Share this article
Improve this guide
How to Extract Files From Multiple Folders [Easy Steps]
An asterisk can do more when it comes to extracting multiple files
4 min. read
Updated onNovember 2, 2023
updated onNovember 2, 2023
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
Extracting files from a single folder is simple as it only involves copying and pasting from one destination. But, extracting files from multiple folders is a bit difficult as opening and closing multiple folders can be pretty time-consuming.
We’ve already discussed how toextract multiple zip files, but for today, let’s focus on something closer to home. There is no direct option provided in Windows File Explorer to extract all the files at once, but let’s look at some tips that can get you all your files in one place.
Can you extract files from multiple folders at once?
Suppose you have files saved in different folders but want to extract them simultaneously and maybe form a new folder.
The most common way to extract files from a bunch of folders is to open each folder, find the one you want, and then copy it to a different location. This can take a while if you have many folders and many files.
Extracting files from multiple folders is a common task, especially when extracting the contents of an entire folder structure. Depending on how often you extract files from multiple folders, it’s an optional feature that you may or may not need.
Instead ofopening file locationsand copying files from one location to another, you need an easier and quicker method.
Although doing it manually for each folder is possible and the most common way, it is also time-consuming and tedious.
The situation worsens if there are many subfolders and you need to extract only some. To make it easier, you can use built-in File Explorer settings to achieve this. Below, we show you easy ways to extract files from multiple folders in Windows 10 and 11.
How do I get files out of folders at once?
Before you start extracting files, ensure that:
1. Use an asterisk
2. Use a third-party tool
There are many third-party tools available that can help you extract files from multiple folders. One of these is a tool called WinZip. It’s easy to use and allows anyone to extract files from multiple folders at once.
WinZip is a complete archiving and file management solution. This software will make it much easier to share files, due to its high compression rates and encryption features.
⇒Get WinZip
3. Use the compression feature
The only downside of this method is that there is no provision to sort out the files you want. When extracting the files, it will pick all in the folder, even those that are unnecessary. We recommend using the first solution if the folders have too many files.
Hopefully, one of these methods has helped you extract files from multiple folders on Windows 11. We also have an exciting article on how tocreate and extract RAR files, so be sure to check that out too.
If you’re looking to master your file management skills, check our guide on how toautomatically copy files from one folder to another on Windows 11.
Share with us in the comment section what your favorite multiple file extraction method is.
More about the topics:File Explorer,files
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
