Disable numeric sorting in File Explorer

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Hello all,
I want to disable numeric sorting in File Explorer. Back in Windows 3.0 until Windows XP, files were sorted literally, for example, 111test, 112test, 22test, 231test, 99test. When “numerical” sorting was introduced in XP, I seem to recall there was a simple method of returning to the “literal” sort method.
I am now using Windows 8.1 and cannot find a way of invoking “literal” sort without editing the registry.

I need the literal sort. I have over 2000 map files where the numeric file name represents a grid reference. The file names cannot be changed.
As an example, I need to sort 9876_Wagga, 98761N_Wagga, 98761S_Wagga, 98762N_Wagga, 98762S_Wagga, 98763N_Wagga, 98763S_Wagga, 98764N_Wagga, 98764S_Wagga, in that order.

A search of the web has provided the advice to use the “Local Group Policy Editor”, but this is a dead end because Windows 8.1 does not have one.

Can anyone help?

Thanks,
Judith

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Did you try:
Windows key + R
In the run box type gpedit.msc

This brings up the local policy editor in my Win 8.1 Pro.

Jerry

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Thanks Jerry. Yes I have tried gpedit.msc in the Run box. Windows cannot find it. Trying to find and download gpedit.msc just led to another dead end.
Judith

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I’m not sure but the policy editor may only exist in the pro version of Windows 8.1. You could try installing it following the directions given here:
http://www.rushinformation.com/windows-find-gpedit-msc-error-windows-78-fixed/

Its a third party site and I haven’t tried it myself, so do so at your own risk. If you do try it, I would make a backup image of your current installation or at a minimum, a System Restore point.

Jerry

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Thanks Jerry.
Looks like it’s less problematic to edit the registry than to download a third party Policy Editor. I shall give it a go.

Judith

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