In MPLAB^® X, there are two ways to look at the files in your project. In the top left window, there are typically three tabs by default. The first two are used for looking at the files in your project: theFiles window (discussed here) and theProjects window. Though they may show similar contents, their behavior and functionality are different.

To open the Files window:

Keyboard:		Menu:
Ctrl+2		Window > Files

The Files window is a mini file manager that represents the files and subdirectories of your project directory as they actually are on your hard disk. From this view, you can manipulate files and folders much like you would in your file manager (e.g. Windows Explorer, Thunar, Nautilus, Finder, etc.). Just like in your file manager, you can move, rename, and even delete files. However, be aware that deleting a file in this view will permanently delete the file. It will not be moved to your system's recycling bin.