How to Restore File Explorer Windows When You Log In
Reopening your last active File Explorer windows automatically when you sign into Windows 11 saves you time by loading your folders the moment you boot up your PC. This feature remembers which folders stayed open so you never have to hunt down the same drives and directories twice.
Turning on one simple toggle inside your folder settings handles this change. You can set up your computer to pick up right where you left off in just a few clicks.
Enable “Restore previous folder windows at logon” in File Explorer Options. Open File Explorer , click More, then Options. Navigate to the View tab, check the box for the setting, and click OK.
What is File Explorer?
File Explorer is the application on your Windows PC responsible for finding, opening, copying, moving, and organizing your files and folders. Consider it a digital filing cabinet you can navigate.
Why Use “Restore previous folder windows at logon”?
Activating this specific preference tells Windows to track every open folder session. The next time you sign in to your computer, those same folders will open automatically. This configuration saves time during daily workflows.
How to Turn On or Off “Restore previous folder windows at logon”
Follow these steps:
Open File Explorer Options:
- Click the Start button (Windows icon) or press the Win.
- Type File Explorer Options and press Enter.
- Or, open File Explorer (folder icon on your taskbar ). Click the three dots (More) in the top menu, then choose Options.
Change the Setting:
- In the new window, click the View tab at the top.
- Look for the checkbox labeled “Restore previous folder windows at logon”.
- Check the box to turn it ON. Uncheck it to turn it OFF.
- Click OK to save your changes.
How to Use the Registry Editor to Change This Setting (Advanced)
For deeper control over your system settings, use the Registry Editor (a centralized database for Windows configuration) to restore File Explorer windows automatically. This advanced method provides greater command over how folders load. Before proceeding, confirm active administrator privileges on your computer and proceed with caution.
⚠️ Admin Privileges Required
Here's how:
- Open the Registry Editor by typing
regeditin the Start menu search and pressing Enter. - Navigate to this folder in the left panel:
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced - Right-click on Advanced, then choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name this new DWORD value:
PersistBrowsers - Double-click PersistBrowsers and set the value to:
1to turn ON the folder restore feature0to turn OFF the feature
- Click OK and close the Registry Editor.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Summary
- You can easily turn on or off "Restore previous folder windows at logon" from File Explorer Options.
- The Registry Editor method is for advanced users who want more control.
- Always back up your registry or create a restore point before making changes.
- Restart your PC after changing the settings to make sure they take effect.
- Enjoy having your folders open automatically just like you left them!
Users can restore File Explorer windows upon login through the folder options menu. Dedicated administrators can utilize the Registry Editor method instead. Backing up the registry or creating a restore point before making modifications prevents system issues. Restart the computer after applying chosen settings for them to take effect.
How to Use File Explorer in Windows 11
How to Copy Files from a USB Drive in Windows 11
How to Delete Files and Folders in Windows 11
How do I get my File Explorer back?
If the left navigation pane is hidden, restore it. Select Start > File Explorer, or select the File Explorer icon on your taskbar.
How to get old explorer back?
Press Enter. Control Panel will open in File Explorer. Click the up arrow button to locate the old File Explorer. Click here to view the old File Explorer. The view has opened.
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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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