Windows 11 offers a sleek and modern user interface, but sometimes you may want to customize it for easier navigation. One common preference is adding or removing “This PC” in File Explorer. Whether you want quick access to system drives and folders or prefer a cleaner look, there are simple methods to achieve this.
Here are three quick ways to show or hide “This PC” in File Explorer on Windows 11.
1. Use File Explorer Options
Windows provides a built-in setting to control the default view when opening File Explorer. You can modify this option to show or hide “This PC.”
- Open File Explorer (Press Win + E).
- Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select Options.
- In the Folder Options window, find the setting that says “Open File Explorer to”.
- Select This PC from the dropdown menu if you want to show it, or choose Home to hide it.
- Click OK to apply the changes.
After making this adjustment, launching File Explorer will open to This PC (or Home, if changed), instantly showing or hiding system drives and folders.
2. Modify the Navigation Pane in File Explorer
If you want to remove or add “This PC” specifically from the left-hand panel in File Explorer, follow these steps:
- Open File Explorer.
- Right-click any blank space in the navigation pane (left side).
- Click Show all folders to ensure visibility of system locations like “This PC.”
- If you want to remove “This PC,” uncheck “Show all folders.”
This method gives you a cleaner sidebar or a more detailed view depending on your preference.
3. Use the Windows Registry Editor
For users who prefer a more advanced method, modifying the Windows Registry allows full control of “This PC” visibility. Be cautious when editing the registry, as incorrect changes may affect system functionality.
- Press Win + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to the following location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace
- To hide “This PC,” find its key and delete it. To restore it, add a new
{Namespace GUID}corresponding to “This PC.” - Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer to apply changes.
Conclusion
Showing or hiding “This PC” in Windows 11 File Explorer is easy with these three methods. Whether using File Explorer options, modifying the navigation pane, or tweaking the registry, you can tailor File Explorer to best suit your workflow.
Do you prefer quick access to system drives or a cleaner navigation pane? Try the options above and customize your Windows experience today!
