Microsoft is quietly reworking how File Explorer operates under the hood, and the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 brings a subtle yet important optimization. It targets one of Windows’ most persistent pain points memory efficiency by eliminating duplicate file indexing operations that have long bogged down search speed and consumed RAM unnecessarily.

File Explorer update cuts RAM drain with smarter indexing

The newest File Explorer tweak is designed to sidestep redundant cataloging of files across multiple drives. Instead of re-indexing identical paths and wasting memory in the process, the updated system focuses on a single, more efficient scan. That means less strain on RAM and quicker access when you’re searching through folders.

Even though this update doesn’t revamp File Explorer visually, it changes how Windows 11 handles file search operations. As RAM prices continue climbing, Microsoft’s move could help users squeeze more life out of aging hardware without performance compromises.

Windows 11 File Explorer update targets aging devices

Microsoft is rolling out the new feature through a Controlled Feature Rollout to Dev and Beta channel Insiders. The goal is clear: make Windows 11 more responsive, even on systems no longer at the cutting edge.

Here’s what the update changes behind the scenes:

• Reduces duplicate file-indexing operations
• Frees up RAM for other tasks
• Improves file search performance noticeably
• Lowers background disk activity

These changes won’t magically transform low-end PCs, but they do offer a meaningful boost, especially for users stuck on older laptops with 8GB or less memory.

Performance improvements come at the right time

This is more than just a quality-of-life fix. With Microsoft’s new Copilot+ PCs requiring at least 16GB of DDR5 or LPDDR5, there’s increasing pressure on users to upgrade. But in a market where DRAM prices are climbing fast, many are choosing to stick with older hardware.

That’s why File Explorer’s optimization matters. It might not push performance into overdrive, but it does give Windows 11 users a more stable experience without requiring more RAM.

Update still limited, but full rollout coming soon

Right now, the changes are only available to Insider Preview users on Build 26220.7523. Those eager to try it can toggle “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” in their settings menu. A broader rollout is expected to land in early 2026.

In the meantime, Microsoft’s choice to streamline background processes rather than just add new ones is a rare win for memory efficiency. It’s a quiet but welcome move that could help File Explorer finally feel lighter on its feet.

Windows 11 won’t shed its reputation as a resource-heavy OS overnight. But updates like this show Microsoft is at least trying to trim the fat.