This article will help you understand everything you need to know about the System32 folder on your Windows machine. Here is all the information you require on the OS installation’s System32 folder. Additionally, we’ll explain how to access the System32 subdirectory.
The System32 folder, what is it?
All of the operating system files and a few crucial files from the numerous installed programmes on your Windows computer are located in the System32 folder. Windows typically keeps the executable files for its built-in programmes in the System32 subdirectory. The executable files for the Calculator (calc.exe), Command Prompt (cmd.exe), Certificate Manager (certmgr.msc), Disk Cleanup Tool (cleanmgr.exe), etc. are examples.
On a larger scale, two things occur when you install an application. The primary program’s DLL (which contains its functions, etc.) is saved in System32 directories, whereas the program’s EXE is installed in the Programs folder. This is standard procedure.
You might occasionally need to access the System32 folder for a specific purpose. If so, you can easily open it using the following techniques. Four distinct approaches of opening the System32 folder on Windows computers have been described.
How to access System32 in Windows 11/10
Use one of these techniques to open the System32 folder in Windows 11 or 10.
- File Explorer is used.
- the Run command
- Utilizing the Taskbar search box
- Windows Terminal usage
Continue reading to find out more about these techniques.
1] First open File Explorer.
The System32 folder on your computer can be accessed in this manner the most frequently. On your computer, launch File Explorer and go to this location:
C:\Windows\System32
It is the System32 folder’s default location. The System32 folder can be located on your computer using the same path even if you use third-party file manager software.
2] Using the Run command
Users can quickly open a variety of apps and folders using the Run prompt. The primary distinction between the first and second approaches, though, is that this approach requires complete knowledge of the route. On the other side, Windows 11/10 allows you to open the System32 folder by simply moving between folders.
These steps will show you how to open the System32 folder in Windows 11/10 using the Run prompt:
- To open the Run prompt, press Win+R.
- Put this in the blank field: C:\Windows\ System32
- Select OK by clicking.
It immediately launches the System32 subdirectory.
3] Utilizing the Taskbar search box
Since users must know the complete path in order to open the System32 folder using the Taskbar search box, this method is quite similar to the second one. These steps should help you open the System32 folder using the Taskbar search option:
- On the Taskbar, select the search icon.
- Put this in: C:\Windows\System32
- Select a specific search result by clicking it.
4] Making use of Windows Terminal
You can use this method even if it is less user-friendly than other methods if File Explorer cannot be opened or keeps crashing. Follow these instructions to open the System32 folder using the Windows Terminal:
- Open the WinX menu by pressing Win+X.
- Decide on Terminal (Admin).
- On the UAC prompt, click the Yes button.
- Verify that the Command Prompt instance is active.
- Type the following command: cd /windows/system32.
- the following command: dir
The Windows Terminal window shows the whole contents of the System32 folder.
Where can I find the System32 folder?
The System32 folder is located at C:WindowsSystem32. These methods can be used to access the System32 folder on Windows 11/10. There are other approaches, such as using Taskbar searches, Windows Terminal, Command Prompt, and Run prompt.
What do the two tmp directories in the System32 folder contain?
What purpose does the System32 folder serve?
Probably the most significant folder on your computer is the System32 folder. When you first install Windows, it automatically creates this folder for you. It includes all of the operating system’s programme files as well as some of the files for various built-in tools.
Read: The System32 folder launches by default.
How do I use Command Prompt to access System32?
You must first launch Command Prompt with administrator privileges in order to reach the System32 folder. To do that, perform a search for cmd, select Run as administrator from the menu, and then select Yes from the UAC prompt. then type the following command: dir. The System32 folder’s contents will be displayed.
