How to Go Back to Old File Explorer in Windows 11
Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, brings a fresh and modern look to the user interface. However, some users may find the new File Explorer less intuitive or prefer the classic layout of older versions. If you’re one of those users, you’ll be glad to know that it’s possible to revert to the old File Explorer in Windows 11. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to go back to the classic File Explorer in Windows 11.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
The first step to revert to the old File Explorer is to open the Settings app. You can do this by clicking on the Start button, then selecting “Settings” from the list of apps.
Step 2: Navigate to Personalization
Once the Settings app is open, click on “Personalization” from the left-hand menu. This section contains various options related to the appearance and behavior of your Windows 11 system.
Step 3: Go to Themes
In the Personalization section, click on “Themes” to expand the menu. Here, you’ll find options to change your theme, color, and sounds.
Step 4: Click on “File Explorer”
Under the “Themes” section, you’ll see an option for “File Explorer.” Click on it to open a new window that allows you to customize the appearance of the File Explorer.
Step 5: Select “Use the classic Windows File Explorer”
In the File Explorer window, you’ll find a toggle switch labeled “Use the classic Windows File Explorer.” By default, this switch is set to “Off,” which means the new File Explorer is being used. To revert to the old File Explorer, simply toggle the switch to “On.”
Step 6: Restart File Explorer
After toggling the switch, you’ll need to restart the File Explorer for the changes to take effect. To do this, press the “Restart now” button in the File Explorer window.
Step 7: Verify the Change
Once the File Explorer has restarted, open it to verify that the classic layout is now being used. You should see the familiar tree view on the left-hand side, with quick access to frequently used folders and drives.
Conclusion
Reverting to the old File Explorer in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be done by anyone. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily switch back to the classic layout and enjoy a more familiar experience. Whether you prefer the new File Explorer or the classic one, Windows 11 gives you the flexibility to choose what works best for you.
