On Windows, every application runs from an EXE file (short for executable file). Knowing how to locate a program’s EXE file is useful for many tasks, such as creating shortcuts, adding an app to startup, configuring security software, or troubleshooting software issues. This guide walks you through several simple and reliable ways to find a program’s EXE file on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Method 1: Using the Shortcut
This is the simplest and fastest method if the program already has a shortcut.
Step 1. Locate the Program Shortcut
Find the shortcut on the Desktop, Taskbar, or in the Start menu.
Step 2. Open the File Location
Right-click the shortcut and select Open file location. File Explorer will open the folder where the program is installed. You can look for a file with the .exe extension — this is the executable file.
Method 2: Using Task Manager
If the program is currently running, Task Manager provides a direct way to locate its EXE file.
Step 1. Open Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Step 2. Open the EXE File Location
- Under the Processes tab, find the program. It may be listed under Apps or Background processes.
- Right-click it and select Open file location. File Explorer will open directly to the folder containing the executable file, with the EXE itself highlighted.
Method 3: Using File Explorer
You can manually search for the EXE file using Windows Search.
Step 1. Open File Explorer
Press Win + E or click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar.
Step 2. Navigate and Initiate Search
Navigate to the drive you wish to search (typically C:). Click on the search box in the top-right corner of the window and type .exe. To narrow results, search for the program’s name followed by .exe (e.g., wisediskcleaner.exe).
Method 4: Using Wise JetSearch
If Windows Search feels slow or returns too many results, Wise JetSearch offers a faster and more accurate alternative. Wise JetSearch is a lightweight file search tool that instantly locates files by name across selected drives.
Step 1. Download and Install Wise JetSearch
Download and install Wise JetSearch from the official WiseCleaner website.
Step 2. Launch Wise JetSearch
Open Wise JetSearch. By default, it searches Local Hard Drives (C:, D:, E:), which you can adjust if needed.
Step 3. Enter the EXE File Name
In the Input Keywords field, type the program name or *.exe to search for all executable files.
Step 4. Execute and Analyze the Search
- Click the Search button. Results will populate in the main pane, showing the Name and full Path of every matching file.
- Check the Name, Path and Type columns to identify the correct executable.
- Right-click the result to Open Folder.
Conclusion
Windows provides several built-in ways to locate a program’s EXE file, but for speed and convenience, tools like Wise JetSearch can save significant time—especially when dealing with large drives or unknown installation paths. By using the method that best fits your situation, you can quickly locate any executable file and gain better control over your Windows system.
