Microsoft has designed Windows 11 with a generic configuration, attempting to cater to the broad spectrum of users. However, user needs and preferences can significantly differ. Fortunately, Windows 11 offers a range of customization options that enhance the functionality of the File Explorer. In this article, we’ll explore nine practical tricks that allow you to tailor your File Explorer experience according to your specific requirements.
1. Change the Default Folder
By default, File Explorer opens to the Home folder, displaying Quick Access, Favorites, and Recent Items. If you prefer it to open to a more relevant location, such as "This PC," you can change this setting easily:- Open File Explorer.
- Click on the three dots in the top bar and select Options.
- Under Open File Explorer to, choose This PC.
- Click Apply.
2. Delete the "Recent Items" Folder
The Recent Items folder can serve a practical purpose, but it also raises privacy concerns by displaying files you've accessed recently. To disable this feature:- While still in Folder Options, navigate to the Privacy section.
- Uncheck Show recently used files.
- Click Apply.
3. Stop Showing Frequently Used Folders
Just as with recent items, Explorer displays frequently used folders which can also be a privacy concern. To stop this from being shown, you can do the following:- In the Folder Options, find the same Privacy section.
- Uncheck Frequently used folders.
- Click Apply.
4. Disable or Enable the Navigation, Preview, and Details Panels
Windows 11 comes with several panes in File Explorer that can help you navigate your files efficiently. Here is how you can enable or disable them as per your needs:- Open File Explorer.
- Go to the View menu in the top bar.
- You can toggle the Navigation Panel, Preview Panel, and Details Pane from there. These panes can enhance your workflow, allowing quick previews or details about files without needing to open them.
5. Open Files and Folders in One Click
File Explorer defaults to needing a double-click to open folders or files, but you can streamline your experience by switching to a single-click option:- Open File Explorer, click on the three dots, and go to Options.
- In the Actions when clicking on an item section, select Single-click to open an item. This may enhance speed and reduce frustration for users often interacting with numerous files.
6. Select Items Using Checkbox
Selecting multiple files in File Explorer typically requires holding down the Ctrl key. However, you can activate checkboxes to simplify selection:- Open File Explorer, head to View, hover over Show, and then select Item check boxes. You will now see a checkbox next to each item for easier selection, accommodating bulk actions with less hassle.
7. Customize Folder Icons
Standard folder icons can become monotonous. Windows 11 offers numerous icons to customize your folders, making it easier to identify them:- Right-click the folder you want to customize, choose Properties, and navigate to the Customize tab.
- Click Change Icon and browse through the available icons. Apply your choice to distinguish folders better. This can be particularly helpful for users managing various projects or types of files.
8. Pin or Unpin Quick Access Folders
For those who frequently access certain folders, pinning them to Quick Access can save time:- Right-click on the folder and select Pin to Quick Access. To remove it, right-click again and choose Unpin from Quick Access. This feature can significantly accelerate workflow by providing one-click access to the most important locations.
9. Activate Dark Mode in File Explorer
While many users enjoy the aesthetics of dark mode, some complain that File Explorer doesn't consistently adhere to these settings. You can switch to dark mode with these steps:- Right-click the Start button and select Settings.
- Go to Personalization, then click on Colors.
In the Choose your mode dropdown, select Custom, and ensure the default app mode is set to Dark. By adopting these settings, you can enhance contrast and reduce strain on the eyes, especially in low-light conditions.
