Total Commander
Total Commander: A Classic File Manager That Stands the Test of Time
If you’ve ever felt limited by Windows Explorer or wanted more power and flexibility in managing your files, chances are you’ve heard of Total Commander. Developed by Swiss programmer Christian Ghisler, Total Commander is a dual-pane file manager that works in both Microsoft Windows and Android environments. It offers a powerful alternative to standard file management tools, drawing inspiration from the old-school “orthodox” file managers like Norton Commander.
A Brief History
The software made its debut on September 25, 1993, under the original name Windows Commander. However, in November 2002, it was renamed to Total Commander following pressure from Microsoft over the use of the “Windows” brand.
Despite being around for decades, Total Commander remains hugely popular — and not just among power users. By 2004, over 100,000 legal licenses had been sold. The actual user base is believed to be much higher, thanks in part to the program’s unique approach to licensing.
Features and Licensing Model
One of Total Commander’s enduring strengths is its feature-rich environment paired with user-friendly ergonomics. It supports file previewing, batch operations, archive handling, FTP/SFTP, and even supports plugins for extended functionality — such as the Imagine plugin for viewing graphic files.
Total Commander is distributed under a shareware license. This means users can try the software for one month, after which they are expected to purchase a lifetime license for just $34 USD. Unlike most modern software, Total Commander doesn’t enforce its licensing through intrusive means. The only technical “protection” is a quirky prompt at startup where users must click one of three randomly selected buttons. There’s no countdown, no trial expiration enforcement, and no blocked features — a rarity in today’s world.
Interestingly, the Windows CE and Android versions of the software are completely freeware.
Under the Hood
- Author: Christian Ghisler
- Current Version: 11.55 (as of June 25, 2025)
- Written In: Delphi
- Operating Systems: Microsoft Windows, Windows CE, Android
- Type: File Manager
- License: Shareware (Windows); Freeware (CE & Android)
Whether you’re a long-time user or someone just discovering it for the first time, Total Commander remains a reliable, no-nonsense tool for file management. Its old-school appearance belies a modern, robust core that continues to evolve while respecting its roots.
Happy file managing!
— Conrad