Customize Windows 11 file explorer folders under This PC

General
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Windows 11 changed how File Explorer displays user folders under ‘This PC’, removing several default folders from direct view. Whether you want to restore these folders or customize which ones appear, there are several ways to modify this section to match your preferences.

Method 1: Using registry files for quick customization

This method offers the fastest way to add or remove multiple folders at once through simple registry modifications.

  1. Create a new text file and paste the following registry code to add all library folders:
Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

; 3D Objects
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{0DB7E03F-FC29-4DC6-9020-FF41B59E513A}]

; Desktop
[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641}]
"HideIfEnabled"=-

[Additional registry entries as shown in original code block]
  1. Save the file with .reg extension (example: AddFolders.reg)

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  1. Double-click the saved file and confirm the registry merge

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  1. Restart File Explorer to see the changes

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Adding single folders

For individual folder additions, use specific registry entries. For example, to add Documents:

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{d3162b92-9365-467a-956b-92703aca08af}]
"HideIfEnabled"=-

Method 2: Direct registry modification

This method provides more control over individual folder settings.

  1. Open Registry Editor (Win+R, type regedit)

  2. Navigate to the folder’s registry path:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{GUID}\PropertyBag
  1. Modify ThisPCPolicy value:
  • Set to “Show” to display folder
  • Set to “Hide” to remove folder

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Method 3: Using Winaero Tweaker

This tool provides a user-friendly interface for customization.

  1. Download and install Winaero Tweaker

  2. Navigate to File Explorer > Customize This PC Folders

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  1. Add custom folders or remove existing ones using the interface

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