What’s Winfile.exe (File Manager)? Is it safe or a virus?

The file named Winfile.exe from Microsoft Corporation is the executable for the Windows File Manager, a graphical file management program originally introduced in Windows 3.0. It was the standard file manager in Windows versions from 1990 until it was replaced by Windows Explorer in Windows 95. Despite being superseded, the program remained included in some later versions of Windows, such as Windows NT 4.0 and Windows Me.

In 2018, Microsoft released an updated version of Windows File Manager as open-source software under the MIT License. This modernized version was adapted to run on contemporary Windows operating systems, including Windows 10 and later. It was made available through the Microsoft Store and on GitHub. The updated version retained the classic interface while incorporating enhancements like support for long file names, improved keyboard shortcuts, and compatibility with modern Windows features.

If you have Winfile.exe on your system, it's likely because you or someone else installed this updated version to use the classic file management interface. Some users prefer it for its simplicity or for nostalgic reasons. However, it's worth noting that Microsoft archived the GitHub repository for Windows File Manager in March 2025, indicating that it is no longer actively maintained. While the application can still be used, users should be aware that it won't receive further updates or official support.

Researched by Laura @ SpyShelter Labs