Windows File Manager (WinFile)
Windows File Manager, also known as WinFile, is being revived and reintroduced as a native desktop application for x86, x64, and ARM64 architectures. It is compatible with all currently supported versions of Windows, including Windows 11. The project is open to thoughts, comments, and suggestions from users.
Main Versions of the Source Code
The project has two main versions within its master branch:
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original_plus: This version includes the source code for WinFile as it was for Windows NT4, with minimal modifications to ensure compatibility with Visual Studio and current versions of Windows.
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current master: This is the actively developed branch that includes numerous enhancements and additions to the original WinFile.
While the project welcomes bug fixes and minor change suggestions for the master branch, the original_plus sources will not be altered. Users can create pull requests or post issues as they see fit.
How to Download the App
For users running Windows 10, the app can be conveniently downloaded from the Microsoft Store. Alternatively, there are several pre-compiled versions available for direct download, which do not require compiling from the source code:
- Available on Chocolatey.
- Obtainable via Winget using the command:
winget install "Windows File Manager". - Offered through MSYS2.
- The Latest Release on GitHub (v10.3.0.0).
For more release options, including older versions, users can visit the releases page on GitHub.
Historical Background
WinFile was first introduced with Windows 3.0 in the early 1990s. It played a significant role in file management on Windows systems during that time. For those interested in a more detailed historical perspective, more information can be found on Wikipedia.
Changes and Updates
Details about updates and changes in each release are carefully documented in CHANGES.md.
Contributing to the Project
The project encourages contributions and suggestions from the community. However, contributors will need to agree to a Contributor License Agreement (CLA) to grant necessary rights for their contributions. The process for submitting a CLA is facilitated by a CLA-bot, which will guide users when they submit pull requests.
Moreover, the project adheres to the Microsoft Open Source Code of Conduct. For any questions or additional information, contributors can contact [email protected].
For those keen on making a valuable contribution, further guidance can be found by reading this helpful post.
Licensing
The Windows File Manager is licensed under the MIT License, ensuring it can be freely used, modified, and shared.
The reimagining of WinFile not only brings nostalgia for users familiar with its origins but also enhances its functionality to meet modern computing needs. By offering accessibility through multiple platforms and the opportunity for community-driven development, WinFile continues to be a versatile and user-friendly file management tool.