Definition of file manager

The term "file manager" refers to a software application used to organize, manipulate, and manage files and directories on a computer system. The origin of this term can be traced back to the early days of personal computing in the 1970s and 1980s, when computer systems were text-based and users interacted with them through command-line interfaces. In such environments, users needed a way to efficiently navigate between directories and manipulate files, as there was no graphical user interface (GUI) to provide a visual representation of the file system. Thus, basic file management utilities called "file managers" were developed to provide users with a simpler, more intuitive way to manage their files. The concept of a "file manager" evolved as graphical user interfaces (GUIs) became more prevalent in personal computing. GUIs provided users with a more friendly and visual representation of the file system, allowing additional functions to be added to file managers, such as drag-and-drop functionality, file preview, and search capabilities. In the modern era, file managers have become an essential part of computing, and they are found in all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Their functionality is so crucial that many users consider it a fundamental requirement for an effective computer experience.