A staple in the Windows operating system, the tool known as “Windows Explorer” in Windows 7 underwent a rebranding in subsequent versions. Microsoft transitioned the name to “File Explorer” from Windows 8 onwards, and the familiar “My Computer” was aptly renamed to “This PC.” The shortcuts have remained quite straightforward – pressing Windows + E keys simultaneously launches File Explorer in Windows 11. However, one noticeable change is its default landing page. Instead of directly opening to “This PC” which showcases drives, partitions, and standard folders, Windows 11, by default, routes you to “Quick Access.” While Quick Access offers convenience by displaying frequently accessed folders and recent files, along with default folders such as Desktop, Documents, Downloads, and more, some users may prefer the traditional view of “This PC.”
If you’re among those who find themselves often navigating away from Quick Access to “This PC,” you might be looking for a way to make “This PC” your default view. Thankfully, Windows 11 offers the flexibility to modify this default behavior. In this risewindows article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on configuring File Explorer in Windows 11 to open directly to “This PC” rather than “Quick Access.”
How to Open “File Explorer” at “This PC” Instead of ” Quick Access” on Windows 11?
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 by clicking on the icon at the taskbar.
Step 2. After that, click on the See more from the File Explorer window.
Step 3. Then, click on the Options from the drop-down menu.
Step 4. The Folder Options window will open when you have completed the above steps.
Step 5. Now, 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 11 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 the “This PC” window.
That’s it!!!
Also read: How to Open “File Explorer” at “This PC” Instead of ” Quick Access” on Windows 10?
Conclusion
Changing the default landing page of File Explorer in Windows 11 to “This PC” is a straightforward process that can enhance the user experience for those who prefer a more traditional view. By simply adjusting the options within File Explorer, users can bypass the “Quick Access” view and directly access “This PC,” providing quicker navigation to drives, partitions, and standard folders. Whether you’re an old-school Windows user or just someone who appreciates efficient navigation, this simple tweak can make a world of difference in your day-to-day computer interactions.
