How to Add and Remove Quick Access Folders on Navigation Pane of File Explorer in Windows 11
The Quick Access section in the Windows 11 File Explorer sidebar lets you pin folders so you can open them with a single click. Pinned folders stay visible on the left side of every folder window, even if you restart your computer.
You can add any folder to this list by right-clicking it and picking Pin to Quick Access. To clean up the sidebar, right-click any shortcut you no longer need and pick Unpin from Quick Access to remove it instantly.
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}" /fApplying these steps resolves the issue.
Summary
Quick Access in File Explorer displays frequently used folders for fast navigation. Removing Quick Access from the File Explorer navigation pane requires executing a command in Windows Terminal. This cleanup keeps the File Explorer interface tidy by eliminating unwanted shortcuts.
Where is quick access in File Explorer?
File Explorer ’s Home view houses Quick Access, which appears upon pressing the Win and E simultaneously. The left-hand sidebar also displays these entries.
Did 🪟 Windows 11 get rid of Quick Access?
Microsoft kept Quick Access in Windows 11, though its layout shifted slightly during the interface redesign. The File Explorer Home screen houses the main functionality for pinning favorite directories. Customizing visibility settings hides the sidebar elements without removing core capabilities.
How do I turn on quick access?
Open File Explorer, click the three-dot menu, and select 'Options' to configure Quick Access. Setting 'Open File Explorer to' to 'Home' within the General tab ensures the section remains visible.
How do I get my Quick Access folder back?
Missing Quick Access folders in the navigation pane require execution of a dedicated command within Windows Terminal. Open Terminal as an administrator and execute the relevant command to restore the sidebar shortcuts.
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Richard
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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.
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