How to Restore File Explorer Windows at Logon
You can restore all your open File Explorer windows automatically when you next log into Windows.
This feature allows Windows to remember every File Explorer tab and window you had open before signing out or restarting. When you log back in, all those windows reappear exactly as you left them, saving you time and effort.
You’ll find this “Restore previous folder windows at logon” setting within File Explorer’s Folder Options. This useful functionality is available in both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Access File Explorer Folder Options, go to the View tab, and check the “Restore previous folder windows at logon” box. This setting automatically reopens your File Explorer windows when you sign back into Windows.
Why Use This Feature?
This feature saves you time. You won’t have to reopen all your folders after logging in. Everything will be exactly where you left it.
What Happens When You Enable It?
When you enable this setting, Windows will remember your open File Explorer windows and tabs. They’ll automatically reopen the next time you log in.
Method 1Use File Explorer Settings
You can easily restore previous folder windows when you log on by using File Explorer’s settings.
- Open File Explorer Folder Options.
- Click on the View tab at the top.
- Look for the box next to “Restore previous folder windows at logon”.
- Check the box to turn the feature on. Uncheck it to turn it off.
- Click OK to save your changes.
Method 2Use Windows Registry Editor
If you’re comfortable with more technical steps, you can restore previous folder windows at logon by changing a setting in the Windows Registry Editor.
- Open the Windows Registry (search for “regedit” in Windows).
- Navigate to this folder path:
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced - Right-click on Advanced and choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the new entry
PersistBrowsers. - Double-click
PersistBrowsersand set the value to1to turn on the feature. Use0to turn it off.
You may need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Summary
Restoring previous folder windows when you sign in is simple, with two main ways to do it: using File Explorer’s settings or the Windows Registry Editor.
- Easy method: Use the File Explorer Folder Options menu to enable or disable the feature in just a few clicks.
- Advanced method: Edit the Windows Registry to control this setting. Remember to back up your registry first.
- Always create a System Restore point before making registry changes for extra safety.
- Your computer may need to restart for changes to work properly.
- This feature helps you work faster by remembering where you left off.
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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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