When you open File Explorer in Windows 11, it usually opens to the Home page (formerly known as Quick Access in older versions of Windows). While this view provides quick access to recent files and frequently used folders, many users prefer to open File Explorer directly to This PC to view their drives, storage devices, and main folders. Opening File Explorer to This PC can make it easier to manage files, access disk drives, and navigate through your computer without clicking through extra menus. Windows 11 includes a built-in setting that lets you change the default File Explorer start location in just a few steps. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make File Explorer open to This PC instead of Home in Windows 11, along with how to restore the default setting if you change your mind.
Why Does File Explorer Open to Home by Default?
Windows 11 opens File Explorer to the Home page by default because it is designed to provide faster access to frequently used files and folders. The Home section displays recent files, favorite folders, and recommended locations, which can be helpful for everyday file access.
However, not everyone prefers this layout. Users who regularly manage documents, external drives, or system folders may find the Home page less convenient because it requires an extra click to reach their storage locations.
Changing the default startup location to This PC gives you a more traditional File Explorer experience. Instead of seeing recent activity, you can immediately access your drives, folders, and connected devices when opening File Explorer.
How to Make File Explorer Open to This PC in Windows 11
Windows 11 lets you change the default File Explorer startup location in Folder Options. Once changed, every time you open File Explorer, it will take you directly to This PC instead of the Home page.
- Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
- Click the three-dot (See more) button on the toolbar.
- Select Options. In the Folder Options window, open the General tab.
- Click the drop-down menu next to Open File Explorer to.
- Select This PC. Click Apply, then select OK.
Now, close and reopen File Explorer. It will open directly to This PC, showing your drives, folders, and connected devices.
Note: This setting only changes the default opening location. It does not remove the Home page or disable features such as recent files and favorite folders.
How to Restore File Explorer to Open Home Again
If you later decide that you prefer the default Windows 11 File Explorer experience, you can easily change the startup location back to Home. This will restore quick access to recent files, favorite folders, and recommended locations whenever you open File Explorer.
Follow these steps:
- Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
- Click the three-dot (See more) menu on the toolbar and Select Options.
- Under the General tab, find Open File Explorer to.
- Select Home from the drop-down menu.
- Click Apply, then select OK.
The next time you launch File Explorer, it will open to the Home page again.
Tip: You can switch between Home and This PC anytime using the same setting. Choose the option that best matches how you organize and access your files.
Frequently Asked Questions
Windows 11 opens File Explorer to the Home page by default because it provides quick access to recent files, favorite folders, and recommended locations. You can change this behavior anytime by selecting This PC from Folder Options.
Yes. Windows 11 includes a built-in option that allows you to change the default File Explorer startup location. Open Folder Options, select This PC from the Open File Explorer to menu, and save the changes.
The Home page focuses on recently used files, favorites, and quick access locations, while This PC shows your computer’s drives, folders, and connected storage devices.
No. Changing the startup location only changes where File Explorer opens. It does not move, delete, or modify any files or folders on your computer.
Yes. You can restore the default behavior at any time by going back to Folder Options and selecting Home from the Open File Explorer to drop-down menu.
