Using the Files Tab is a daily action for many Salesforce users. The tab combines upload, browse, share, and search in one location.
- Open the Files Tab
From the App Launcher, search for Files. Click the Files tab. The tab opens with the default list view (typically Owned by Me).
- Upload a new file
Drag a file from your desktop onto the upload zone, or click Upload Files. The file uploads with you as owner; the file starts in Private state.
- Browse with list views
Use the dropdown to switch list views: Owned by Me, Shared with Me, Recent, Following, Libraries. Each shows a filtered subset of files.
- Search for a specific file
Use the search bar to find a file by name, content (for supported formats), or tag. Combine search with list views to narrow further.
- Act on files
Right-click a file (or use the action menu) to Share, Download, Edit metadata, Add to Library, Follow, or Delete. Multi-select for bulk actions.
- Customize your view
Pin frequently-used list views to the top. Save custom search filters for quick recall.
Files where you are the Owner.
Files explicitly shared with you as Viewer or Collaborator.
Files recently viewed or modified.
Content Libraries you have access to; each library is a separate workspace.
Files you follow for change notifications.
- Files uploaded via the tab are Private by default. Sharing happens through the Share action; uploaders sometimes forget.
- Search index is asynchronous. Newly uploaded files may not appear in content-based search for several minutes after upload.
- List view defaults can vary by user. If a user sees a different default, check Lightning App Builder configuration.
- Files Tab in Experience Cloud sites has reduced functionality. External users see fewer actions and views than internal users.