another long-standing complaint from users. The company is also bringing back the classic Refresh option that many Windows users have requested since the launch of Windows 11.

In addition, Microsoft plans to address WinUI 3 application resizing issues later this summer, a move aimed at improving the overall desktop experience and application responsiveness.

With faster file operations, context menu enhancements, and fixes for WinUI 3-related issues, Microsoft appears to be placing renewed emphasis on improving the everyday usability and performance of Windows 11.