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The thread discusses how to create a custom top-level folder in Windows File Explorer, specifically for a synced Google Drive folder. The original poster asks for methods, including registry edits, to achieve this. Neemobeer explains that Windows doesn't natively support custom top-level folders in Explorer, but provides guidance on controlling folder visibility via registry modifications, suggesting that creating a new custom folder would require generating a new GUID with the Windows SDK and modifying registry entries accordingly. The overall sentiment indicates that while possible through advanced registry edits and SDK use, there is no simple, built-in way to do this.
someuser123

someuser123

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Joined
Sep 7, 2018
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1
Thread Author #1
Hi all,

I am trying to figure out how to create a custom top-level folder in the Windows file explorer, specifically my synced Google Drive folder. How can I do this? I'm familiar with working inside of regedit if necessary, but if there is a simpler solution it's preferred. Please see an image for reference here:
 

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Neemobeer
I was curious and was able to determine what controls them. The GUIDs located in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions control those directories. One's that are visible with in the "ThisPC" sub menu will have a sub key called PropertyBag and in there a string value called ThisPCPolicy. Set to Show it will be visible. Set it to Hide and restart explorer and it will be hidden. My theory is that you would need to grab the windows SDK to generate a GUID for your custom entry and then create the appropriate sub key and other values
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Neemobeer

Neemobeer

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#2
Considering there's no way to do it in explorer, it's unlikely there is a way. If there is a way you'd need to dig through the registry, or just pin them to quick access...
 

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Neemobeer

Neemobeer

Windows Forum Team
Staff member
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Jul 4, 2015
Messages
8,995
#3
I was curious and was able to determine what controls them. The GUIDs located in HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions control those directories. One's that are visible with in the "ThisPC" sub menu will have a sub key called PropertyBag and in there a string value called ThisPCPolicy. Set to Show it will be visible. Set it to Hide and restart explorer and it will be hidden. My theory is that you would need to grab the windows SDK to generate a GUID for your custom entry and then create the appropriate sub key and other values
 

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