How to Add or Remove “Explore background” Desktop Context Menu in Windows 11
The “Explore background” option in the Windows 11 desktop context menu lets you easily find the folder where Windows Spotlight images are saved.
You can add or remove this handy shortcut by changing settings in the Windows Registry, which is a system setting database for Windows.
This feature is especially useful if you like using Windows Spotlight and want quick access to the current background image, which might be stored in a path like 📁C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Packages\Microsoft.Windows.ContentDeliveryManager_cw5n1h2txyewy\LocalState\Assets.
Making these changes involves editing specific registry keys, and you will likely need administrator rights to do so safely.
Modify the Windows Registry to add or remove the “Explore background” option. Open Windows Terminal and use `reg delete` or `reg add` commands targeting specific registry keys under `🗝️HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareClassesDesktopBackgroundshell.SpotlightLearnMore` or `🗝️HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTDesktopBackgroundShell.SpotlightLearnMore`.
Why This Matters
Windows 11 now includes an “Explore background” option in the desktop right-click menu that shows you information about your current wallpaper, especially for Windows Spotlight images.
What Happens When Done
After following these steps, the “Explore background” option will either appear or disappear from your right-click desktop menu, depending on which option you choose.
Option 1Current User Only
To remove the "Explore background" option just for your account in Windows 11, follow these steps. This uses a command in the Windows Terminal. This is the default.
This is the default.
- Open the Windows Terminal app.
- Run this command:
reg delete "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\DesktopBackground\shell.SpotlightLearnMore" /v ProgrammaticAccessOnly /f
- Open the Windows Terminal app.
- Run this command:
reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\DesktopBackground\shell.SpotlightLearnMore" /v ProgrammaticAccessOnly /t REG_SZ /d "" /f
Option 2All Users on Your Computer
Adding the "Explore background" option to the desktop context menu for everyone on your Windows 11 PC requires opening Windows Terminal as an administrator. Then, you'll run a specific command. This is the default setting.
Add "Explore background" Desktop context menu for All Users
This is the default.
Open the Windows Terminal app as an administrator. Run this command:
reg add "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell.SpotlightLearnMore" /v CommandStateSync /t REG_SZ /d "" /f
reg add "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell.SpotlightLearnMore" /v ExplorerCommandHandler /t REG_SZ /d "{5C6B744C-4CD1-5EA7-BDC6-0E6679A956BF}" /f
reg add "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell.SpotlightLearnMore" /v Position /t REG_SZ /d "Bottom" /f
- Open Registry Editor by typing
regedit.exein your search bar. - In the left pane, navigate to this location:
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell\.SpotlightLearnMore - Important: You need admin privileges to change the owner and permissions. Right-click on the
.SpotlightLearnMorekey and select Properties. - Click the Owner tab. Click Edit, then change the owner to Administrators. Click OK.
- Go to the Permissions tab. Select Administrators and check the box for "Full Control". Click OK.
- You can now close Registry Editor.
You can then delete the registry key.SpotlightLearnMore. A restart of Explorer or your PC might be needed to see the changes.
reg delete "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\DesktopBackground\Shell.SpotlightLearnMore" /f
Summary
The "Explore background" option can be added or removed from your Windows 11 desktop context menu depending on whether you want the change for just yourself or for all users.
What is the Explorer context menu?
The Explorer context menu is the list of choices that pops up when you right-click on a file, folder, or your desktop in Windows.
How do I get the old Explorer context menu in 🪟 Windows 11?
The old, full Explorer context menu can be restored in Windows 11 by making a specific change in the Windows Registry or by using a third-party tool.
How do I edit the Explorer context menu?
The Explorer context menu can be edited by changing settings in the Windows Registry or by using programs designed for this purpose.
How do I go back to the old context menu?
To revert to the old context menu in Windows, run a specific command in the Command Prompt after opening it as an administrator.
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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.
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