What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
You can create folders in File Explorer, rename or delete items from their context menus, and use PowerShell for the same tasks. In Windows 11, Rename and Delete appear in the streamlined right-click menu; select Show more options for the older menu. The instructions apply to Windows 10 too, though standard Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025.
Create Files or Folders with File Explorer
Open File Explorer from the taskbar or Start, or press Windows logo key + E. Navigate to the location where you want to create the item.
- To create a folder, select New > Folder, type a name, and press Enter. You can also press Ctrl + Shift + N to create a folder.
- To create a file, select New and choose an available file type, if one is listed. Options such as Text Document depend on file types registered by installed apps and may not appear on every PC.
In a Save As window, you can also select New Folder, enter a name, and select OK.
Create Files or Folders with PowerShell
PowerShell’s New-Item cmdlet creates files and folders. Specify a location, item name, and item type. A file name should include its extension.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →#1 Best Overall
- Easily store and access 2TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
For example, these commands create a folder and a text file on the current user’s desktop:
PowerShell commands:
$desktopPath = [Environment]::GetFolderPath(“Desktop”)
New-Item -Path $desktopPath -Name “papaya” -ItemType Directory
New-Item -Path $desktopPath -Name “papaya.txt” -ItemType File
To create a folder in the current directory instead, use New-Item -Path . -Name “Logfiles” -ItemType Directory. The period represents the current directory.
Rename Files or Folders with File Explorer
Select a file or folder in File Explorer and press F2, or right-click it and select Rename. In Windows 11, Rename is shown as a command or icon at the top of the streamlined context menu. If you do not see it, select Show more options.
Rank #2
- Easily store and access 4TB of content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive.Specific uses: Personal
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Type the new name and press Enter. If file name extensions are visible, take care not to change the extension unless that is what you intend. To show or hide extensions, select View > Show > File name extensions.
Rename Files or Folders with PowerShell
Use PowerShell’s Rename-Item cmdlet to rename an item. Its -NewName value must be the new name, not a different destination path. Rename-Item does not move the item or replace an existing item with the same destination name.
This example renames a file in a specified folder:
PowerShell command:
Rename-Item -Path “C:\\logfiles\\daily_file.txt” -NewName “monday_file.txt”
Change the path and names to match your item. To move and rename an item at the same time, use Move-Item rather than Rename-Item.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Easily store and access 1TB to content on the go with the Seagate Portable Drive, a USB external hard drive.Specific uses: Personal
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop. Reformatting may be required for Mac
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Delete Files or Folders with File Explorer
Select the item, right-click it, and select Delete. In Windows 11, Delete appears in the streamlined context menu; select Show more options if you need the older menu. Pressing Delete moves the item to the Recycle Bin. Press Shift + Delete to permanently delete it without using the Recycle Bin.
Delete Files or Folders with PowerShell
PowerShell’s Remove-Item cmdlet deletes files and folders. Verify the path before running a deletion command. Use -Recurse only when you intend to remove a folder and its contents; -Force can remove hidden or read-only items, subject to permissions.
To delete one file:
PowerShell command:
Remove-Item -Path “C:\\Temp\\file.txt”
To delete a folder and its contents:
PowerShell command:
Remove-Item -Path “C:\\Temp\\Folder” -Recurse
For a recursive search and deletion of matching files, Microsoft documents this pattern:
PowerShell command:
Get-ChildItem * -Include *.csv -Recurse | Remove-Item
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Rank #4
- Ultra Slim and Sturdy Metal Design: Merely 0.4 inch thick. All-Aluminum anti-scratch model delivers remarkable strength and durability, keeping this portable hard drive running cool and quiet.
- Compatibility: It is compatible with Microsoft Windows 7/8/10, and provides fast and stable performance for PC, Laptop.
- Improve PC Performance: Powered by USB 3.0 technology, this USB hard drive is much faster than - but still compatible with - USB 2.0 backup drive, allowing for super fast transfer speed at up to 5 Gbit/s.
- Plug and Play: This external drive is ready to use without external power supply or software installation needed. Ideal extra storage for your computer.
- What's Included: Portable external hard drive, 19-inch(48.26cm) USB 3.0 hard drive cable, user's manual, 3-Year manufacturer warranty with free technical support service.
Check the selected files before piping results to Remove-Item, especially when using wildcards or recursion.
FAQ
Why is Rename or Delete missing from the Windows 11 right-click menu?
Windows 11’s streamlined context menu displays Rename and Delete as commands or icons at the top. Select Show more options to open the older full context menu.
How do I create a folder quickly in File Explorer?
Navigate to the desired location and press Ctrl + Shift + N. Type the folder name and press Enter.
Does pressing Delete permanently delete a file?
In File Explorer, Delete normally moves the selected item to the Recycle Bin. Shift + Delete bypasses the Recycle Bin. PowerShell Remove-Item deletes the specified item rather than sending it to the Recycle Bin.
Best Value
- 【Versatile Storage Expansion – For Gaming, Work & Everyday Use】 Running out of space on your PS5 or Xbox Series X/S? This external hard drive lets you store and play PS4 / Xbox One games directly, instantly freeing up your console’s internal storage for next‑gen titles. At the same time, it handles work file backups, media libraries, and cross‑device data transfers with ease. One drive, all your needs. *（Note: PS5 / Xbox Series X|S games cannot be run or stored directly from the external hard drive. However, by offloading your PS4 / Xbox One games, you can free up valuable space for newer titles.）*
- 【Patented Silicone Sleeve – Data Protection You Can Count On】 Worried about drops? We’ve got you covered. The patented built‑in silicone sleeve acts like a shock‑absorbing armor, cushioning your drive against bumps and falls. Whether it’s important work documents, precious family photos, or hard‑earned game saves, your data deserves this level of protection.
- 【Plug & Play, Compatible with Computers & Consoles】 No complicated setup—just plug in and go. Works seamlessly with Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, as well as PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Process files at the office, back up data at home, or enjoy gaming in your downtime—one drive handles all your devices, simply and hassle‑free.
- 【USB 3.0 Ultra‑Fast Transfer – No More Waiting】 Tired of watching progress bars crawl? With USB 3.0 speeds up to 5Gbps, large files transfer in seconds. Whether you’re moving work documents, transferring hundreds of gigs of games, or backing up a year’s worth of photos, you get more done in less time.
- 【Sleek, Lightweight, and Ready to Go】 Weighing just 0.16 kg—lighter than a can of soda—this compact drive features a stylish mirror‑and‑frosted finish. Toss it in your bag and go, whether you’re heading to the office, visiting a friend for a gaming session, or giving a presentation on the road.
Why can’t Rename-Item move a file to another folder?
Rename-Item changes an item’s name in its current location. Its -NewName parameter accepts a new name, not another path. Use Move-Item when you need to move and rename an item.
Can I create a text file from File Explorer’s New menu?
Only if Text Document or another file type is available in that menu. The available file types depend on the apps installed and their file-type registrations. PowerShell New-Item can create a blank file when you specify ItemType File and a name with an extension.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Conclusion
File Explorer is a straightforward way to create folders, rename items, and send deleted items to the Recycle Bin. PowerShell offers command-line alternatives; take care to check paths and understand the effect of recursive or permanent deletion commands.
Kindly let me know by responding to the “Was this page helpful?” question below. Before you go, why not check out our other Windows 11 how-to guides?
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
