How to Add and Remove Quick Access Folders on Navigation Pane of File Explorer in Windows 11
Quick Access in Windows 11 lets you add and remove folders directly from the File Explorer navigation pane, making it easier to reach your most important locations.
Quick Access appears in File Explorer’s Home view and shows folders you use often, plus any you’ve chosen to pin. The navigation pane, which is the list on the left side of File Explorer, can also show these pinned folders.
Removing a folder from the navigation pane hides it from that specific list without turning off Quick Access altogether. This helps keep your File Explorer tidy and shows only the folders you need right away.
To add or remove Quick Access folders from the File Explorer navigation pane, open Windows Terminal as an administrator. Paste the provided `reg add` command to add it back, or the `reg delete` command to remove it, then press Enter.
Add Quick Access Folders to Navigation Pane of File Explorer for All Users
This is the default setting.
reg add "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop\NameSpace\DelegateFolders{3936E9E4-D92C-4EEE-A85A-BC16D5EA0819}" /ve /d "CLSID_FrequentPlacesFolder" /fRemove Quick Access Folders from Navigation Pane of File Explorer for All Users
reg delete "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Desktop\NameSpace\DelegateFolders{3936E9E4-D92C-4EEE-A85A-BC16D5EA0819}" /fThat should do it!
Summary
Quick Access in File Explorer displays frequently used folders for fast access. Users can remove Quick Access from the File Explorer navigation pane by using a command in Windows Terminal. This process helps keep the File Explorer interface tidy by removing unwanted Quick Access folder shortcuts.
Where is quick access in File Explorer?
Quick Access in File Explorer shows up in the Home view, which you can open by pressing the Windows key and E. You’ll also see it listed on the left side in the navigation pane.
Did 🪟 Windows 11 get rid of Quick Access?
No, Windows 11 still has Quick Access, it’s just moved a bit. You’ll find it mainly in the Home screen of File Explorer, where you can pin your favorite folders. While you can change how it looks or hide it from the side list, the main feature is still there.
How do I turn on quick access?
Open File Explorer, click the three dots menu, and select ‘Options’ to turn on Quick Access. Make sure ‘Open File Explorer to’ is set to ‘Home’ in the General tab to see it.
How do I get my Quick Access folder back?
If your Quick Access folder is missing from the navigation pane, you can get it back using a command in Windows Terminal. Open Terminal as an administrator and type the specific command to restore it.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!