How and Why to Change Default File Explorer Folder

This guide explains how to change the default opening location of File Explorer in Windows 11 and 10. The default "Home" view, while convenient for some, may compromise privacy or workflow efficiency. This tutorial offers three methods to customize this setting.

Why Change the Default File Explorer Location?

The default "Home" view in File Explorer displays recently accessed files and folders. Changing this can offer:

• Improved Workflow: Open directly to a folder crucial to your daily tasks.
• Enhanced Privacy: Hide potentially sensitive files from immediate view.
• Increased Efficiency: Instantly access your most-used folder.

Method 1: Switching to "This PC" or OneDrive (Windows 11)

Windows 11 allows switching the default to "This PC" or "OneDrive" (from build 22593 onwards).

Steps:

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the "More" options (three dots) near "Filter," then select "Options."

3. In the "Folder Options" window, use the dropdown menu for "Open File Explorer to" and choose your preferred option ("This PC," "Home," or "OneDrive").

4. Click "Apply," then "OK."

For Windows 10: Access "Folder Options" via the "File" tab > "Change folder and search options." Note: OneDrive integration may not be present in older Windows 10 versions.

Method 2: Setting Any Folder as Default (Windows 11 & 10)

This method involves modifying the Windows Registry. Proceed with caution, as incorrect registry edits can damage your system. It's recommended to back up your registry before making changes.

Steps:

1. Download a registry file (e.g., from a reputable source like ElevenForum.com) designed to change this setting. This file will contain the necessary registry keys.
2. Merge the downloaded registry file with your system's registry. You might need administrator privileges.
3. Open the Registry Editor (regedit.exe).
4. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Classes\CLSID\{52205fd8-5dfb-447d-801a-d0b52f2e83e1}\shell\OpenNewWindow\command

5. Double-click on "(Default)" and replace the value data within the quotes with the path to your desired folder (e.g., "C:\Users\[USERNAME]\Downloads").

6. Click "OK" and close the Registry Editor. To revert, use a registry backup, a repair file (if available), manually delete the entry, or change the path to a different folder.

Method 3: Taskbar Shortcut Modification

This method only affects File Explorer access via the taskbar shortcut.

Steps:

1. Locate the desired folder in File Explorer (don't open it).
2. Right-click, select "Send to" (may require "Show more options" in Windows 11), then "Desktop (create shortcut)."

3. Open the Taskbar shortcuts folder: Paste %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\User Pinned\TaskBar into File Explorer's address bar and press Enter.

4. Drag the new shortcut into this folder.
5. Remove the original File Explorer shortcut from the Taskbar and rename the new shortcut to "File Explorer." To undo, unpin and create a new File Explorer pin (e.g., by dragging "This PC" to the Taskbar).

Choose the method that best suits your technical comfort level and desired outcome. Remember to exercise caution when modifying the Windows Registry.

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