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Azure Storage Explorer: Download, Install and Setup Guide

Azure Storage Explorer (often searched as “Windows Azure Storage Explorer”) is a free Microsoft desktop app for managing Azure Storage. With it you can browse, upload, download and organise data in Blob Storage, Azure Files, Queues, Tables and Data Lake Storage Gen2 — without writing code.

It runs on Windows, macOS and Linux. This guide explains its features, how to download and set it up, and when to use it.

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Table of Contents

Main Features of Azure Storage Explorer

windows azure storage explorer
  • Manage Blob containers, file shares, queues, tables and Data Lake Storage Gen2 folders
  • Upload and download with drag and drop (it uses AzCopy for fast transfers)
  • Sign in with Microsoft Entra ID, or connect with a connection string or SAS URL
  • Work with several subscriptions and storage accounts in one place
  • Create and manage SAS tokens and access policies
  • Manage access control lists (ACLs) for Data Lake Storage Gen2
  • Work with the local storage emulator (Azurite) for testing
  • Manage managed disks and snapshots

What Is Azure Storage?

Azure Storage is Microsoft’s cloud storage service. It stores files, images, backups, logs, messages and table data securely, with high availability and the option to keep copies in other zones or regions. Storage Explorer is simply a friendly way to work with that storage from your desktop. Learn more in types of Azure data storage.

Azure Storage Key Features

  • Secure, scalable and highly available storage
  • Supports unstructured data (documents, videos) and structured data (tables, queues)
  • Redundancy options: LRS, ZRS, GRS and GZRS
  • Encryption at rest and in transit
  • Access tiers (Hot, Cool, Cold, Archive) to control cost
  • Works with Azure Data Factory, Databricks, Synapse and Microsoft Fabric

What Is Azure Storage Explorer Used For?

Storage Explorer is used by developers, data engineers and administrators to:

  • Check what files are in a container or data lake folder
  • Upload test data or download outputs from a pipeline
  • Fix permissions and generate SAS links
  • Inspect queue messages and table rows while debugging
  • Copy data between storage accounts

How to Download, Install and Set Up Azure Storage Explorer

  1. Download – go to the official Azure Storage Explorer page and choose Windows, macOS or Linux.
  2. Install – run the installer and follow the steps.
  3. Open the app and click the Connect (plug) icon.
  4. Choose how to connect – sign in with your Azure account (Microsoft Entra ID), or use a connection string or SAS URL.
  5. Select subscriptions – pick the subscriptions you want to see.
  6. Browse – expand storage accounts to see containers, file shares, queues and tables.
  7. Start working – upload, download, create folders or manage access.
windows azure storage explorer
windows azure storage explorer
windows azure storage explorer
windows azure storage explorer
windows azure storage explorer

Why Use Azure Storage Explorer?

  • Easy to use – a simple interface, even for beginners.
  • Saves time – no need to write scripts for common tasks.
  • Fast transfers – built on AzCopy.
  • Secure – supports Entra ID sign-in, SAS and RBAC.
  • Free and cross-platform – Windows, macOS and Linux.

For automation, use the Azure CLI, PowerShell or AzCopy scripts instead.

Frequently Asked Questions About Azure Storage Explorer

What is Azure Storage Explorer?

A free Microsoft desktop app to view and manage Azure Storage — blobs, files, queues, tables and Data Lake Storage Gen2.

Is Azure Storage Explorer free?

Yes. The app is free; you pay only for the Azure Storage you use.

Is “Windows Azure Storage Explorer” different?

No. “Windows Azure” was Azure’s old name. The current app is called Azure Storage Explorer and also runs on macOS and Linux.

How do I connect to my storage account?

Click Connect, then sign in with your Azure account or use a connection string or SAS URL.

Can I use it with Data Lake Storage Gen2?

Yes. You can browse folders and manage ACL permissions.

Is there a web version?

A similar experience is available as Storage browser in the Azure portal.

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