How to Enable or Disable Dev Drive in Windows 11
A Dev Drive in Windows 11 is a special storage space built on the ReFS file system that speeds up file tasks for coding projects by up to 30 percent. Turning on this feature helps keep your work files safe and separate from your everyday downloads.
You can turn a Dev Drive on or off at any time through the Windows Settings app if you run Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education versions. Disabling the feature stops new coding drives from being created, which keeps shared PCs clean and secure.
You can enable or disable Dev Drive in Windows 11 using Windows Terminal, Local Group Policy Editor, or Registry Editor. Open the desired tool as administrator and use the specific commands or settings to turn the feature on or off. Changes may require a restart.
What is Dev Drive?
The Dev Drive in Windows 11 is a special storage area that separates your coding projects from your everyday files. This dedicated space organizes development work and keeps it safe. Turning off the feature prevents unwanted storage areas from appearing and limits the creation of specialized volumes.
How to Turn Dev Drive On or Off
Three methods allow users to enable or disable the Dev Drive feature on Windows 11:
1Using Windows Terminal
Opening Windows Terminal as an administrator provides direct command-line control over the storage feature. Executing specific commands toggles the capability instantly.
To turn on Dev Drive, type this command and press Enter:
fsutil devdrv enableTo turn off Dev Drive, type this command and press Enter:
fsutil devdrv disable2Using Local Group Policy Editor
The Local Group Policy Editor (a built-in tool for managing system configurations) controls whether users can create Dev Drives. Modifying a specific configuration within this interface toggles the feature through a visual menu.
In the editor, navigate to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > FilesystemFind 'Enable dev drive' on the right side and double-click it.
Available configuration options appear on screen:
- Not Configured – This is the default setting.
- Enabled – Allows Dev Drive and lets antivirus work on it.
- Disabled – Stops users from creating new Dev Drives.
Click OK to confirm the selection.
3Using Windows Registry Editor
The Windows Registry Editor offers precise configuration control for advanced users. Navigating to the designated key and modifying specific values enables or disables the storage feature.
Navigate to this folder:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\PoliciesLook for these two values in the right pane:
- FsEnableDevDrive
- FltmgrDevDriveAllowAntivirusFilter
If these values don't exist, right-click an empty space, choose "New" > "DWORD (32-bit) Value," and create both names precisely as shown.
Double-click each one and set the value to:
- 0 to disable Dev Drive.
- 1 to enable Dev Drive.
Close Registry Editor and restart the PC to apply changes.
Summary
Managing Dev Drive in Windows 11 relies on three primary tools: Windows Terminal, Local Group Policy Editor, or the Windows Registry Editor. Selecting a method depends entirely on personal preference and comfort level with each interface. Disabling the feature adds an extra layer of security by blocking the creation of new specialized volumes.
Blocking unwanted special drives helps keep the computer secure, making the adjustment ideal for shared workstations. Administrators and standard users alike can pick whichever workflow suits them best. Windows Terminal delivers the fastest results for command-line users, whereas the policy and registry editors suit those who prefer visual menus.
Feedback and questions are welcome in the comment section below.
How to use dev drive on 🪟 Windows 11?
Utilize an existing empty partition on the disk, or create space by resizing another volume.
How do I enable Dev drive policy?
Navigate to Computer Configuration Administrative Templates System Filesystem and enable the 'Enable dev drive' policy. Note that the optional antivirus filter setting ensures that antivirus protection remains active on Dev Drives, even if local administrators attempt to detach it.
Should I use Dev drive?
Targeting specific configurations helps identify relevant settings faster. Reviewing the official documentation provides additional details regarding Dev Home.
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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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