A friend's computer just recently got updated with something for Windows XP. Since then a bunch of work files on a network drive have a shortcut icon next to them and had their extension (.MAT ...

File Explorer is an essential Windows OS component that allows users to manage files and folders on their computers. However, sometimes, it might not respond as expected, causing frustration.

Open the file, confirm changes in the registry and restart your computer. The standard File Explorer in Windows 11 should be back. Credit for the tweak goes to the German blog Deskmodder.