How can I add a tab to file explorer from a c# program?

Hi @Robert Dukelow ,

Thank you for bringing this question to our attention. I’m glad to help clarify the situation.

From your description, it sounds like you’re looking to open your C# application as a new tab within Windows File Explorer. Unfortunately, this scenario isn’t currently supported. File Explorer tabs are implemented internally using XAML and WinUI, and they are not exposed for third‑party automation. As a result, there is no official or supported API that allows external applications — such as those built with C# — to create or control Explorer tabs programmatically.

That said, you may want to consider the following alternative approaches, depending on your requirements:

Open a folder in File Explorer using C#: While this can launch File Explorer to a specific location, the behavior (such as whether it opens in a new window or tab) is not guaranteed and cannot be reliably controlled.

Develop a custom file browser with tab support: Building your own solution using WinForms or WPF would give you full control over the UI and tab behavior, if that level of customization is important for your application.

I hope this information helps you evaluate the options and choose an approach that best fits your needs. If you have any additional questions or would like to discuss these alternatives further, please feel free to leave a comment and I’ll be happy to follow up.

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Have a great day!