How To Move The Documents Folder To Another Drive In Windows 11

The Documents folder in Windows 11 is typically used to store important documents, notes, and files.

By default, the Documents folder is located under the Users folder on the drive where Windows 11 is installed.

The problem with the default location of the Documents folder is that all files in the Documents folder are deleted when you reinstall the Windows 11 operating system. So, it’s always a good idea to move the Documents folder to another drive (a drive other than the Windows 11 installation drive) to avoid losing crucial documents during Windows 11 reinstallation.

The team behind Windows 11 knows the importance of the Documents folder. Hence, Windows 11 offers a straightforward option to move the Documents folder to another drive or a location of your choice.

Complete the directions given below to move the Documents folder in Windows 11.

NOTE: Users can also back up the Documents folder to OneDrive using a built-in option in Windows 11.

Move the Documents folder to another drive in Windows 11

Step 1: Open any folder, This PC.

Step 2: Right-click the Documents folder in the left navigation pane and then click Properties to open the Documents Properties dialog.

Step 3: In the dialog, click the Location tab to switch to the same.

Step 4: Here, click the Move button. Select a drive or a location of your choice and then click the Select Folder button.

Step 5: Finally, click the Apply button. Upon clicking the Apply button, a confirmation dialog appears. Click the Yes button to begin moving the Documents folder and the files within to the new location.

Restore the Documents folder to the original location

Step 1: In the File Explorer left pane, right-click the Documents folder, and then click Properties.

Step 2: Under the Location tab, click the Restore Default button. Click Apply.

Click the Yes button when asked for confirmation to restore the Documents folder to its original location.

Can I move the Documents folder to an external drive?

Yes, Windows 11 allows you to move the Documents folder to any location, including an external drive. That said, we recommend moving the Documents folder to an external drive only if the external drive is always connected to your Windows 11 PC.