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Windows 11 Enterprise Version 24H2 OS Build-26100.6584 Drag & Drop Files To Explorer For Easy Renaming Broken!

Matthew 0 Reputation points
2025-09-17T13:41:06.85+00:00

Wow! My users are ANGRY!~

Summary of the Issue

  • In Windows 11 (22H2 and newer), Microsoft redesigned File Explorer using WinUI 3, which changed how the address bar handles drag-and-drop.
  • Previously, dragging a file into another Explorer window’s address bar would insert the file name or full path.
  • Now, this behavior is disabled or redirected to navigation/copy actions — the address bar no longer accepts dropped file objects as text input.
Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | User experience | Accessibility
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  1. HenryMai-3878 6,585 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-09-17T14:35:15.4033333+00:00

    Hi Matthew, I am Henry and I'd like to offer some insight into your issue.

    This is expected behavior starting with Windows 11 (22H2+) — the new WinUI 3 File Explorer no longer allows dragging files into the address bar to insert the path.

    The official alternatives are:

    1. Keyboard Shortcut – Copy as Path
      • Select the file.
      • Press Ctrl + Shift + C.
      • The full file path is copied to clipboard and can be pasted into Explorer, command line, or any dialog.
    2. Mouse Method – Context Menu
      • Right-click the file.
      • Choose Copy as path. (On some builds, hold Shift + Right-Click to see the option).

    These are the supported replacements for the removed drag-and-drop behavior.

    If this guidance helps, feel free to click “Accept Answer” to let us know we're on the right track.

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