In Windows 7 and 8, File Explorer opens by default to the ‘Computer’ or ‘This PC’ view giving users an overview of their home folders, local drives, and network locations. This view is still available in Windows 10 but the File Explorer has a new “Quick Access” view. Whenever you open a file browser window, you’ll see a list of “frequent folders” and recent files. This list of folders also replaces the old favorite folders list.
The Quick Access view is similar to the ‘All My Files’ option in Mac OS X. It shows users their frequently accessed folders and documents. Microsoft is trying to be smart here, automatically suggesting lists of folders and files you frequently use so you can access them more quickly. I prefer the This PC view since I tend to keep my files organized enough to not need Quick Access apart from the Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos, and Downloads folders are also present in the This PC view.
Configure Windows 10 File Explorer
Thankfully, Microsoft has included an option that lets Windows 10 users choose which view File Explorer will use by default. Here’s how to configure File Explorer to open in the This PC view in Windows 10.
- In Windows 10, open a new File Explorer window and click the View tab from the ribbon toolbar.
- In the View tab, find and click Options, listed by default on the far right side of the ribbon.
- In the Folder Options window, ensure you’re on the General tab and then find the drop-down box labeled Open File Explorer To. Click the drop-down menu and select This PC. Click OK to save your changes and close the window.
You can also choose to uncheck Show recently used files in Quick Access. This will prevent the main Quick Access view from displaying your recent files.
You could have File Explorer automatically open to a Quick Access view. But a Quick Access view that shows frequently accessed folders. Or you can disable both options and File Explorer will automatically open to a Quick Access view that displays your pinned favorite folders.
