Grouping vs Folders: What’s the difference?

Grouping organizes files dynamically by a selected field (e.g., File Type, Related Object, Related Record). Folders organize files manually into named structures with row/list actions for curated organization. Use both: grouping for fast, data-driven slices; folders for durable navigation.  

Grouping (data-driven) 

Admins enable Group By and can set a default grouping field. End-users see collapsible sections in List and visually distinct groups in Tile. Grouping is available when the source is Files or Attachments (not Both) and interacts with File Tree settings.  

Folders (curated) 

Custom folders can be enabled so end users create/move/rename/delete and download folders, including nested structures. Folder actions depend on configuration; Slider shows previews but not folder-level actions. Folder structure is per record.  

Considerations 

• File Tree provides hierarchical navigation across related objects; its Folder view and grouping options affect what users see.  

• When Folder View is enabled in File Tree, some grouping attributes are intentionally unavailable.  

Related: Views: Tile, List, Slider · File Tree · Custom Folders