Windows 11 supports dragging files, folders, text, and other items between many locations and apps. The exact result depends on what you drag and where you drop it.
How to Drag and Drop a File
- Open File Explorer and locate the file or folder.
- Press and hold the left mouse button on the item.
- Move the pointer to the destination while continuing to hold the button.
- Release the mouse button when the destination is highlighted or ready to accept the item.
Moving vs. Copying Files
In File Explorer, dragging within the same drive commonly moves a file, while dragging to another drive commonly copies it. Because the result can vary by destination, watch the on-screen indicator before releasing the mouse button. You can also use Cut/Copy and Paste when you want more predictable control.
Drag Items to the Taskbar
Current Windows 11 versions support common drag-and-drop workflows involving open apps and the taskbar. If you are dragging a file into an application, hover over the app’s taskbar button when appropriate, then move into the app window and drop the file where the app accepts it.
If Drag and Drop Is Not Working
Try another file and destination first. Some apps or protected locations do not accept dragged content, and applications running at different privilege levels can behave differently. Restart the affected app or File Explorer if a normally supported drag-and-drop action has stopped responding.
Touch and Touchpad Use
On a touchpad, press or click and hold the item while moving it. On a touchscreen, touch and hold an item before dragging when the app supports that gesture.
Summary
Press and hold an item, move it to the destination, and release it to drag and drop in Windows 11. Check the on-screen indicator so you know whether Windows will move, copy, or otherwise use the item.