How to Change File Explorer Layout in Windows 11
You change the File Explorer layout in Windows 11 to personalize how you view and manage your files and folders.
File Explorer’s layout refers to the visual arrangement and information displayed for items within a folder, such as large icons, detailed lists, or small thumbnails.
For example, you might switch to “Large icons” view for a folder containing many images, allowing you to quickly preview them. Alternatively, “Details” view shows crucial information like file size, type, and modification date, which is perfect for organizing documents.
Windows 11 remembers your chosen layout for each specific folder, so your preferred view automatically reappears when you open it again.
Comparison of File Explorer Layouts
| Layout Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Extra Large/Large Icons | Photos and Videos |
| Medium Icons | General file browsing |
| List | Quick scanning of many files |
| Details | Sorting by date, size, or type |
| Tiles | Seeing file info with larger icons |
| Content | Detailed file metadata view |
Using the View Menu and Apply to Folders
To make a specific layout the default for all folders of a certain type, use the Apply to Folders feature.
- Open File Explorer and set your preferred view (e.g., Details).
- Click the View menu in the top command bar.
- Select Options at the bottom of the menu.
- In the Folder Options window, click the View tab.
- Click Apply to Folders.
Pro Tip: This feature forces Windows to adopt your current view settings for all folders that share the same template, effectively solving issues where Windows resets your view preferences.
Troubleshooting: Why Windows Resets Folder Views
Windows sometimes forgets your settings because the BagMRU registry keys have reached their limit. To fix this, you may need to reset your folder views.
How to Reset Folder Views
- Open Folder Options via the View menu.
- Go to the View tab.
- Click Reset Folders.
Advanced Customization via Registry Editor
Note: This step requires admin privileges. You can manually clear view settings by editing the registry.
1. Press WIN + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\Local Settings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell
3. Delete the BagMRU and Bags keys to reset all custom folder views to the system default.
Summary
Customizing your File Explorer layout is a simple way to improve your file management efficiency. By using the View menu, keyboard shortcuts, or the Apply to Folders feature, you can ensure your folders always look exactly how you want them. If you encounter issues with settings not saving, use the Reset Folders tool or the registry steps provided to clear out old configurations.
Why does 🪟 Windows 11 keep resetting my folder view?
Windows 11 often resets views when the internal cache for folder settings, known as BagMRU, becomes corrupted or full. Resetting your folder views through the Folder Options menu or clearing the registry cache can resolve these persistent view persistence issues and restore your custom layout preferences.
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!