open file explorer to this pc instead of quick access in windows 10?

When you start Windows 10 and open File Explorer, it may automatically open to the Quick Access section. This behavior is designed for user convenience and quick access to recent and frequently used files and folders. Windows 10’s default setting aims to help you find your important items faster without navigating through multiple directories. Since Quick Access provides customization options like pinning favorite folders, it offers a personalized and efficient starting point. If Quick Access doesn’t match your workflow, you can change the default opening location to a different folder such as This PC, which can enhance productivity. To do so, you can modify the shortcut properties, adjust system registry settings, or set your startup folder via File Explorer options. Overall, Windows 10 opens Quick Access by default because it simplifies daily workflows and streamlines file management for most users.

Benefits of Setting ‘This PC’ as Default Folder

When you set ‘This PC’ as the default folder in File Explorer, it simplifies your file management experience. This change allows you to access your drives and important folders more quickly and conveniently. Whether frequently working with documents, pictures, or other files, starting at ‘This PC’ can save time and reduce frustration.

One major advantage is easier access to all your storage locations. Instead of navigating through multiple folders or nested directories, you start right at your disk drives like C:, external devices, or network locations. This is especially useful if you move files between drives or manage large data sets.

Additionally, setting ‘This PC’ as your default improves productivity by minimizing the steps needed to reach your files. Opening File Explorer will show you your disk drives, removable devices, and network shares immediately. This setup benefits users who regularly work with multiple drives, external storage, or network locations.

Further, it enhances organization by allowing quick access to main storage areas, reducing the chances of saving in unwanted locations. It simplifies backups and scans, as you can readily access all storage locations from a single starting point.

For shared computers or multiple user accounts, setting ‘This PC’ as default creates a consistent, predictable starting view. If you often need to access external drives or network shares, this setting ensures those options are available instantly, which is particularly helpful for file transfers or backups.

Overall, the benefits include faster navigation, better organization, and increased efficiency, making file and drive management smoother whether for personal or professional purposes.

Step-by-Step: Change Default Folder in File Explorer

If File Explorer always opens in a specific folder like Documents or Downloads, and you prefer it to start in ‘This PC,’ you can change this setting via shortcut properties or system configurations.

1. Method 1: Using the Shortcut Properties

   This is the simplest method. Locate the File Explorer shortcut on your desktop, taskbar, or Start menu. Right-click on it and choose Properties.

   In the Properties window, go to the Shortcut tab. The Target field typically shows C:\Windows\explorer.exe. Add a space after the quotes and type /e, /root,:: followed by shell:MyComputerFolder. For example:

   "C:\Windows\explorer.exe" /e,::1

   This command opens ‘This PC.’

   Click Apply and then OK. Using this shortcut will open File Explorer starting in ‘This PC.’

2. Method 2: Change Folder Views via Registry Editor

   This method sets ‘This PC’ as default system-wide but requires caution. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter. Navigate to:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced

   Right-click inside the right pane, choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it LaunchTo. Double-click to set its value to 1. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer. Now, File Explorer will open to ‘This PC’ by default for all users.

3. Method 3: Using Quick Access

   If you mainly want quick access to ‘This PC,’ pin it to Quick Access:

   1. Open File Explorer and navigate to ‘This PC.’
   2. Right-click on ‘This PC’ and select Pin to Quick Access.

   Next time you launch File Explorer, it will open to Quick Access, containing ‘This PC.’

Using Shortcut Keys to Open ‘This PC’ Quickly

Speed up access to ‘This PC’ with keyboard shortcuts or custom shortcuts. These methods eliminate the need to navigate menus or change default settings repeatedly.

1. Windows Key + E
   This shortcut opens File Explorer instantly, usually defaulting to Quick Access. To access ‘This PC,’ navigate within the window or modify the shortcut as explained below.
2. Create a Desktop Shortcut with a Keyboard Shortcut
   To create a direct shortcut for ‘This PC’ with a custom key combination:
   • Right-click on your desktop > New > Shortcut.
   • Type explorer shell:MyComputerFolder in the location field, then click Next.
   • Name it (e.g., ‘Open This PC’) and click Finish.
   • Right-click the new shortcut, select Properties.
   • In the Shortcut key box, click and press your preferred key combination, such as Ctrl + Alt + T.
   • Click OK. Now, pressing that combination opens ‘This PC’ directly.
3. Run Command
   Press Windows + R, type explorer shell:MyComputerFolder, and press Enter. This instantly opens ‘This PC’ in File Explorer.
4. Pin ‘This PC’ to Quick Access
   Open File Explorer with Windows + E. Right-click ‘This PC’ in the left pane and choose Pin to Quick Access. This provides quick mouse access without altering system defaults.

Using these keyboard and mouse shortcuts allows instant access to ‘This PC,’ streamlining your workflow without fiddling with menus or system settings.

How to Configure Windows 10 Settings for Startup Folder

If you want Windows 10 to automatically open ‘This PC’ when launching File Explorer, you need to adjust default settings. Usually, it opens to Quick Access or recent folders, but you can change this to improve your workflow.

1. Open File Explorer. Click the folder icon on your taskbar or press Windows + E.
2. Access Folder Options. In the ribbon, click ‘View’, then click ‘Options’ on the right. In the ‘Folder Options’ window that appears, stay on the General tab.
3. Change Startup Folder. Under ‘Open File Explorer to:’, select This PC.
4. Apply and Confirm. Click ‘Apply’, then ‘OK’. When opening a new File Explorer instance, it should now default to ‘This PC.’

You can also create a dedicated shortcut that opens directly in ‘This PC’ by right-clicking on the desktop, choosing New > Shortcut, entering explorer.exe shell:MyComputerFolder, naming it, and using this shortcut instead of the default Explorer icon.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Default Folder

Sometimes, changing the default folder can cause unexpected problems such as the folder not changing, reverting, or showing errors. Here are troubleshooting tips:

1. Verify Your Change

   Ensure you set the default folder correctly through the shortcut properties or registry setting. Restart File Explorer or your PC to see if it holds. If not, try reapplying the change.

2. Check Permissions

   Permissions issues can prevent folder changes. Ensure your user account has full control rights. Access folder properties > Security tab to verify permissions.

3. Correct Path Format

   Double-check you entered the path correctly, avoiding extra spaces or typos. Use the full path, such as C:\Users\YourName\Documents.

4. Reset Folder Preferences

   Via File Explorer > View > Options > Reset Folders, restoring default settings can resolve conflicts.

5. Disable Conflicting Software

   Some third-party tools might override folder settings. Boot into Safe Mode or temporarily disable such software to test if the issue persists.

6. Update Windows

   Make sure your system is fully updated. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.

7. Check System Files

   Run the System File Checker: open Command Prompt as administrator, type sfc /scannow, and follow prompts.

If problems continue after these steps, consult Windows support or online forums for further assistance. Proper configuration ensures optimized file management and system stability.

FAQs: Customizing File Explorer for Better Navigation

Customizing your File Explorer settings can enhance your workflow and make navigation easier. Below are answers to common questions:

1. How do I change the default folder that opens when I launch File Explorer?

Right-click the File Explorer icon, select Properties. In the Shortcut tab, modify the Target path to include the folder you want. For example, add C:\Users\YourName\Documents. Click Apply and OK.

2. Can I add or remove folders from Quick Access?

Yes. To pin a folder, open it, right-click, and select Pin to Quick access. To remove, right-click in Quick Access and choose Unpin from Quick access. You can also drag folders into or out of Quick Access for customization.

3. How do I customize the navigation pane?

Click the View tab, then choose Navigation pane options. Enable or disable items like ‘Show libraries’ or ‘Show all folders’ to organize what appears in the pane.

4. Can I change icon sizes and view options?

Yes. In the View tab, select different layouts like Large icons, Details, or List. For more customization, go to Folder Options and adjust view settings.

5. What mistakes should I avoid when customizing File Explorer?

Avoid modifying or deleting system folders, unpinning important directories, or changing settings without understanding their impact. Always back up settings before making major changes.