In the evolving landscape of Microsoft’s operating systems, one consistent tool has been the file navigation system. Originally dubbed “Windows Explorer” in Windows 7, this tool witnessed a rebranding by Microsoft, transitioning its name to “File Explorer,” beginning with Windows 8. The legacy of File Explorer continues into Windows 10 and even in the latest Windows 11. Users of Windows 10 can swiftly launch File Explorer using the familiar Windows + E keyboard shortcut. Yet, unlike previous iterations, this command now defaults to the “Quick Access” view rather than the traditional “This PC” view. While “Quick Access” offers a streamlined display of frequently visited folders and recently accessed files, some users may yearn for the classic overview presented by “This PC.” Not to worry – Windows 10 allows for customization in this regard. An added tidbit: besides the Windows + E shortcut, Windows 10 users can also initiate File Explorer through its dedicated icon on the taskbar. However, this, too, leads to “Quick Access” by default. This risewindows guide dives into the steps to adjust this setting, allowing users to launch directly into “This PC” instead of “Quick Access” on Windows 10.
How to Open “File Explorer” at “This PC” Instead of ” Quick Access” on Windows 10?
We need to follow the below-given steps to change the default “File Explorer” window to “This PC”:-
Step 1. First, press Windows + E keys from the keyboard together or open the File Explorer window, or by clicking on the icon at the taskbar.
Step 2. After that, click on the View from the File Explorer ribbon.
Step 3. Then, click on Options.
Step 4. The Folder Options window will open when you have completed the above steps. Switch to the General tab from the Folder Options window.
Step 5. From the General tab, select This PC in the drop-down menu “Open File Explorer to.“
Step 6. Click on the Apply button.
Step 7. Lastly, click the OK button to complete the process.
Now, whenever you open File Explorer by clicking on its icon from the Windows 10 Taskbar or by using the hotkey Windows + E, File Explorer opens at “This PC.” You can still access “Quick Access” by clicking on the left sidebar of File Explorer.
Conclusion
For users who prefer the traditional “This PC” view when opening File Explorer on Windows 10, the process of changing the default setting is straightforward. By following the simple steps outlined above, one can modify File Explorer to open directly to “This PC” rather than “Quick Access.” This offers a more classic overview of the system’s files and drives. Yet, even after making this change, “Quick Access” remains easily accessible from the left sidebar of File Explorer for those moments when it’s needed.
