How to Enable or Disable Inline AutoComplete in Windows 11

File Explorer File Explorer is the tool you use to see all the files and folders on your computer. It has a helpful feature called inline AutoComplete. This feature guesses what folder or file you are trying to find by looking at your history as you type in the address bar.

Why use this? It saves time by letting you finish your search quickly. Just press the Enter or right-arrow key to accept the suggestion.

What happens when done? Your File Explorer will start predicting your paths, making it faster to jump between folders.

Method 1: Using Internet Options

You can change this setting through the Control Panel.

1. Open the Control Panel app.
2. Go to Control Panel, then Network and Internet.
3. Click on Internet Options.

4. Click the Advanced tab in the window that pops up.
5. Find Use inline AutoComplete in the list.
6. Check the box to turn it on, or uncheck it to turn it off.

7. Click OK to save your changes.

Method 2: Using the Registry Editor

Note: This method requires admin privileges. Be careful when editing the registry.

You can also use the Windows Registry editor to change this setting.

1. Open the Registry Editor.
2. Go to this path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\AutoComplete
3. If you do not see a folder named AutoComplete, right-click the Explorer folder, select New, and create a Key named AutoComplete.

4. Right-click in the empty space on the right side. Select New, then String Value.
5. Name this new item Append Completion.
6. Double-click Append Completion.
7. In the Value data box, type yes to turn it on, or no to turn it off.

Restart your computer to make sure the changes work correctly.

Summary

Inline AutoComplete in File Explorer helps you navigate your computer faster by predicting your searches. You can enable or disable this feature through your Internet Options settings or by editing the Windows Registry. Choosing the right setting for your needs can make your daily computer tasks much more efficient.