How to Open a New Window: A Complete Guide Opening a new window is a fundamental task when working with computers, whether you're browsing the web, managing files, or writing code. This guide covers all the major methods across Windows, macOS, Linux, and popular web browsers. 1. In a Web Browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari, etc.) Most of the time, "opening a new window" refers to creating an additional browser window separate from the current one. Method 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts (Fastest)
Windows / Linux: Ctrl + N macOS: Cmd + N
This instantly opens a fresh, blank browser window with your default homepage or new tab page. Method 2: Using the Menu Bar
Windows/Linux: Click the browser's menu (three dots or lines in the top-right) → Select File (if visible) → New Window , or look for New Window directly in the menu. macOS: With the browser active, click File in the top menu bar → New Window . how to open new window
Method 3: Right-Click a Link (Open in New Window) If you want a specific link to open in a brand new window (not a new tab):
Right-click the link. From the context menu, choose Open Link in New Window (exact wording may vary: Open in New Window on some browsers).
Method 4: Drag and Drop (Advanced)
Drag a link or a browser tab outside the current browser window and release. On most modern browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox), this detaches the tab into a new window.
2. Opening a New File Explorer / Finder Window When managing files, you often need a separate window to copy or move items. Windows (File Explorer)
Keyboard: Windows + E (opens a new File Explorer window). To open another one while one is already open, press Ctrl + N inside an existing File Explorer window. Mouse: Right-click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar → Select File Explorer again, or click New Window from the jump list. Menu: Inside File Explorer, click File (top-left) → Open new window . How to Open a New Window: A Complete
macOS (Finder)
Keyboard: Cmd + N when Finder is active. Menu: With Finder active, click File → New Finder Window . Dock: Right-click (or two-finger click) the Finder icon in the Dock → Select New Finder Window .