How to Add or Remove Favorites in Windows 11 File Explorer

This article explains how to add or remove files to your Favorites in File Explorer on Windows 11.

Windows File Explorer is a file manager application included in the Microsoft Windows operating system. It has a simple interface that lets you view, copy, move, delete, and rename files and folders. You can organize them into different sections to keep things tidy.

With File Explorer, you can use the Undo and Redo commands, enable or disable File Explorer folder options, show or hide the details pane, how or hide the Gallery, and more.

Why Use the Favorites Feature?

A newer feature in File Explorer is the ability to add or remove files from your Favorites section. This is helpful because it lets you quickly find files without navigating through multiple folders and searching for them.

Adding files to your Favorites can save you time. You can access them instantly instead of digging through folders. This is especially useful if you work with many files or use the same files repeatedly.

Removing files you no longer need keeps your Favorites list clean and organized. You won’t have clutter.

How to Add Files to Favorites in File Explorer

Step 1: Open File Explorer

First, open File Explorer or press the keyboard shortcut Win + E.

Step 2: Find the File You Want

Browse and select the file you use frequently. This is the file you want to add to your Favorites.

Step 3: Add the File Using the Menu

Click the File Explorer ‘More options’ button (three dots) on the command bar. Then select ‘Add to Favorites’ from the menu that appears.

Alternative Method: Right-Click to Add

You can also right-click the file and select ‘Add to Favorites’ directly.

Step 4: View Your Favorites

Files you add will now appear in File Explorer Home under the Favorites section. You can access them anytime from there.

How to Remove Files from Favorites in File Explorer

Step 1: Open File Explorer Home

Open File Explorer and go to the Home section.

Step 2: Find the File in Favorites

Expand the ‘Favorites’ section. Look for the file you no longer need.

Step 3: Remove the File

Right-click the file and click ‘Remove from Favorites.’

That’s all there is to it!

Summary

• The Favorites feature in File Explorer helps you quickly access files you use often
• You can add files using the ‘More options’ menu or by right-clicking
• Your favorite files appear in File Explorer Home under the Favorites section
• Remove files from Favorites by right-clicking and selecting ‘Remove from Favorites’
• Keeping your Favorites list organized saves you time and reduces clutter
• This feature is especially useful if you work with many files or access the same files repeatedly

Frequently Asked Questions